Rodrigo Carvalho

Origin

Rio de Janeiro, RJ

Also known as

Biro

Years Active

1990s

Genres

samba, MPB

Instruments

vocals

Biography

Rodrigo Carvalho Oliveira, widely known as Biro, is a Brazilian singer and composer born in Rio de Janeiro. He is recognized for his significant contributions to samba music, having founded and served as the ex-vocalist for Galocantô, a prominent samba group from Rio de Janeiro that emerged in the late 1990s. Galocantô released two CDs and received nominations for the "Prêmio da Música Brasileira" (Brazilian Music Award).

Carvalho's musical journey began in the vibrant samba circles of Lapa and Madureira. He started his professional career in the 1990s as a backing vocalist for the renowned samba singer Beth Carvalho, participating in her recordings and shows. His talent also led him to interpret samba-enredo themes for samba schools like Império Serrano, where he achieved a championship with Arlindo Cruz, and Vila Isabel, with Moacyr Luz. He also reached the finals as a composer for the Beija-Flor samba school with the song "Fina Batucata," co-written with Fred Camacho.

As a solo artist, Rodrigo Carvalho released his first solo album in 2017, which was produced under the musical direction of guitarist João de Aquino and artistic direction of Túlio Feliciano. The album features his own compositions, such as "Menina-luz" (with Fred Camacho) and "Pra casa não cair" (with João Martins), alongside interpretations of works by other important samba artists like Pixinguinha, Zeca Pagodinho, and Martinho da Vila. His work is characterized by a contemporary approach to traditional samba, honoring its roots while exploring new artistic avenues.