Patrício Teixeira

Origin

Rio de Janeiro, RJ

Years Active

1918–1972

Genres

samba, modinha, lundu, valsa, choro

Instruments

violão, voz

Biography

Patrício Teixeira was a central figure in the consolidation of samba and Brazilian popular music in the first half of the 20th century. Born in the Praça Onze region of Rio de Janeiro, he grew up amidst the cradles of Rio samba, beginning his musical journey in serenades through the neighborhoods of Vila Isabel and downtown. Recognized for his smooth voice and skill on the acoustic guitar (violão), he specialized in traditional genres such as modinhas, lundus, and waltzes, in addition to being a prominent interpreter of the Brazilian folkloric songbook.

His professional career gained momentum starting in the 1920s, when he became one of the pioneers of the radio era in Brazil, performing on stations such as Rádio Clube do Brasil and Mayrink Veiga. Patrício collaborated with giants of Brazilian music, such as Pixinguinha, Donga, and the group Os Oito Batutas. He recorded memorable hits for various record labels, including "Gavião Calçudo" and the famous "Não tenho lágrimas," which decades later would be featured in the soundtrack of Martin Scorsese's film "Raging Bull." In addition to his solo work, he recorded important duets with names like Carmen Miranda and Francisco Alves.

Besides being a performer, Patrício Teixeira played a fundamental role as a music educator. He worked as an acoustic guitar teacher for several personalities who would later shine on the national scene, such as Aurora Miranda, Linda Batista, and the future precursor of bossa nova, Nara Leão. His contribution to Brazilian music spans generations, bridging the tradition of the early-century chorões with the training of new talents who would renew MPB.

Discography

• Não Tenho Lagrimas / Sabia Larangeira (1937)
• Fui Eu / Uma Festa de Nanan (1941)