Paulo Tapajós

Origin

Rio de Janeiro, RJ

Years active

1927–1990

Genres

mpb, samba, radio music

Instruments

vocals

Biography

Paulo Tapajós Gomes was a multifaceted Brazilian artist born in Rio de Janeiro, where he also built his legacy as a singer, composer, producer, and radio broadcaster. Initially studying design at the Escola Nacional de Belas Artes and music under maestro Lorenzo Fernandes, he established a strong foundation for his artistic journey. In 1927, alongside his brothers Haroldo and Osvaldo, he formed the vocal group Irmãos Tapajós, eventually transitioning into a duo with Haroldo after Osvaldo's departure. Throughout his career, he collaborated with legendary figures of Brazilian culture, notably co-writing pieces with iconic artists like Vinícius de Moraes and Donga.

His contributions to Brazilian radio were monumental. In 1942, he joined Rádio Nacional in Rio de Janeiro as a singer, director, and producer, before moving to Rádio Tupi in 1946 as artistic director. His career was deeply intertwined with the golden age of Brazilian radio and music preservation. He famously recorded with virtuoso Jacob do Bandolim in 1971 for the RCA Victor release Os saraus de Jacob, and later dedicated years to producing and directing the radio program Domingo Musical for Rádio MEC's Projeto Minerva.

Beyond his radio and recording achievements, Paulo Tapajós left a lasting mark on Brazilian television and popular arts. He served as the artistic director for TV Rio and was part of the executive committee for the first Festival Internacional da Canção in 1966. Furthermore, his versatile voice reached diverse audiences through his work dubbing classic Disney animations into Portuguese. He passed away in Rio de Janeiro in 1990, leaving behind a rich legacy that spans broadcasting, composition, and cultural production.