Owerá

Origin

São Paulo, SP

Years active

2014

Genres

hip hop, rap, indigenous music, mpb

Instruments

vocals

Biography

Owerá is an indigenous Guarani Mbyá musician from the Krukutu village, located in the southern part of São Paulo, Brazil. He is known for blending traditional Guarani music and culture with contemporary hip-hop, a style he refers to as "native rap." Owerá uses his music as a platform to advocate for indigenous rights, environmental preservation, and cultural awareness, aiming to share his people's knowledge and reality with a global audience. He began his musical journey in 2014, initially rapping in Portuguese before delving into his native Guarani language, finding it a more powerful medium for his message.

His work often addresses the challenges faced by indigenous communities, including land demarcation issues and the historical disrespect and prejudice encountered since the arrival of Europeans in Brazil. Owerá's artistic endeavors are deeply rooted in his ancestral heritage, seeking to strengthen indigenous identity and resilience through his rhymes. He has collaborated with artists like Pará Retê and has received support from initiatives like Natura Musical, which helped in the production of his music, including his album "Mbaraeté," meaning resistance.

Owerá's commitment to his roots and his innovative approach to music have gained him recognition. He participated in the São Paulo carnival parade with the samba school Vai-Vai, representing the Guarani people and the hip-hop culture. This experience highlighted his role as a cultural bridge, bringing indigenous voices and perspectives to mainstream events. His music serves as a testament to the enduring strength and adaptability of indigenous cultures in the modern world, proving that tradition and contemporary expression can coexist powerfully.