Nilo Chagas

Origin

Barra do Piraí, RJ

Years active

1935–1952

Genres

samba, marchinha, bossa nova

Instruments

vocals

Biography

Nilo Chagas was a Brazilian singer who rose to prominence in the 1930s as a member of the vocal group Trio de Ouro. Born in Barra do Piraí, Rio de Janeiro, in 1917, Chagas began his musical career in the mid-1930s.

In 1935, he gained fame by replacing Francisco Sena in the duo Preto e Branco, partnering with Herivelto Martins. The duo evolved into a trio in 1936 with the addition of Dalva de Oliveira, and by 1938, they were known as Trio de Ouro. This formation became one of the most successful vocal groups in Brazilian popular music, known for their harmonious arrangements and popular songs.

Chagas remained with Trio de Ouro until 1952, when he, along with Noemi Cavalcanti (who had replaced Dalva de Oliveira in 1950), left the group. He passed away in Rio de Janeiro in 1973. His legacy is primarily tied to his work with Trio de Ouro, contributing to a significant era of Brazilian vocal music.