Teixeirinha

Origin

Rolante, RS

Years active

1959–1985

Genres

música gaúcha, sertanejo, folksong

Instruments

vocals, acoustic guitar

Biography

Vítor Mateus Teixeira, known artistically as Teixeirinha, was a legendary Brazilian singer, songwriter, radio broadcaster, and filmmaker, born in Rolante, Rio Grande do Sul. Rising from a humble and tragic childhood where he lost both parents at a young age, he persevered through odd jobs before breaking into regional radio and eventually becoming one of the most commercially successful recording artists in Brazilian history. His poignant musical style became a cornerstone of traditional gaúcho music and Brazilian roots culture, highlighted by his iconic autobiographical masterpiece "Coração de Luto".

Throughout his prolific career, Teixeirinha released over fifty albums, composed approximately 1,200 songs, and achieved unprecedented record sales, earning numerous gold records and the title of "Rei do Disco". He toured extensively across Brazil and internationally, taking his regional sound to countries in South America, Europe, and North America. In addition to his musical legacy, he made significant contributions as a pioneer of regional cinema through his own production company, starring in and producing multiple feature films based on his songs, while also maintaining a prominent presence on radio programs.

Teixeirinha's personal and professional life was marked by both massive popularity and intense critical controversy, including his legendary partnership and eventual separation with accordionist Mary Terezinha. Despite facing harsh dismissal from certain cultural elites of his era, he remained steadfastly devoted to his massive working-class audience until his passing in Porto Alegre in 1985. His immense cultural impact continues to resonate alongside other rural and regional luminaries like Milionário e José Rico, leaving an enduring mark on the heritage of Brazilian folk music.