Pathetic Facts

Brazilian musicians died when they were 55

Here are 12 famous musicians from Brazil died at 55:

Aluísio Azevedo

Aluísio Azevedo (April 14, 1857 São Luís-January 21, 1913 La Plata) a.k.a. Aluisio Azevedo or Aluísio Tancredo Gonçalves de Azevedo was a Brazilian writer, journalist, playwright and diplomat.

Azevedo was a prominent figure in the Brazilian literary scene in the late 19th century, and was particularly known for his naturalist works, which sought to expose the darker aspects of Brazilian society. He began his career as a journalist, working for various newspapers and magazines, and also worked as a diplomat in Europe and Africa.

Azevedo is best known for his novel "O Mulato" (The Mulatto), which was published in 1881 and caused a great deal of controversy at the time due to its frank depiction of race and sexuality. The novel tells the story of a mixed-race man who is torn between his African and European roots, and is considered a landmark in Brazilian literature.

Azevedo went on to write many more novels, plays, and essays, and was a prolific contributor to Brazilian cultural life until his death in 1913. His works continue to be studied and celebrated today, and he is widely regarded as one of the most important writers in Brazilian literary history.

Throughout his literary career, Azevedo remained committed to realism and naturalism, and his works often focused on the political, social, and economic issues confronting Brazil during the late 19th century. In addition to "O Mulato," Azevedo's most notable works include "Casa de Pensão" (Boarding House), "O Cortiço" (The Slum), and "O Homem" (The Man).

Azevedo was also known for his involvement in the abolitionist movement, and he used his writing as a means of promoting social justice and equality for all Brazilians, regardless of race or social class. In addition to his literary pursuits, Azevedo also served as a government official and was appointed as Brazilian Consul in Bordeaux, France in 1894, where he remained for several years.

Azevedo's legacy as a writer and social activist continues to be celebrated in Brazil and beyond, and his works are seen as an important contribution to the development of Brazilian literature and cultural identity.

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Carlos Chagas

Carlos Chagas (July 9, 1879 Oliveira-November 8, 1934 Rio de Janeiro) also known as Dr. Carlos Chagas or Carlos Justiniano Ribeiro Chagas was a Brazilian physician, scientist, bacteriologist, clinician and researcher. He had two children, Carlos Chagas Filho and Evandro Chagas.

Carlos Chagas made major contributions to the field of medicine, particularly in the area of tropical diseases. He is best known for discovering a new species of parasite in 1909, which he named Trypanosoma cruzi. This parasite causes the Chagas disease, a tropical illness that affects millions of people in South America.

Chagas also studied other tropical diseases, including malaria and leprosy. His work led to the development of new treatments and prevention strategies for these illnesses.

In addition to his research, Chagas was also a dedicated public health activist. He worked to improve healthcare access and quality for rural communities in Brazil, where many of these diseases were prevalent.

Today, Carlos Chagas is recognized as one of the most important figures in the history of Brazilian medicine. His research and advocacy have made a significant impact on public health both in Brazil and around the world.

In addition to his scientific and medical contributions, Carlos Chagas also played an important role in Brazilian politics. He served as the director of the Oswaldo Cruz Institute, a leading public health research institution in Brazil, and as a member of the Brazilian Academy of Sciences. Chagas was also an outspoken critic of the discrimination and inequality faced by Indigenous people in Brazil. He advocated for their rights and helped establish the Indian Protection Service in 1910, which aimed to protect the interests and wellbeing of Indigenous communities. Today, the Carlos Chagas Medal is given out annually by the Brazilian National Academy of Medicine to recognize outstanding contributions in the field of tropical medicine. The Chagas Disease remains a significant health challenge for many countries in the Americas, but thanks to Carlos Chagas' groundbreaking work, we now have a better understanding of the disease and more effective methods of treatment and prevention.

He died caused by myocardial infarction.

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Alfredo d'Escragnolle Taunay, Viscount of Taunay

Alfredo d'Escragnolle Taunay, Viscount of Taunay (February 22, 1843 Rio de Janeiro-January 25, 1899 Rio de Janeiro) otherwise known as Alfredo d'Escragnolle Taunay Taunay or Alfredo D'Escragnolle Taunay was a Brazilian writer, politician, professor, military engineer, historian and musician. He had one child, Afonso d'Escragnolle Taunay.

Alfredo d'Escragnolle Taunay was born to an aristocratic family in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. He studied at the Escola Politécnica, where he later became a professor of mathematics, and went on to study at the Royal Military Academy of Brussels. He served in the Brazilian Army as a military engineer and eventually became a commander.

Aside from his military and academic pursuits, Taunay was also a prolific writer. He is best known for his novel "Innocence," which is considered a classic of Brazilian literature. He also wrote historical works, such as "The Expedition of the Thousand" and "History of the Brazilian Army," and was a member of the Brazilian Academy of Letters.

Taunay also had a successful career in politics, serving as a deputy in the National Congress and as a member of the Rio de Janeiro Municipal Council. He was known for his dedication to education and culture, and helped establish the National Museum of Fine Arts in Rio de Janeiro.

Despite his many accomplishments, Taunay faced personal tragedy later in life. His wife and son both died before him, and he himself died of heart disease at the age of 55 in Rio de Janeiro. Nonetheless, his legacy as a writer, historian, and statesman continues to be celebrated in Brazil to this day.

In addition to his literary, military, and political contributions, Alfredo d'Escragnolle Taunay was also a talented musician. He played several instruments, including the piano and guitar, and composed music as well. He was a member of the Brazilian Music Academy and helped to promote Brazilian music internationally.

Taunay was also a prominent figure in the abolitionist movement in Brazil. He advocated for the abolition of slavery and played a role in the passage of the Golden Law in 1888, which officially abolished slavery in Brazil.

His impact on Brazilian culture is still felt today. The city of Taunay in Mato Grosso do Sul is named after him, as is the Viscount of Taunay Medal, which is awarded to individuals who have made significant contributions to Brazilian culture.

Basílio da Gama

Basílio da Gama (April 10, 1740 Tiradentes-July 31, 1795 Lisbon) a.k.a. Basilio da Gama was a Brazilian writer and poet.

He was born in Tiradentes, Minas Gerais, Brazil and joined the Jesuit order in his early years, later leaving to become a lawyer. He is best known for his work "O Uraguai," an epic poem about the Guarani War in South America. Gama was also a key player in the Inconfidência Mineira, a failed attempt by Brazilian colonists to seek independence from Portuguese rule in 1789. As a result, he was exiled to Africa for several years before being allowed to return to Portugal, where he died in Lisbon in 1795. His works are celebrated for their contributions to the development of Brazilian literature and cultural identity.

Basílio da Gama was the son of Portuguese parents and spent his childhood in the state of Minas Gerais, Brazil. At a young age, he moved to Bahia to study at the Jesuit College, where he was educated in Latin, rhetoric, and philosophy. However, he left the Jesuit order in 1768 to dedicate himself to the study of law, which he later practiced in Bahia and Rio de Janeiro.

Apart from "O Uraguai," Basílio da Gama wrote several other works, including "O Dirceu," a satirical poem that discusses the government of the Marquis of Pombal in Portugal, and "Mesquita," a play that explores the themes of love, honor, and jealousy. He also collaborated on the satirical newspaper "O Philantropo," which criticized the government and social conditions in Brazil at the time.

In addition to his literary work, Gama was involved in politics and was a supporter of the ideas of the French Enlightenment. He supported the abolition of slavery in Brazil and advocated for the independence of the country from Portuguese rule.

Despite being exiled to Africa for his involvement in the Inconfidência Mineira, Gama never stopped writing and continued to contribute to Brazilian literature from afar. His works are still studied and appreciated today for their historical significance and cultural relevance in Brazilian literature.

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Marcos Antônio de Araújo, 2nd Baron of Itajubá

Marcos Antônio de Araújo, 2nd Baron of Itajubá (February 8, 1842-November 3, 1897) was a Brazilian lawyer and diplomat.

He was born in the city of Itajubá, Minas Gerais, Brazil, and was educated in Rio de Janeiro. After completing his studies, Marcos Antônio de Araújo began his career in law and worked as a magistrate in several different regions of Brazil. He was also involved in the diplomatic scene and served as a minister plenipotentiary in Berlin and Paris.

Marcos Antônio de Araújo was a strong advocate for the abolition of slavery, which resulted in his appointment as the President of the National Association for the Emancipation of Slaves. He played a pivotal role in the abolition of slavery in Brazil in 1888.

In addition to his legal and diplomatic accomplishments, Marcos Antônio de Araújo was also known for his literary work. He published a collection of poems and essays titled "The Lamp and the Flower", and some of his work is still celebrated in Brazil today.

He died of tuberculosis in Rio de Janeiro at the age of 55, leaving behind a legacy of advocacy and diplomacy that would inspire generations of Brazilians to come.

Marcos Antônio de Araújo was also a member of the Brazilian Academy of Letters and served as its president from 1896 to 1897. He was the first president of the Academy to die in office. In his honor, the Academy created the "Marcos de Araújo Scholarship" to support young writers, poets, and essayists across Brazil. In addition to his literary and political legacy, Marcos Antônio de Araújo was also an avid collector of art and artifacts, amassing a large collection of Brazilian and European art throughout his life. Today, his collection is a valuable piece of Brazilian cultural heritage, housed in the Itajubá Museum, which was founded and named in his honor. Marcos Antônio de Araújo's contributions to law, abolition, diplomacy, and culture have cemented his place in Brazilian history as a true Renaissance man.

Philadelpho Menezes

Philadelpho Menezes (April 5, 1960 São Paulo-April 5, 2015 Brazil) was a Brazilian writer and poet.

He was known for his contributions to the contemporary poetry movement in Brazil, and was considered one of the most influential writers of his generation. Menezes published numerous books of poetry and essays throughout his career, and his works were widely celebrated for their innovative use of language, structure, and style. He was also a professor of literature and creative writing and taught at several universities in Brazil and abroad. In addition to his writing, Menezes was a passionate advocate for social justice and human rights, and his work often addressed issues of inequality and oppression. Despite his premature death at the age of 55, his legacy as a poet and intellectual continues to resonate in Brazil and beyond.

Menezes studied at the University of São Paulo, where he earned a degree in Social Sciences. He went on to receive a doctorate in Literary Theory from the Pontifical Catholic University of São Paulo. Menezes was a prolific writer, with over 30 books of poetry, essays, and translations published in his lifetime. He was the recipient of numerous awards and honors, including the Jabuti Award, one of Brazil's most prestigious literary awards, for his book "Sobre o Rosto Roubado". Menezes was also recognized for his work as an editor and translator, having translated the works of several important poets into Portuguese.

In addition to his writing and teaching, Menezes was actively involved in social and political causes. He was a vocal critic of the Brazilian military dictatorship, which ruled the country from 1964 to 1985, and was involved in several movements for democracy and human rights. He also worked with various cultural organizations to promote the arts and literature in Brazil. Menezes' influence on Brazilian poetry and culture continues to be felt today, and he is remembered as one of the most important literary voices of his generation.

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Jurandir de Freitas

Jurandir de Freitas (November 12, 1940 Marília-March 6, 1996) was a Brazilian personality.

He was a former soccer player who played as a striker for several clubs in Brazil, including Portuguesa, Santos, and Palmeiras. After retiring from professional soccer, de Freitas became a sports commentator and journalist. He was known for his colorful personality and his ability to analyze soccer games with precision and insight. De Freitas was considered one of the most influential soccer journalists of his generation and was loved by many Brazilians for his passion for the sport. He died in March 1996 at the age of 55, leaving behind a legacy as one of the greatest soccer players and journalists in Brazilian history.

Additionally, Jurandir de Freitas was also known for his work as a TV presenter, having hosted several sports programs on Brazilian television. He was a pioneer in the coverage of international soccer events on TV in Brazil, having covered four World Cups (Mexico 1970, Germany 1974, Argentina 1978, and Spain 1982). De Freitas was also known for his philanthropic work, having established the "Jurandir de Freitas Foundation," which provided assistance to underprivileged children and teenagers in Brazil. Despite his success, he always remained humble and dedicated to giving back to his community. Today, Jurandir de Freitas is remembered as a true legend of Brazilian soccer and journalism, whose influence and impact are still felt by many in the country.

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Luizão Maia

Luizão Maia (April 3, 1949-January 28, 2005) also known as Luiz Maia or Luisão Maia was a Brazilian musician.

He was born in the city of Natal, in the northeastern state of Rio Grande do Norte, Brazil. Luizão Maia was a bassist and composer who played an essential role in Brazilian music during the 1970s and 1980s. He started his career as a musician in the 1960s, playing in different groups and working as a studio musician.

In the 1970s, Luizão Maia became one of the most requested musicians in Brazil, playing with some of the country's most famous artists, including Gilberto Gil, Caetano Veloso, Maria Bethânia, and Gal Costa. He was also part of the group that recorded the classic album "A Tábua de Esmeralda" by Jorge Ben Jor.

Luizão Maia was known for his unique bass lines that combined Brazilian rhythms such as samba, MPB (Brazilian Popular Music), and funk. He played an essential role in the development of the Brazilian bass playing style, which influenced a generation of bassists in Brazil and around the world.

Luizão Maia died in Rio de Janeiro at the age of 55 due to complications from heart surgery. However, his music and legacy continue to inspire new generations of Brazilian musicians.

In addition to his work as a studio musician and in collaborations with other artists, Luizão Maia released several albums as a solo artist. His debut album, "Também Quero Mocotó," was released in 1978 and featured contributions from top Brazilian musicians such as Gilberto Gil and João Donato. He also released the albums "Luizão" in 1982 and "Muito Prazer" in 1984. Luizão Maia was recognized as one of the most innovative and creative bassists in Brazilian music, and his influence can be heard in the work of artists such as Sergio Mendes, Ivan Lins, and Pat Metheny. In 2008, a tribute album called "Luizão" was released, featuring performances by contemporary Brazilian bassists in honor of Luizão Maia's contributions to the music of Brazil.

Read more about Luizão Maia on Wikipedia »

Roberto Ribeiro

Roberto Ribeiro (July 20, 1940 Campos dos Goytacazes-January 8, 1996 Rio de Janeiro) was a Brazilian songwriter and singer.

His albums include Fala meu Povo!, Poeira Pura, De Palmares ao Tamborim, Coisas da Vida and Meus Momentos (disc 1). His related genres: Samba.

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Tim Maia

Tim Maia (September 28, 1942 Rio de Janeiro-March 15, 1998 Niterói) also known as Maia, Tim was a Brazilian songwriter and singer. His children are called Carmelo Maia and Leo Maia.

His albums include Tim Maia, O Melhor de Tim Maia, A Festa do Tim Maia, Grandes Sucessos (Remasterizados), Interpreta clássicos da Bossa Nova, Millennium, Minha História, Racional, Volume 2, Tim Maia ao Vivo and Gold. Genres he performed: Funk, Música popular brasileira, Soul music, Jazz, Samba, Rock music, Disco and Bossa nova.

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Sérgio Vieira de Mello

Sérgio Vieira de Mello (March 15, 1948 Rio de Janeiro-August 19, 2003 Baghdad) a.k.a. Sergio Vieira de Mello was a Brazilian diplomat.

Sérgio Vieira de Mello was known for his humanitarian work, particularly his role as the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights from 2002 until his death in 2003. He dedicated his life to working with various international organizations, including the United Nations, to promote peace and protect human rights in conflict zones around the world.

Prior to his role at the UN, Vieira de Mello had a distinguished career as a Brazilian diplomat, serving in various posts in countries such as Bangladesh, Sudan, Cyprus, and Mozambique. He was widely respected for his skills as a negotiator and mediator, and was often called upon to resolve disputes and conflicts between warring factions.

In 2003, Vieira de Mello was appointed as the UN's Special Representative in Iraq, tasked with leading the organization's efforts to assist in the country's transition to democracy. Tragically, he was killed when a suicide bomber attacked the UN headquarters in Baghdad on August 19, 2003, along with 21 other UN personnel.

Vieira de Mello's legacy as a humanitarian and champion of human rights has inspired many, and his death was a great loss to the international community. His work continues to be remembered and honored through the Sergio Vieira de Mello Foundation, which supports activities aimed at promoting social inclusion, tolerance, and justice.

Vieira de Mello's death in the Baghdad bombing was a significant loss not only for the UN, but for the world at large. He was widely regarded as one of the organization's most talented and effective diplomats, with a humanitarian approach that deeply resonated with people around the globe. In addition to his work in conflict zones, he was also instrumental in the establishment of the International Criminal Court, which has played a key role in bringing war criminals to justice. His dedication to the promotion of human rights and international justice has continued to serve as an inspiration for many subsequent generations of diplomats and activists. Even after his passing, Vieira de Mello's work continues to make an impact in the world through the organizations he founded and the people he inspired.

He died caused by murder.

Lourdinha Bittencourt

Lourdinha Bittencourt (October 30, 1923 Campinas-August 19, 1979 Rio de Janeiro) was a Brazilian actor and singer.

She began her career as a radio singer in São Paulo in the 1940s and later moved to Rio de Janeiro to pursue a career in acting. She appeared in numerous films, including "O Grande Momento" (1958) and "Os Cafajestes" (1962), and also had success as a singer, releasing several albums throughout the 1950s and 1960s. Bittencourt was known for her soulful voice and her interpretations of Brazilian samba and bossa nova. She was a prominent figure in the Brazilian music scene during her career and is considered a major influence on contemporary Brazilian music. Despite her success, Bittencourt struggled with depression and alcoholism throughout her life and died at the age of 55.

In addition to her success as a singer and actress, Lourdinha Bittencourt was also a fierce advocate for women's rights and became involved in the feminist movement in Brazil during the 1960s. She used her platform in the music and entertainment industries to speak out on important social issues and challenge traditional gender roles. Bittencourt was also involved in charity work and worked closely with organizations that helped underprivileged children in Brazil. Her dedication to advocating for social justice and equality made her a beloved figure in Brazilian popular culture and her legacy continues to inspire new generations of musicians and activists in the country.

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