Tony Campello

Origin

São Paulo, SP

Also known as

Sergio Benelli Campello, Tony Campelo

Years Active

1950

Genres

rock and roll, jovem guarda, pop

Instruments

vocals, piano, guitar

Biography

Tony Campello, born Sergio Benelli Campello in São Paulo, emerged as one of the pioneering figures of early Brazilian rock and roll alongside his sister Celly Campello. Raised in Taubaté where he studied piano and guitar, he began his musical journey playing in dance bands before joining accordionist Mário Gennari Filho's ensemble. His professional breakthrough came in 1958 with the release of his debut 78 rpm record on Odeon, featuring the rock-ballad "Perdoa-me", which launched both his and his sister's legendary recording careers.

Throughout the late 1950s and 1960s, Tony became a youth idol, co-hosting the popular television program "Celly e Tony em Hi-Fi" on TV Record and starring in films such as "Jeca Tatu" and "Zé do Periquito". He earned the prestigious Chico Viola trophy twice, in 1962 and 1963, and was a frequent guest on the iconic Jovem Guarda television show. Beyond his performance career, Tony established a successful behind-the-scenes presence as a music producer for major labels like RCA and Odeon, where he played a pivotal role in launching and shaping the careers of numerous national artists.

His enduring legacy in Brazilian popular culture was celebrated in the biographical film "Um Broto Legal" (2022), in which he was portrayed by actor and singer Murilo Armacollo. Alongside contemporaries like Roberto Carlos, Tony Campello helped lay the groundwork for modern Brazilian youth music, transitioning seamlessly from teen idol to influential record producer.

Discography

• Rock Around The Girls (1959)
• Baby Rock! (1960)
• Tony Campello Carlos Piper e Seu Conjunto (1961)
• Não Te Esqueças de Mim (1963)