Biography
Jorge Antônio Carlos, known as Jorginho do Império, was born on February 13, 1944, in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, to Mano Décio da Viola, a renowned composer and co-founder of the Império Serrano samba school. From childhood, he frequented the school, serving as one of its mascotes, immersing himself in samba culture. He began his career opening shows for Martinho da Vila and playing as a ritmista in his backing group. In 1971, he was elected 'Cidadão Samba do Estado da Guanabara,' marking early recognition.[1][2]
Jorginho launched his recording career in 1973 with the LP 'Pedra noventa,' followed by successful albums like 'Viagem encantada' (1975), featuring hits such as 'Na beira do mar' and 'Dinheiro vai, dinheiro vem.' His discography spans over 21 LPs and several CDs, including live recordings like 'Pra quem gosta de samba' (2002) and 'Jorginho do Império Ao vivo – O Filho do Imperador' (2012). He served as the official puxador (lead singer) for Império Serrano in 1996, 1997, and 1999, including the samba-enredo 'Uma rua chamada Brasil,' and also acted as diretor de carnaval. His style is rooted in samba and pagode, with international performances in countries like Japan, France, Argentina, and Hong Kong.[1][2]
Today, Jorginho resides in Madureira, Rio de Janeiro, near the Império Serrano on a street named after his father. He hosts the radio program 'Barracão do Samba' on Rádio Livre 1440 with Marcelo Pacífico and launched barracaodosamba.com in 2011 for samba content and web broadcasts. In 2005, he celebrated 30 years of career with the roda de samba 'Butiquim do Jorginho do Império.'[1][2]
Fun Facts
- As a child, Jorginho was a mascote of the Império Serrano samba school founded by his father.
- In 1971, at age 27, he was honored as 'Cidadão Samba do Estado da Guanabara.'
- He has performed samba internationally in Hong Kong, Argentina, France, and Japan.
- His 2012 live album 'O Filho do Imperador' is subtitled after his father, Mano Décio da Viola.
Musical Connections
Mentors/Influences
- Mano Décio da Viola - Father, composer and founder of Império Serrano; major stylistic influence ('Viagem encantada', 'Apoteose ao Rio') [1944-present]
- Martinho da Vila - Early career mentor; opened shows and played in his band (Backing group performances) [1960s-1970s]
Key Collaborators
- Noca da Portela - Frequent composer of his songs ('Dinheiro vai, dinheiro vem', 'Pára com isso', 'Na raça e no peito') [1970s-1980s]
- Baianinho, Zédi, Comprido - Participated in joint show ('Encontro com o samba' at Rio Sampa) [2000]
- Roberto Lopes, Canário - Repertoire selection for live album ('Pra quem gosta de samba') [2002]
- Marcelo Pacífico - Co-host of radio program ('Barracão do Samba' on Rádio Livre 1440) [Present]
Connection Network
External Links
References
Heard on WWOZ
Jorginho do Imperio has been played 1 time on WWOZ 90.7 FM, New Orleans' jazz and heritage station.
| Date | Time | Title | Show | Spotify |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan 3, 2026 | 14:18 | Hei Amigofrom Agora Sim... | Tudo Bem (Brazilian)w/ Dean Ellis |