Totonho & Os Cabra

Origin

Monteiro, PB

Years active

1996

Genres

funk, hip hop, embolada, samba, rap, MPB, electronic, folk, world music, country

Instruments

vocals, guitar, bass, drums, synthesizer, cavaquinho, viola, rabeca

Biography

Totonho & Os Cabra is a Brazilian musical project led by singer-songwriter Carlos Antonio Bezerra da Silva, known as Totonho. Hailing from Monteiro in the Paraíba region of Brazil, Totonho's musical journey began in his childhood, surrounded by virtuoso accordionists, improvisational poets, and popular singers. This early exposure instilled in him a deep appreciation for the art of sung poetry, particularly the traditional Northeastern Brazilian forms like repente and embolada. His music is characterized by a unique fusion of traditional Brazilian rhythms with contemporary genres such as funk and hip-hop, creating a sound that is both rooted in the past and forward-looking. Totonho's lyrical prowess and his ability to seamlessly blend diverse musical elements have earned him recognition as a distinctive voice in Brazilian music. He has performed internationally in countries like Ukraine, Belgium, Russia, Guatemala, France, and Portugal.

The project Totonho & Os Cabra officially formed in 1996 after Totonho opened shows for established artists like Geraldo Azevedo and João Bosco. His musical career gained momentum through participation in initiatives like the "Projeto Pixinguinha," which led to a tour across seven Brazilian capitals in 1997. Totonho's innovative approach to music, often described as "funk de embolada" or "hip hop do mato," challenges conventional genre boundaries. His 2018 album, "Samba Luzia Gorda," and the 2025 release, "Aí dentu: Funk de Embolada e Hip Hop do Mato," exemplify this fusion, incorporating elements of Northeastern music with samba, funk, and rap. The latter album even garnered him the "Prêmio da Música Brasileira" in 2026 for "Best Funk Release." Totonho's work often reflects social commentary and a deep connection to his cultural roots.

Totonho's artistic vision extends beyond music production. He has been involved in social projects, including the NGO "Projeto Ex-Cola," which offered art workshops in Rio de Janeiro. His early musical endeavors included forming a band called "Os Renegados" at the age of nine, playing instruments made from cans, and later co-founding the "Musiclube da Paraíba" in João Pessoa, a cooperative for composers that included artists like Chico César. This rich background in both artistic innovation and community engagement underscores Totonho's multifaceted contribution to Brazilian culture. His unique sound and lyrical depth have also inspired other artists, such as Lucas Bezerra, who dedicated an album to Totonho's songbook.