Odete Amaral

Origin

Niterói, RJ

Years active

1935–1975

Genres

samba, choro, marcha, samba-canção

Biography

Odete Amaral, known as "The Tropical Voice of Brazil", was a Brazilian singer who left her mark on the golden age of radio and Brazilian popular music. Born in Niterói, Rio de Janeiro, on April 28, 1917, she moved with her family to Rio de Janeiro as a child. She started working early as an embroiderer, but her passion for singing led her to audition at Rádio Guanabara in 1935, where she passed with honors. Her powerful voice and graceful interpretations quickly made her stand out in the musical scene of the era.

Her career flourished in the 1930s, 1940s, and 1950s, with stints at several major radio stations such as Rádio Clube do Brasil, Rádio Ipanema, Rádio Nacional, and Rádio Tupi. Odete Amaral also worked in cinema, participating in films like "Bonequinha de Seda" and "Samba em Brasília", as well as in theater. She recorded hits such as the choro "Murmurando", the march "Colibri", and sambas by renowned composers like Ary Barroso, Noel Rosa, and Cartola.

In 1938, she married fellow singer Ciro Monteiro, forming one of the most popular couples in Brazilian music at the time, although they separated in 1949. Odete Amaral continued her career for many years, recording LPs and participating in projects aimed at preserving the memory of Brazilian music, such as the "MPB 100 ao vivo" series. She passed away in Rio de Janeiro on October 11, 1984, leaving a legacy of songs that enchant generations.