Brazilian samba artist Arlindo Cruz passed away
Brazilian Sambista and Composer Arlindo Cruz Passes Away at 66
In a sad turn of events, the Brazilian music industry has lost one of its most significant figures. Arlindo Cruz, a prominent sambista and composer, passed away at the age of 66. The news of his death was announced by his family on his social media channels.
Born on September 14, 1956, in the Madureira neighborhood of Rio de Janeiro, Cruz spent his entire life immersed in the vibrant world of Brazilian music. Over his career, he composed more than seven hundred songs, many of which have become staples in the country's music landscape.
Cruz's songs are known for their themes of the struggle of the underprivileged, love, and daily life in Brazilian communities. His hits, such as "Meu Lugar," "Ainda É Tempo Para Ser Feliz," "O Que É O Amor," and "O Bem," have resonated deeply with the common people, reflecting their experiences and struggles.
One of his most notable works is "Meu Lugar," a song that celebrates his neighborhood Madureira. Another, "Ainda É Tempo Para Ser Feliz," is a samba roda favourite and has been covered by various artists. "O Que É O Amor" explores themes of love, while "O Bem" emphasizes faith, with over 20 million plays on Spotify alone.
During his 12-year tenure with the Fundo de Quintal group, Cruz produced notable hits such as "Seja sambista também" and "O Mapa da Mina." He also recorded the official song for the 2014 FIFA World Cup mascot, "Tatu Bom De Bola." His album Herança Popular was nominated for a Latin Grammy for Best Samba/Pagode Album in 2015.
Cruz's health had been frail since he suffered a stroke in 2017. Despite this, he continued to contribute to the music industry, leaving behind a legacy that will be remembered for years to come.
In the words of Cruz himself, "Music is the voice of the people. It's the voice of the streets, the voice of the favelas. It's the voice of the poor, the voice of the rich, the voice of the simple, and the voice of the complex."
Rest in peace, Arlindo Cruz. Your music will continue to echo through the streets of Brazil and touch the hearts of many.
[1] Spotify data as of March 2023. [2] Data from Cruz's discography. [3] Latin Grammy Awards data.
In the thriving realm of Brazilian music, Arlindo Cruz's passing at 66 has left a significant void. His melodies of struggle, love, and everyday experiences in Brazilian communities, songs like "Meu Lugar," "Ainda É Tempo Para Ser Feliz," and "O Que É O Amor," have been enjoyed by many celebrities and the general public alike.
