Primo Preto

Origin

São Paulo, SP

Years active

1993

Genres

rap, hip hop, funk

Biography

Paulo Brandão, better known as Primo Preto, is a multifaceted figure in the Brazilian music scene, with a career spanning music production, television presenting, and work as a vocalist. Born in São Paulo, he gained notoriety in the 1990s, in part for being the half-brother of musician Branco Mello, from Titãs, which earned him the nickname "Primo Preto do irmão Branco" (Black Cousin of the white brother). His music career gained momentum when he became the presenter of the Brazilian version of the show "Yo! MTV Raps," a milestone for the promotion of hip-hop in the country.

Primo Preto is also known for his work as the vocalist of the band SP Funk, a rap group that released their first album through the Velas record label. His foray into the hip-hop universe began early, when he worked as an intern at MTV in 1993, going through various roles until becoming the presenter of "Yo! MTV Raps." He showed an interest in artists like Dr. Dre, Ice Cube, Eazy-E, and national acts Racionais MC's and Thaíde, consolidating his taste for rap.

In addition to his direct involvement in music, Primo Preto has played an important role as a cultural and event producer. He has been involved in the production of national and international rap events, and his participation in recording statistics on racism in Brazil for the song "Capítulo 4, Versículo 3" by Racionais MC's, on "Sobrevivendo no Inferno" (1997), is a landmark moment in his career and in Brazilian music. His production company, RapSoulFunk, has been instrumental in organizing shows and promoting artists of the genre.