Elza Soares & Titas

Biography

Elza Soares was a legendary Brazilian samba singer whose career spanned over six decades, making her one of the most influential voices in Brazilian music. Born in 1930 in Rio de Janeiro, Soares grew up in poverty and faced numerous hardships, including early marriage and the loss of her children. Her musical journey began when she won a radio contest at age 16, which launched her career as a crooner. She quickly gained fame for her powerful, husky voice and innovative style, blending samba with jazz and scat singing, notably in her debut hit 'Se Acaso Você Chegasse.' Over the years, she became a symbol of resilience and artistic reinvention, recording with major figures in Brazilian music and touring internationally. In the 1980s, she was rediscovered by younger generations, including rock bands like Titãs, and continued to push musical boundaries into the 21st century, earning accolades such as being named 'Singer of the Millennium' by the BBC in 2000. Her legacy endures as a pioneering force in samba and a cultural icon of Brazil.

Fun Facts

• Elza Soares was named 'Singer of the Millennium' by the BBC in 2000, sharing the honor with Tina Turner.
• She introduced scat singing to samba music, inspired by Louis Armstrong, though she claimed she did not know American jazz at the time.
• Soares performed at the 1962 FIFA World Cup in Chile, where she met Louis Armstrong.
• She was the subject of a musical, 'Crioula,' in 2000, featuring songs written for her by Chico Buarque and other renowned Brazilian composers.

Musical Connections

Mentors/Influences

• Ary Barroso - hosted the radio contest where Soares won first place and began her career (Rádio Tupi novice show) [1946]
• Joaquim Naegli - conductor who hired Soares as a crooner in his orchestra (Orquestra Garam de Bailes) [1946–1954]

Key Collaborators

• Titãs - performed together and collaborated on stage, notably at the Madame Satã nightclub (regular shows at Madame Satã nightclub) [1980s]
• Miltinho - frequent duet partner and collaborator on several albums (Elza, Miltinho e Samba series) [1967–1969]
• José Miguel Wisnik - musical director for avant-garde concerts and albums (Elza Pede Passagem, Do Cóccix Até o Pescoço) [2000s]

Artists Influenced

• Os Titãs - rediscovered Soares and cited her as an influence on their music and performances (collaborative shows, musical style) [1980s–present]
• Lobão - Brazilian rock artist who helped revive Soares's career and was inspired by her artistry (collaborations and public tributes) [1980s–present]

Discography

Top Tracks

1. Samba de Preto (Samba de Preto)

External Links

• Spotify
• Wikipedia