Risadinha

Origin

São Paulo, SP

Also known as

Francisco Ferraz Neto, Francisco Neto

Years Active

1937–1976

Genres

samba, samba-choro, samba-maxixe, choro, maxixe, marchinha

Instruments

voice

Biography

Francisco Ferraz Neto, artistically known as Risadinha, was a Brazilian singer and songwriter who made his mark on Brazilian popular music, especially in the genres of samba, samba-choro, samba-maxixe, choro, and maxixe. Born in São Paulo on March 18, 1921, Risadinha had a multifaceted career, having worked as a typist and taxi driver before dedicating himself entirely to music. His artistic journey began on São Paulo radio stations such as Cruzeiro do Sul and Tupi, and later consolidated in Rio de Janeiro, where he performed on broadcasters like Rádio Globo and Rádio Nacional.

Risadinha's big breakthrough came in 1953 with the samba "Se Eu Errei", a partnership with Humberto de Carvalho and Edu Rocha, which became his trademark and one of the biggest hits of that year's carnival, remembered for many years. This song launched him nationally and solidified his career as an important name in samba and carnival. Throughout his career, he released several LPs and singles through record labels like Odeon and Continental, exploring his versatility across different rhythms.

Risadinha passed away in Rio de Janeiro on June 3, 1976, at the age of 55. His contribution to Brazilian music, especially to samba and carnival, left a lasting legacy. His work is a faithful portrait of an era and a musical style that soundtracked many carnivals and parties across the country, and he is remembered as an authentic carnival sambista.

Discography

• Amor ao Samba (2025)