Ubirany Félix do Nascimento

Origin

Rio de Janeiro, RJ

Also known as

Ubirany

Years active

1970s–2020

Genres

samba, pagode

Instruments

vocal, repique de mão, tamborim

Biography

Ubirany Félix do Nascimento, widely known as Ubirany, was a pivotal figure in Brazilian samba music. Born in Rio de Janeiro on May 16, 1940, he was a composer, singer, and instrumentalist who left an indelible mark on the genre. Ubirany is most celebrated as one of the founders of the influential samba group Fundo de Quintal and the Cacique de Ramos carnival block. His innovative spirit led him to create and popularize the "repique de mão" (hand-played repique), a percussive instrument that became a signature sound of Fundo de Quintal and significantly altered the sonic landscape of samba and pagode.

His musical journey began in the vibrant samba circles of Rio de Janeiro, particularly within the Cacique de Ramos community. It was here, in the 1970s, that Fundo de Quintal began to take shape, evolving from informal gatherings into one of Brazil's most important samba ensembles. Ubirany's unique approach to the repique de mão, characterized by its subtle yet driving rhythm, added a new dimension to samba, influencing countless musicians and solidifying the group's innovative sound. The group's association with the legendary samba singer Beth Carvalho was instrumental in bringing their music to a wider audience.

Ubirany's contributions extended beyond his instrumental prowess. As a composer, he penned songs that became part of the samba repertoire. His dedication to the music and his role in shaping the sound of Fundo de Quintal cemented his legacy as a master of samba. He passed away on December 11, 2020, due to complications from COVID-19, leaving behind a rich musical heritage that continues to inspire and resonate within Brazilian music.