Ronaldo Viola e João Carvalho

Origin

São Paulo, SP

Years Active

1978–2001

Genres

sertanejo, música caipira

Instruments

viola caipira, violão, vocal

Biography

Ronaldo Viola e João Carvalho were a Brazilian sertanejo duo formed in 1978. Ronaldo Carandina, known as Ronaldo Viola, was born in São Paulo, SP, on March 25, 1962. He began learning the viola caipira at the age of nine. João Carvalho was born in Taiúva, SP, and worked on his family's farm, growing up listening to sertanejo music. The duo's artistic career began after winning a sertanejo music festival sponsored by the state government of São Paulo.

Their first album, "Cheiro do Povão," was released in 1980 with the support of producer Téo Azevedo. They were known for their "raiz" (root) style, drawing inspiration from the legendary duo Tião Carreiro e Pardinho. Throughout their career, Ronaldo Viola and João Carvalho recorded approximately 12 albums, with notable hits including "Sinal Vermelho" and "Chuva na Vidraça." They were recognized for their vocal harmonies and performances that blended music, humor, and theater.

The duo's active career spanned nearly two decades, and they disbanded in 2001. Following the duo's separation, Ronaldo Viola formed a new partnership with Praiano, while João Carvalho collaborated with other artists. Ronaldo Viola passed away on July 14, 2004, and João Carvalho died on July 24, 2021.

Discography

• Sinal Vermelho (1981)
• Missão de Cantador (1985)
• Vol. 4 (1993)
• Vol. 5 (1994)
• Prisioneiro (1998)
• Duelo de Paixão (2002)
• Cheiro do Povo (2011)
• A História Continua (2020)
• Boa Sorte (2022)
• Rústico de Verdade (2025)