Raul Marques

Origin

Rio de Janeiro, RJ

Also known as

Raul Gonçalves Marques, Edgar Freitas

Years Active

1930–1963

Genres

samba, urban samba

Instruments

percussion

Biography

Raul Gonçalves Marques, known artistically as Raul Marques, was a notable Brazilian composer, instrumentalist, and percussionist, born in Rio de Janeiro on August 24, 1913. From an early age, he frequented the samba circles in the neighborhood of Saúde, where he grew up, immersing himself in the universe of urban carioca samba. His musical career began around 1930 when he started composing, and his first samba, "O amor que não morreu", was recorded in 1934 by Arnaldo Amaral. Marques was also involved with carnival, acting as a harmony director in samba schools such as Unidos da Saúde and União Barão de Gamboa.

Throughout his career, Raul Marques stood out as one of the most sought-after rhythmists for accompaniments in recordings by various artists. He participated in ensembles such as "Os Ritmistas" and "Os Poetas da Voz". His skill with percussion instruments made him an important figure in the musical scene of the time. Among his hits as a composer, "Risoleta" (with Moacir Bernardino), recorded by Luís Barbosa in 1937, and "Reconciliação" (with Agenor Madureira and José Rosas), which became a hit in 1959, stand out. He also collaborated with other important names, such as Monsueto on "Retrato do Cabral".

Raul Marques passed away on September 6, 1991, leaving a significant legacy for samba and Brazilian popular music. His work, which spans sambas and other genres, continues to be recorded and revisited by artists and researchers, solidifying his importance as one of the pioneers and great names of carioca samba. His contribution to Brazilian music is marked by his versatility as an instrumentalist and the quality of his compositions.