Wilson Simoninha

Origin

Rio de Janeiro, RJ

Also known as

Wilson Simonal Pugliesi de Castro

Years active

1999

Genres

mpb, samba, pop, soul

Instruments

vocals

Biography

Wilson Simoninha is a Brazilian musician, singer, composer, producer, and musical director born in Rio de Janeiro. As the son of the legendary Wilson Simonal, music has been a constant presence throughout his life, shaping a diverse and successful career across multiple areas of the entertainment industry. He has toured internationally across the United States, Europe, and Asia, while also building a solid reputation through his solo recordings and collaborative endeavors like O Baile do Simonal and Os Filhos dos Caras.

Beyond his performing career, Simoninha has made significant contributions behind the scenes as a producer and entrepreneur. In the year 2000, he served as artistic director for the independent record label Trama. He also co-founded the music production company S de Samba alongside Jair Oliveira, creating prominent commercial jingles for major brands like Itaú and Fiat, which earned accolades at international events such as the Cannes Lions festival. Furthermore, he and his brother Max de Castro received a Kikito award at the Gramado Festival for the soundtrack of the biographical film Simonal, which chronicled their family's history.

Simoninha's extensive involvement in Brazilian culture also extends to television and major live events, including serving as musical director for Domingão do Faustão and performing multiple times at Rock in Rio. In his ongoing artistic pursuits, he has continued to innovate, collaborating with renowned acts like Jorge Ben Jor, Maria Rita, and Gilberto Gil, and maintaining active creative projects during periods of social isolation. Through his multifaceted work, he remains a vital figure in contemporary Brazilian music, honoring his father's legacy while forging his own distinct path.