Sirlan Antônio de Jesus

Origin

Belo Horizonte, MG

Also known as

Sirlan

Years Active

1960s

Genres

MPB, brazilian popular music

Instruments

drums, vocals

Biography

Sirlan Antônio de Jesus, known artistically as Sirlan, was born in Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, in 1951. His musical career began in the 1960s, actively participating in his hometown's cultural scene as a singer and drummer. At that time, he was a member of groups such as Jazz Minas Bossa, Os Barranqueiros, and Os Turbulentos, in addition to performing on radio and television programs and at dances throughout the state. His career, however, was marked by severe repression during the Brazilian military regime.

The high point of his initial recognition was the song "Viva Zapátria", composed in partnership with Murilo Antunes and presented at the VII International Song Festival (FIC) in 1972. The track, which alluded to the Mexican leader Emiliano Zapata and the lack of freedom, was censored, as were other compositions by Sirlan. Although it was cleared for the festival and recorded by MPB-4, the censors' persecution prevented Sirlan from recording his own album with Som Livre, resulting in the cancellation of his contract. This situation led to comparisons with Geraldo Vandré, another artist who suffered under the dictatorship.

After years of difficulties in getting his work approved, Sirlan managed to release his first LP, "Profissão de Fé", in 1979 through the Continental record label. The album featured important partnerships, such as those with Fernando Brant and Murilo Antunes, and guest appearances by artists like MPB-4 and Wagner Tiso. Despite having participated in albums by colleagues such as Milton Nascimento and Lô Borges, censorship practically halted the development of his career as a solo artist, leading him to compose jingles later on. Sirlan is considered an important name in Brazilian music, especially for his artistic resistance during a period of intense repression.

Discography

• Profissão de Fé (1979)