Trio Nordestino

Origin

Salvador, BA

Years active

1958

Genres

forro, mpb

Instruments

accordion, zabumba, triangle, vocals, drums

Biography

Trio Nordestino is a legendary Brazilian forró ensemble formed in early 1958 in Salvador, Bahia, originally consisting of Lindú on vocals and accordion, Coroné on zabumba, and Cobrinha on triangle. After relocating to Rio de Janeiro with the help of composer Gordurinha, the group achieved national prominence through radio appearances, notably performing on Rádio Mayrink Veiga where they initially crossed paths with Luiz Gonzaga. Their breakthrough came with hits like Carta a Maceió and Chupando gelo, establishing them as pioneers of traditional forró who later enriched the genre by introducing a second accordion and drums.

Throughout the decades, the group underwent various lineup transitions following the passings of foundational members, yet maintained their core musical mission. Following Lindú's death in 1982, musicians such as Genaro, Beto Souza, and eventually Lindú's son Luís Mário joined the ensemble, ensuring the continuation of their legacy. In 2017, their album Trio Nordestino Canta o Nordeste received a Latin Grammy nomination for Best Portuguese Language Roots Album, cementing their enduring influence alongside contemporaries like Gilberto Gil and Falamansa.

Throughout their long career, Trio Nordestino shared stages and deep musical bonds with monumental figures of Brazilian culture such as Ângela Maria, Dominguinhos, and Nelson Gonçalves. Their ability to bridge traditional roots with widespread commercial appeal allowed them to tour internationally, performing in cities like Paris and London while remaining a cornerstone of Brazilian northeastern music.