A Pernambuco singer-songwriter who turned forró rhythms and political themes into national hits.
For a quick sense of his sound, try 'Anunciação' first, that's the ballad that broke through nationally. Then maybe 'Tesoura do Desejo' to hear how he handles rhythm and desire.
Valença's 1974 song 'Anunciação' became a national hit about unrequited love that resonated far beyond his Northeastern roots. He's kept that balance between traditional Brazilian sounds and accessible pop for decades, working with artists like Chico Buarque and Gilberto Gil. Songs like 'Tesoura do Desejo' and 'Moça Bonita' show how he makes regional music feel universal.
He grew up with forró rhythms in Pernambuco before moving to Recife in the early 1970s to play bars and clubs. His debut 'Molhado de Suor' came out in 1972, followed by 'Quadrafônico' in 1974 with 'Anunciação'. He's released more than thirty albums since, from 'Espelho' in 1975 to 'Ciranda Mourisco' in 2010.
Keep it compact: a lyric you come back to, a live memory, or the part of the catalog you would point someone toward first.
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