The Snakes

Origin

Rio de Janeiro, RJ

Years Active

1958

Genres

rock, twist

Instruments

vocals, guitar, bass, drums, organ

Biography

The Snakes was a rock band formed in 1958 in Rio de Janeiro. Initially named "The Boys of Rock", the group changed its name to The Snakes at the suggestion of Carlos Imperial. The founding members included Arlênio Lívio and Erasmo Carlos on vocals, and Edson Trindade and José Roberto (known as China) on instruments.

The band made its television debut that same year on Chacrinha's show "Rancho Alegre". Signed to the Mocambo record label, they released their first single in 1960, featuring the songs "Para Sempre" and "Namorando". During the same period, they participated in radio and TV programs such as "Os Brotos Comandam" and "Festival de Brotos". In 1961, they released a 7-inch single with "Adolescente Enamorado", composed by Roberto Carlos and Erasmo Carlos, and "Brotos Na Cidade".

In 1962, through the Columbia record label and with arrangements by Astor's orchestra, they released the LP "Só Twist: The Snakes", exploring the popular twist genre. The band is remembered as an early milestone in Brazilian rock, paving the way for future generations of artists, including Erasmo Carlos himself, who would go on to have a highly successful solo career. Although another band named "The Snakes" emerged in Florianópolis in 1963, the original Rio de Janeiro lineup is recognized for its pioneering contribution.

Discography

• Once Bitten... (1998)
• Bernie Marsden & Micky Moody, The Snakes – Live In Europe (1998)
• Once Bitten... Outtakes (2017)