Xica da Selva formed in Rio de Janeiro in 1998. Their first album that year was called 'Amélia,' which shares its name with one of their better-known songs. The group includes Xica da Silva on vocals and percussion, Fernanda Maia on guitar and vocals, Mariana Aydar on vocals and percussion, Lica Tito on banjo and vocals, and Helena Papini on drums.
Their music draws from Brazilian rhythms like samba and bossa nova, with some jazz and funk mixed in. They've released albums roughly every few years, including 'Cantando em Brasileiro' in 2001, 'Xica da Selva' in 2005, 'Bem-Vindos à Selva' in 2008, 'Raízes' in 2011, 'Nação' in 2015, and 'Selva' in 2019.
Some of their lyrics touch on social themes, and they've faced criticism for being outspoken during Brazil's political shifts. Songs like 'Bom Amigo' and 'Hora de Recomeçar' appear among their most played tracks. They've performed at various festivals, but their work stays grounded in those Brazilian rhythms rather than chasing global trends.
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