Rique Pantoja

Origin

Rio de Janeiro, RJ

Years active

1980

Genres

jazz, instrumental music, mpb

Instruments

piano, keyboards

Biography

Rique Pantoja is a renowned Brazilian musician, arranger, pianist, and composer who was also one of the original creators of the instrumental group Cama de Gato. Born in Rio de Janeiro, he built a versatile career collaborating with iconic figures of Brazilian popular music such as Chico Buarque, Gilberto Gil, Milton Nascimento, and Ivan Lins. His distinct musical sensibility allowed him to bridge Brazilian jazz and fusion with international sounds, leading to notable cross-cultural collaborations.

Throughout his expansive career, Pantoja has worked with a remarkable array of international and domestic legends, including a historic collaboration with jazz trumpeter Chet Baker. He participated in recording sessions and performances that spanned multiple continents, eventually settling in Los Angeles where he became widely sought after within the music industry, film scoring, and advertising. His artistic trajectory showcases a deep mastery of piano and keyboard arrangements that cemented his reputation across diverse musical landscapes alongside peers like Djavan, Gal Costa, and Caetano Veloso.

In addition to his studio work and soundtrack contributions, Pantoja has released celebrated projects like the critically acclaimed album Cinema 1 and the live recording Live in L.A. His ability to blend sophisticated Brazilian harmonies with jazz improvisation placed him alongside other influential instrumentalists and groups in the Brazilian scene. He remains a respected figure in contemporary Latin and jazz fusion circles.