Wal Rodrigues e Cristiano

Wal Rodrigues and Cristiano came together from different neighborhoods in São Paulo's periphery, Rodrigues from Parelheiros, Cristiano from Grajaú. They started playing at local street parties and small venues, working out a sound that mixed funk with techno and regional rhythms. Their 2015 single 'Mulher Pancadão' caught on quickly, even as its lyrics and video drew criticism from some quarters.

That track, along with songs like 'Tchaca Tchaca,' helped define what became known as pancadão, a style rooted in the everyday experiences of working-class listeners. The duo kept releasing music that connected with that audience, building a following without much early support from the mainstream industry.