Ronie Mesquita

Origin

Salvador, BA

Also known as

Ronald Ventura de Mesquita, Ronald Mesquita, Ronnie Mesquita, Roberto "Ronnie" Mesquita, Ronald De Mesquita, Ronie, Ronnie, Ronnie (Roberto Ronal De Mesquita)

Years Active

1960

Genres

bossa nova, jazz fusion, samba soul, funk

Instruments

drums, percussion

Biography

Ronie Mesquita, born Ronald Ventura de Mesquita on March 28, 1941, is a highly respected Brazilian drummer and percussionist. He began his musical journey in Rio de Janeiro, teaching himself to play the drums at the age of 15. In the early 1960s, he founded the Ronies Quintet, performing alongside notable musicians like Tenório Jr. and Marcio Cintra. Mesquita's career gained significant momentum when he joined Bossa Três from 1965 to 1967, a pivotal period in Brazilian music.

His international career took flight when he moved to Los Angeles with members of Bossa Três, forming Bossa Rio and collaborating with artists like Leny Andrade and Manfredo Fest. He also recorded the album "Fantasy" with Bola Sete during his time in the United States. In 1974, Mesquita released his solo album "Ronald Mesquita e Central do Brasil" in Paris, showcasing his unique blend of Brazilian rhythms with funk and soul influences, reminiscent of João Donato's work.

Upon returning to Brazil in the early 1970s, Mesquita formed "Ronie E A Central Do Brasil," a project that allowed him to explore a fusion of genres. He has also been involved in the re-formation of Bossa Três in later years. Beyond his musical endeavors, Mesquita has also established himself in the art world, opening the Estúdio Guanabara, an art gallery specializing in the aesthetics of the 1950s and 1960s. His contributions to Brazilian music, particularly in the bossa nova and jazz fusion scenes, have cemented his legacy as a versatile and influential artist.

Discography

• Bresil 72 (1972)
• Ronie & Central Do Brasil (1975)