Wilson Moreira

Origin

Rio de Janeiro, RJ

Also known as

Wilson Moreira Serra

Years Active

1955–2018

Genres

samba, partido alto, MPB

Instruments

vocals, percussion

Biography

Wilson Moreira was a prominent Brazilian singer and composer born in Rio de Janeiro on December 12, 1936. Growing up in the neighborhood of Realengo, he was exposed to traditional African-Brazilian rhythms through his grandparents and uncles, who were jongueiros and caxambu players. Before establishing himself as a master of samba, he worked various jobs, including prison guard and shoeshine boy, while developing a deep passion for the genre.

In 1955, Moreira co-founded the composer's wing of the Mocidade Independente de Padre Miguel samba school, writing his first successful carnival theme, "Bahia." He later moved to the Portela samba school in 1968, where he collaborated with legendary figures such as Paulinho da Viola and Candeia. His profound talent as a lyricist led to his compositions being recorded by iconic interpreters like Beth Carvalho, Alcione, Clara Nunes, and Elizeth Cardoso, establishing him as a pillar of traditional samba.

Throughout his career, Moreira formed one of the most celebrated songwriting partnerships in samba history with Nei Lopes, resulting in landmark albums like "A Arte Negra de Wilson Moreira e Nei Lopes." His extensive body of work also featured collaborations and interpretations by esteemed artists such as Zeca Pagodinho and Martinho da Vila. Moreira passed away in Rio de Janeiro on September 7, 2018, leaving behind an enduring legacy in Brazilian popular music.

Discography

• A Arte Negra de Wilson Moreira e Nei Lopes (1980)
• O Partido Muito! Alto de Wilson Moreira & Nei Lopes (1985)
• Peso na Balança (1986)
• Okolofé (1999)
• Entidades I (2002)
• Wilson Moreira + Baticun 1991-2011 (2011)
• Tá com Medo, Tabaréu? (2018)