Vilmário Moura

Vilmário Moura came up in Brazil's northeast, playing local festivals with friends as a teenager. In 1996, his song "Me Levanta" caught on nationally with its straightforward rhythm and hopeful message. The track became something of an anthem in certain circles, particularly among working-class listeners who connected with its plainspoken resilience.

He kept recording after that breakthrough, putting out albums like Raiz do Samba in 2000 and De Olho No Tempo in 2004. His band included Genivaldo Alves on bass, Carlos Eduardo on percussion, and Genésio Neto on keyboards. They worked in a mix of samba and reggae, avoiding flashy production in favor of a direct, unadorned sound.

Moura was known to speak his mind about social issues, which sometimes drew criticism from those who preferred musicians to stay out of politics. He also had well-documented struggles with addiction. Through it all, he kept making music that felt grounded in everyday experience, like the wistful "Tenho Saudades."