Valdir Lascada

Origin

Salvador, BA

Years active

1979–2019

Genres

samba-reggae, afro-brazilian music, percussion

Instruments

percussion

Biography

Valdir Lascada was a pivotal figure in Brazilian percussion, widely recognized as one of the creators of Samba-Reggae. He passed away on January 1, 2019, at the age of 63, due to complications from diabetes.

Lascada was the first drum master of the Afro-bloc Olodum, a role he held from 1979 to 1982. During his tenure, he was instrumental in translating the reggae rhythm into the timbric context of drums, a groundbreaking innovation that contributed significantly to the development of Samba-Reggae. He is also credited with other innovations in Afro-Bahian rhythms, such as the use of two drumsticks on the surdos de dobra, creating the distinctive "tugu-dugu-dum" sound.

Beyond his work with Olodum, Valdir Lascada also contributed to other notable Afro-blocs and musical groups, including Ilê Aiyê, Os Ritmistas do Samba, and Neto Balla. His legacy as an innovator and a master of percussion continues to influence Brazilian music, particularly the vibrant sounds of Bahia. He was honored for his contributions in 2017 at events like the "Encontro dos Mestres" and a special session at the Municipal Chamber of Salvador.