Roberto do Espírito Santo

Origin

Cachoeiro de Itapemirim, ES

Years Active

1959–presente

Genres

MPB, iê-iê-iê, soul, funk, rhythm and blues, rock and roll, pop rock

Instruments

vocals, acoustic guitar, piano, electric guitar, harmonica

Biography

Roberto Carlos Braga, known worldwide as Roberto Carlos, was born in Cachoeiro de Itapemirim, in Espírito Santo, on April 19, 1941. He is one of the most influential and commercially successful artists in the history of Brazilian music, frequently called "The King". His career spans over seven decades, cementing him as a central figure in the country's musical scene.

A key figure of the Jovem Guarda cultural movement, Roberto Carlos is widely credited for popularizing rock in Brazil and for introducing international genres such as beat, soul, and funk to national music. He began his career in the late 1950s, influenced by samba-canção and bossa nova. He formed the band The Sputniks with Tim Maia and later, alongside Erasmo Carlos, his most frequent songwriting partner, laid the foundations of Brazilian rock. The television show "Jovem Guarda", starring him, Erasmo Carlos, and Wanderléa, marked an era in Brazilian television.

Throughout his career, Roberto Carlos has explored various musical genres, including MPB, iê-iê-iê, soul, funk, rhythm and blues, rock and roll, and pop rock. He has played and composed with numerous renowned artists, both national and international, and his work continues to inspire new generations of musicians. His residence in Cachoeiro de Itapemirim now houses a museum in his honor, perpetuating his legacy for the public.