Nhocuné Soul

Origin

São Paulo, SP

Years Active

1998

Genres

samba rock, soul, funk, rap, samba, MPB

Instruments

percussion, vocals, bass, guitar, acoustic guitar, drums

Biography

Nhocuné Soul is a Brazilian band formed in the 1990s in the Vila Nhocuné neighborhood, in the East Zone of São Paulo. The band's name is a tribute to the neighborhood and the history of resistance of its residents, reflecting the origin of the name from the corruption "nhonhocuné" of "Senhor Coronel" (Lord Colonel), a term used by enslaved people and their descendants to refer to former landowners. The band emerged with the proposal to transform the stigmatized reality of the neighborhood into art, rescuing local self-esteem and giving a voice to the experiences of the periphery.

The sound of Nhocuné Soul is a rich fusion of Brazilian rhythms like samba, with influences from soul, funk, rock, and rap. Their lyrics address relevant social themes, such as life in the periphery, racial prejudice, the lack of prospects for youth, and housing issues, without leaving aside love and everyday life. The band has released albums such as "Samba Rap Periférico" (2003), "Amando e Sambando" (2008), and "Banzo", and has collaborated with artists like Oswaldinho da Cuíca, Anelis Assumpção, and Simone Julian. The band's lineup over the years has included musicians such as Jhony Guima, Juninho Batucada, Ronaldo Gama, Luiz Couto, Renato Gama, and Leonardo Carvalho.

With a trajectory of over 15 years, Nhocuné Soul has consolidated itself in the São Paulo and Brazilian music scene, participating in important projects such as the "Projeto Quinta do Samba Rock" and the "IV Encontro Estéticas das Periferias". The band also stands out for its strong connection to black culture and its performances in public spaces, such as the Centro Cultural São Paulo. The work of Nhocuné Soul is recognized for its authenticity, social engagement, and ability to translate the pains and joys of peripheral life into danceable and poetic music, influencing artists like Renato Gama, one of the band's founders.

Discography

• Samba Rap Periférico - Coisa de Familia (2003)
• Amando e sambando (2009)
• Banzo (2026)