Preto Joia

Origin

Rio de Janeiro, RJ

Years Active

1985

Genres

samba-enredo, samba

Instruments

voice

Biography

Amauri Bonifácio de Paula, artistically known as Preto Joia, was born in Rio de Janeiro on October 30, 1957. Established as one of the great names of Brazilian Carnival, he stood out both as a songwriter and a samba-enredo interpreter, building a striking trajectory linked to traditional samba schools, especially Imperatriz Leopoldinense. Throughout his career in samba, he shared stages and important moments with other great names of the revelry, such as Dominguinhos do Estácio and Wander Pires.

His history at Imperatriz began in the songwriters' wing, reaching the position of main interpreter and winning prestigious awards, such as the Golden Standard (Estandarte de Ouro) for best samba-enredo in 1989 for the classic "Liberdade, Liberdade, Abra as Asas Sobre Nós" and for best interpreter in 1993. In addition to his strong performance in the Rio Carnival, with stints at associations such as Porto da Pedra, Tradição, and Acadêmicos do Cubango, he also took his talent to the São Paulo Carnival and dedicated himself to creating political jingles and social projects aimed at children and adolescents.

Discography

• G.R.E.S. em Cima da Hora Interprete Preto Jóia – Elymar, o Sonho que Virou Canção (1991)
• Alexandre, Grupo Fundo de Quintal, Niltinho Tristeza, Preto Jóia, Rixa, Toninho Professor, Zé Catimba e Inácio – Imperatriz (1993)