Os Originais do Samba

Origin

Rio de Janeiro, RJ

Also known as

Originais do Samba

Years active

1960–present

Genres

samba, samba-rock

Instruments

reco-reco, cuíca, tamborim, surdo, pandeiro, ganzá

Biography

Os Originais do Samba is a renowned Brazilian musical group formed in the 1960s in Rio de Janeiro by percussionists and rhythmists from samba schools. Originally established under the name Os Sete Modernos do Samba before adopting their definitive moniker in 1961, the ensemble became celebrated for their unique blend of sophisticated unison singing, matching stage outfits, and a healthy dose of humor. Their early career gained massive momentum when they accompanied Elis Regina in 1968 to perform the winning song Lapinha at the I Bienal do Samba, composed by Baden Powell and P.C. Pinheiro.

Throughout the 1970s, the group achieved widespread commercial success and critical acclaim, releasing a string of hit records and earning gold albums with the help of prominent collaborations and songs gifted by artists like Jorge Ben. One of their most famous and charismatic members was Mussum, who later achieved legendary status as part of the comedy quartet Os Trapalhões alongside Didi, Dedé, and Zacarias. Mussum eventually stepped away from the band in 1979 to fully dedicate himself to his comedy career, though the group continued to record and perform through subsequent decades.

Over the years, Os Originais do Samba collaborated with numerous giants of Brazilian popular music, including Vinicius de Moraes and Jair Rodrigues, and broke international barriers by becoming the first samba group to perform at the Olympia in Paris. Their enduring legacy bridges traditional samba and samba-rock, inspiring generations of musicians and maintaining a vibrant presence in Brazilian culture through continuous renewals of their lineup and artistic projects.