Tiao do Carro

Origin

Vargem Grande do Sul, SP

Also known as

João Benedito Urbano

Years Active

1954–2009

Genres

country music, Brazilian country music, moda de viola

Instruments

viola caipira

Biography

João Benedito Urbano, better known as Tião do Carro, was an influential Brazilian viola player, composer, and singer, born in Vargem Grande do Sul, in the interior of São Paulo, on January 17, 1946. His musical career had an early start, at age 6, when he formed the duo "Foguetinho" with "Faisquinha". By age 8, he was already participating in radio programs, such as "Na Fazenda do Boqueirão", on Rádio Difusora de São João da Boa Vista. His journey led him to Campinas, where he joined the duo "João e Joca" and participated in the "Rivail" program for five years. It was at age 20 that he adopted the artistic name "Tião do Carro", establishing himself as one of the great names in traditional country music.

Throughout his career, Tião do Carro formed several successful duos, including Mulatinho, with whom he recorded the LPs "Na Boca dos Leões" and "Nem Carro, Nem Boiada". After Mulatinho's passing, he formed a lasting partnership with Pagodinho, recording several albums and participating in TV programs such as "Viola, Minha Viola". He also worked in the studio, playing the viola caipira on recordings by renowned artists such as Tião Carreiro and Rolando Boldrin, being recognized for his refined technique and the creation of memorable picking patterns.

Tião do Carro also collaborated with other artists, such as Jackson Antunes, and formed a duo with Santarém, releasing the CD "Espada Azul". His last partnership was with Santarém, with whom he recorded the CD "Espada Azul". Unfortunately, Tião do Carro passed away on February 28, 2009, in Campinas, victim of a heart attack, leaving an inestimable legacy for Brazilian country music. His work is marked by authenticity, the preservation of tradition, and mastery in the execution of the viola caipira.

Discography

• Uma Viola na Saudade (1980)