Here are 15 famous musicians from Brazil died at 78:
Augusto Boal (March 16, 1931 Rio de Janeiro-May 2, 2009 Rio de Janeiro) also known as Augusto Pinto Boal was a Brazilian writer, politician and theatre practitioner.
Boal is best known for his work as a theatre director and founder of Theatre of the Oppressed, a form of participatory theatre that aims to empower marginalized communities and promote social justice. He spent much of his life working to democratize theatre by encouraging audience participation and promoting the idea that theatre should be an arena for political and social change. In addition to his work in theatre, Boal was also involved in politics and served as a member of the Rio de Janeiro City Council from 1993 to 1997. Throughout his life, he authored numerous books and plays, including "Games for Actors and Non-Actors" and "Theatre of the Oppressed." His legacy continues to inspire theatre practitioners around the world to use their craft as a tool for social change.
Boal was born in Rio de Janeiro and began his career in the theatre as an actor, initially appearing in traditional plays. However, he soon became disillusioned with the limited scope of traditional theatre and began to experiment with new forms of audience participation. In the 1960s, he founded the Theatre of the Oppressed, which used games, exercises, and techniques to involve the audience in the creation of a theatrical performance. The goal of this form of theatre was to empower the audience to think critically about the world around them and to take action to effect social change.
Boal's work with the Theatre of the Oppressed gained international recognition, and he traveled extensively to share his techniques with other practitioners. He also worked with communities around the world, using theatre as a tool for social and political change. Boal believed that theatre should be an interactive, democratic process, and that everyone should have the opportunity to participate in the creation of a performance.
In addition to his work in theatre, Boal was also involved in politics. He served as a city councilor in Rio de Janeiro in the 1990s and was a member of Brazil's Workers' Party. He was an advocate of participatory democracy and believed that everyone should have a voice in the decisions that affect their lives.
Boal's contributions to theatre and politics have been widely recognized. He was awarded numerous honors, including the Dorothy and Lillian Gish Prize, which recognized his contributions to the arts and social justice. Today, his legacy lives on through the work of the Theatre of the Oppressed and other practitioners of participatory theatre around the world.
He died as a result of respiratory failure.
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Norma Bengell (February 21, 1935 Rio de Janeiro-October 9, 2013 Rio de Janeiro) a.k.a. Norma Benguell, Norma Bengel, Norma Almeida Pinto Guimarães d'Area Bengell, Norma Aparecida Almeida Pinto Guimarães D´Áurea Bengell or Norma Aparecida Almeida Pinto Guimarães D'Áurea Bengell was a Brazilian film director, actor, film producer, singer, screenwriter and composer.
Norma Bengell began her career in the entertainment industry as an actor and made her film debut in the 1959 Brazilian film "O Cangaceiro". She gained international recognition for her role in the film "Os Cafajestes" (The Pied Pipers) which premiered at the 1962 Cannes Film Festival. Bengell also directed her own films including "A Rainha Diaba" (The Devil Queen) which starred herself and was released in 1974.
In addition to her work in film, Bengell was a singer and composer. She released several albums throughout her career and was known for her sultry voice and sensual stage presence. Bengell was also politically active and participated in protests against the military dictatorship in Brazil.
Despite her success, Bengell was often criticized for her refusal to conform to societal norms and her outspoken nature. However, her legacy has continued to inspire generations of artists in Brazil and beyond.
Norma Bengell was born to a family of Italian immigrants in Rio de Janeiro. Her father was a tailor and her mother was a homemaker. While growing up, Bengell developed a passion for the arts and started taking singing and acting lessons at a young age. She made her stage debut at the age of 17 and soon landed her first film role.
During her career, Bengell appeared in over 30 films and won critical acclaim for her performances. She also worked as a producer and screenwriter and was involved in the creation of several important films in Brazilian cinema.
Bengell's music career was equally impressive. She recorded several albums and collaborated with some of the most prominent musicians of her generation. Her music was characterized by its blending of traditional Brazilian rhythms with jazz and pop influences.
In her personal life, Bengell was known for her strong personality and controversial opinions. She was particularly vocal about issues related to gender and sexuality, and was a trailblazer for LGBTQ+ rights in Brazil.
Despite facing criticism and marginalization throughout her career, Bengell remained true to her artistic vision and paved the way for future generations of women and LGBTQ+ artists. Her legacy continues to be celebrated in Brazil and around the world.
She died in lung cancer.
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José Augusto Brandão (April 21, 1911 Taubaté-July 20, 1989) a.k.a. Jose Augusto Brandao was a Brazilian personality.
He was a journalist, writer, and broadcaster who played a significant role in Brazilian media in the mid-20th century. Brandão was known for his voice, which was often compared to that of a radio announcer, and he was a prominent figure in Brazilian radio broadcasting throughout his career. In addition to his work in media, Brandão was a prolific writer and published several books on a variety of topics, including politics, literature, and history. He also worked as a translator and was responsible for translating many works from English and French into Portuguese. Throughout his life, Brandão was deeply committed to social justice and was a vocal advocate for the rights of workers and oppressed groups. He was widely respected in Brazil for his contributions to journalism and broadcasting, and his legacy continues to be celebrated by many today.
Brandão began his career as a journalist in the 1930s, working for several newspapers in Brazil. He quickly became known for his insightful reporting and his ability to write about complex issues in ways that were accessible to the general public. In the 1940s, he transitioned to broadcasting, working as a radio announcer and eventually hosting his own show. His show, which covered a wide range of topics, including politics, culture, and current events, quickly became one of the most popular shows on Brazilian radio.
In addition to his work in media, Brandão was an active participant in Brazilian politics. He was a member of the Brazilian Communist Party and was involved in several left-wing political movements throughout his life. During the 1960s, he was briefly imprisoned by the Brazilian military government for his political activities. Despite this, he remained committed to his beliefs and continued to fight for social justice throughout his life.
Brandão's legacy in Brazilian media and politics is significant. He is remembered as a pioneering journalist and broadcaster who used his platform to bring important issues to the forefront of public consciousness. He is also celebrated for his activism and his commitment to fighting for a more just society. Today, several awards and scholarships are named in his honor, and his contributions continue to inspire new generations of Brazilian journalists and activists.
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Eugenio Centenaro Kerrigan (April 5, 1878 Genoa-December 25, 1956 Porto Alegre) also known as William Gauthier, Eugenio Centenaro, Count Eugenio Maria Piglione Rossiglioni de Farnet or E. C. Kerrigan was a Brazilian screenwriter and film director.
Kerrigan was born in Genoa, Italy and migrated to Brazil with his parents at a young age. He began his career in the entertainment industry as an actor in theater productions before transitioning to film. He was a pioneer of Brazilian cinema, directing and producing some of the country's earliest movies. In 1925, Kerrigan directed and wrote the screenplay for "São Paulo, Symphony of the Metropolis," considered one of the most important Brazilian films of the silent era. Throughout his career, he directed over 50 films and wrote countless screenplays. Kerrigan was also actively involved in the Brazilian film industry as a producer and founder of production companies. In addition to his work in film, he was also a writer, playwright, and translator. Today, he is recognized as a key figure in the development of Brazilian cinema.
Kerrigan's influence on Brazilian cinema can still be seen today in the country's film industry. He is considered a pioneer in the use of Brazilian landscapes as the backdrop for many of his films, bringing the beauty of the country to audiences around the world. Kerrigan's career spanned several decades, and he continued to work in the industry until his death. He was also a mentor to many aspiring filmmakers, helping to shape the next generation of Brazilian cinema. Despite his importance to the industry, Kerrigan's contributions have often been overlooked in the broader film world. However, in recent years there has been a growing interest in his work, and his films are being reevaluated and celebrated for their significance in the history of cinema.
He died in myocardial infarction.
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Euclydes Barbosa (December 7, 1909 São Paulo-February 26, 1988) was a Brazilian personality.
He was a renowned mathematician and educator, recognized as one of the most important Brazilian mathematicians of the 20th century. Barbosa made significant contributions to the field of differential geometry, and he was particularly interested in problems related to minimal surfaces. He also worked on the theory of submanifolds and their singularities, and his research on these topics helped advance the understanding of geometric problems in Brazil and beyond. In addition to his mathematical achievements, Barbosa was a committed educator who taught at several institutions throughout his career, including the University of São Paulo and the Federal University of Rio de Janeiro. He also served as the president of the Brazilian Mathematical Society from 1965 to 1966. Barbosa was widely respected both for his mathematical expertise and his dedication to promoting mathematics education, and his legacy continues to inspire mathematicians in Brazil and around the world.
Barbosa received his PhD in mathematics from the University of Paris in 1935, and he subsequently spent a year at the Institute for Advanced Study in Princeton, New Jersey. During his time in the United States, he worked with prominent mathematicians such as Albert Einstein and Oswald Veblen, and he developed important collaborations with several American universities. Barbosa's work on minimal surfaces, in particular, had a significant impact on the study of geometry and physics, and it continues to be studied and applied in various fields today.
Throughout his career, Barbosa received many accolades for his contributions to mathematics and his teaching achievements. He was awarded the National Order of Scientific Merit in 1977, and he was also elected to the Brazilian Academy of Sciences in 1960. Despite his many accomplishments, Barbosa remained a modest and generous person, always willing to share his knowledge and mentor the next generation of mathematicians. Today, he is remembered as one of the most important figures in the history of Brazilian mathematics, and his contributions continue to inspire countless students and researchers in the field.
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Jorge Vieira (July 18, 1934 Rio de Janeiro-July 24, 2012 Rio de Janeiro) was a Brazilian personality.
He was primarily known for his work as a painter, sculptor, engraver, and poet. Vieira began his artistic career as a self-taught artist and in 1955, he became the first Brazilian painter to receive a scholarship to study at the L'École Nationale Supérieure des Beaux-Arts in Paris.
During his time in France, Vieira developed his personal style of art that centered around the use of simple geometric shapes, bright colors, and bold lines. He was particularly interested in depicting everyday life and scenes of Brazil, which he infused with his own unique style.
In addition to his work in the arts, Vieira was also an important cultural figure in Brazil during the 1970s and 1980s, actively supporting various political causes and advocating for the rights of artists. He also published several books of poetry, which reflected his political views and his personal philosophy.
Throughout his career, Vieira received numerous awards and accolades for his contributions to the arts, including the prestigious Order of Merit of the Federal District of Brasília in 1991. Despite his passing, his legacy continues to influence contemporary Brazilian artists to this day.
Vieira's artwork is characterized by its abstract geometric forms and bright, bold colors. He often used simple everyday objects as subjects, such as chairs or buildings. His work is also heavily influenced by Brazilian culture and history, featuring scenes from everyday life and events from Brazilian history.
Vieira was an active participant in the Brazilian art scene throughout his life. He co-founded the Grupo Frente, an artists' collective that was instrumental in the development of Concrete Art in Brazil. He also participated in the 1959 São Paulo Biennial and the 1963 Paris Biennale.
Later in life, Vieira became increasingly involved in politics and activism. He was a vocal critic of Brazil's military dictatorship and was known for his support of left-wing causes. He was arrested twice for his political activities and spent time in prison.
Despite his political activities, Vieira remained committed to his art throughout his life. He continued to produce work until his death in 2012 and left behind a significant legacy in the Brazilian artistic community. Today, his work can be found in museums and galleries around the world, and he is remembered as one of Brazil's most important modern artists.
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Joffre Soares (September 21, 1917 Palmeira dos Índios-August 19, 1996 São Paulo) also known as Joffrey Soares, José Jofre Soares or Jofre Soares was a Brazilian actor and military officer.
During his military career, Joffre Soares reached the rank of lieutenant colonel before retiring and pursuing his acting career. He began his acting career in the theater in the 1940s, but later transitioned to television and film in the 1950s. Soares appeared in over 70 films throughout his career, including "Black Orpheus" and "The Given Word." He was also a prominent figure in the Brazilian telenovela industry, appearing in popular shows like "Selva de Pedra" and "Irmãos Coragem." Soares was known for his deep, commanding voice and his ability to play tough, authoritative characters. In addition to his acting career, Soares was a successful playwright and screenwriter, with some of his most notable works being "A Revolução dos Sabores" and "A Grande Viagem." He was awarded the Order of Rio Branco for his contributions to Brazilian culture in 1985.
Despite being primarily known for his work in acting and playwriting, Joffre Soares was also a talented musician and composer. He played the guitar and piano and wrote several songs throughout his life. Soares was a staunch advocate for veterans' rights and frequently used his platform to bring attention to the challenges that those who had served in the military faced. He also supported several charitable organizations, including the Brazilian Association for Parkinson's Disease, the Brazilian Cancer Society, and the Brazilian Institute for the Visually Impaired. Soares passed away in 1996 at the age of 78, leaving behind a legacy as one of Brazil's most prolific and beloved performers.
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Grande Otelo (October 18, 1915 Uberlândia-November 26, 1993 Paris) also known as Sebastião Bernardes de Souza Prata, Grande Othelo, Great Otelo or The Little Otelo was a Brazilian actor, composer, singer and comedian. His children are Mário Luiz Prata, Jaciara Prata, José Prata and Carlos Sebastião Prata.
Born in Uberlândia, Minas Gerais, Grande Otelo began his career in show business by performing in circuses and later moved to Rio de Janeiro where he became a prominent figure in the emerging film industry. He starred in over 120 films throughout his career and was known for his comedic timing and expressive physicality. Some of his most notable roles were in films such as Black Orpheus, where he played the character of Uncle Chico and Macunaíma, where he played the titular character.
Aside from his work in films, Grande Otelo was also a prolific composer and songwriter. He wrote hundreds of songs throughout his career and collaborated with some of the biggest names in Brazilian music such as Dorival Caymmi and Ary Barroso. He was also a talented singer and released several albums over the years.
Despite his success on the stage and screen, Grande Otelo faced discrimination and racism throughout his life. He was an advocate for racial equality and spoke out against discrimination in the entertainment industry. He was awarded the Order of Cultural Merit by the Brazilian government in 1983 for his contributions to Brazilian culture.
Grande Otelo passed away in Paris in 1993 at the age of 78. His legacy continues today as he is remembered as one of Brazil's most talented and beloved performers.
In addition to his successful career in Brazil, Grande Otelo also achieved international recognition for his work in the entertainment industry. He performed in shows and films in countries such as France, Italy, Spain, and the United States, where he appeared in the film The Guns of Navarone, amongst others. His talent and charisma made him a beloved figure both in Brazil and abroad.
Grande Otelo's impact was not limited to the world of entertainment, as he was also a political activist. He was a member of the Brazilian Communist Party and was known for his support of left-wing causes. He was arrested several times throughout his life for his political beliefs.
Despite the challenges he faced, Grande Otelo never lost his infectious sense of humor and love for the arts. He left a lasting impression on Brazilian culture and his contributions continue to be celebrated today.
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Augusto Aníbal (April 5, 1887 Fortaleza-April 5, 1965 Rio de Janeiro) also known as Augusto Aníbal de Almeida was a Brazilian actor and singer.
Augusto Aníbal started his career as a radio announcer in Rio de Janeiro in the 1920s. He then moved on to become a prominent stage actor, appearing in several theater productions and operettas. Aníbal then transitioned into film, acting in over 30 movies throughout his career. He was known for his comedic roles and was a regular in Brazilian cinema during the 1930s and 1940s. Aníbal was also a popular singer and recorded several songs. He continued performing on stage and screen until his death in 1965. Today, he is remembered as one of Brazil's most beloved actors of the early 20th century.
In addition to his work in theater, film, and radio, Augusto Aníbal was also a prolific writer. He authored several plays and translated works from other languages into Portuguese. Aníbal was also known for his philanthropic work, especially in the area of education. He established a scholarship program to help underprivileged children attend school and funded the construction of several community centers in Rio de Janeiro. Aníbal's legacy continues to be celebrated in Brazil, with a street in Rio de Janeiro named after him and his contributions to Brazilian culture and society remembered fondly.
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Wesley Duke Lee (December 21, 1931 São Paulo-September 12, 2010 São Paulo) was a Brazilian actor and set decorator.
In addition to his work as an actor and set decorator, Wesley Duke Lee was a renowned artist and one of the pioneers of Brazilian contemporary art in the 1960s. He studied at the School of Architecture and Urbanism at the University of São Paulo and co-founded the Grupo Rex, which aimed to create more experimental and interdisciplinary art forms. Lee's works were known for their pop art influences and included paintings, sculptures, and installations. He participated in several exhibitions in Brazil and abroad, including the São Paulo Biennial and the Venice Biennale. Lee continued to be an influential figure in the Brazilian art scene until his death in 2010.
Lee's contributions to the Brazilian art scene were not limited to his own works; he was known for his role in supporting and promoting young artists in Brazil. As an educator, Lee taught at several universities in Brazil and Europe, including the Academy of Fine Arts in Munich, Germany. He also co-founded the School of Communications and Arts at the University of São Paulo, where he taught until his retirement in 1993.
Throughout his career, Lee received many awards and honors for his artistic achievements, including the National Prize of Plastic Arts and the Order of Cultural Merit. Despite his success, Lee remained committed to pushing boundaries in the art world and experimenting with new forms of expression.
Today, Lee's works can be found in major collections around the world, including the Museum of Modern Art in New York City and the Tate Modern in London. His legacy continues to influence and inspire artists in Brazil and beyond.
He died caused by pulmonary aspiration.
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Nelson Dantas (November 17, 1927 Rio de Janeiro-March 18, 2006 Rio de Janeiro) also known as Nelson Hannequim Dantas Filho or Nélson Dantas was a Brazilian actor. He had two children, Daniel Dantas and Andrea Dantas.
Nelson Dantas had a successful acting career in Brazil and was known for his outstanding performances in stage plays, television series, and films. He began his career in theater in the 1950s and became a popular actor in Brazilian cinema in the 1960s. Some of his notable works include the films Garrincha: Hero of the Jungle, A Trip to the City, and O Rei do Gado.
Dantas also appeared in several TV series throughout his career, including the popular Brazilian telenovelas Roque Santeiro, Saramandaia, and Tieta. His remarkable performances earned him many accolades, including the Best Supporting Actor award at the 1987 Festival de Brasília for his role in the film, Fronteira das Almas.
Apart from acting, Dantas was also a founder of the Brazilian Actors' Union and played an important role in the promotion of the arts in the country. He was widely respected for his talent, dedication, and contribution to Brazilian cultural and artistic heritage.
Throughout his career, Nelson Dantas also worked as a director and producer in theater and television. He was particularly interested in promoting regional theater and participated in many cultural events in the state of Rio de Janeiro. In addition, Dantas was an avid supporter of social causes and advocated for the rights of artists and workers. He was a member of the Brazilian Labor Party and spoke out against dictatorship and censorship during Brazil's military regime. As a result, he was briefly arrested and harassed by the government, but he continued to express his political views through his work. Nelson Dantas passed away in 2006 at the age of 78, leaving behind a rich legacy of artistic achievements and social activism. He is remembered as one of Brazil's greatest actors and cultural icons.
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Djalma Guimarães (November 5, 1894 Brazil-October 10, 1973 Belo Horizonte) was a Brazilian personality.
He was a lawyer, politician, and journalist who contributed significantly to the cultural and social development of Brazil. Guimarães was a member of the Brazilian Academy of Letters and served as the mayor of Belo Horizonte from 1934 to 1935. He was also elected as a deputy and senator in the National Congress of Brazil. Guimarães was a key figure in the Modernist movement in Brazil, promoting progressive cultural ideas and advocating for social change. Through his writings and speeches, he challenged traditional Brazilian values and beliefs and called for a more diverse and inclusive society. Guimarães also founded several cultural institutions, including the Belo Horizonte Museum of Arts and Crafts, which houses a significant collection of Brazilian art and crafts. His contributions to Brazilian culture and politics have earned him a lasting legacy as one of the country's most influential thinkers and activists.
In addition to his political and cultural contributions, Guimarães was also a prolific writer. He wrote numerous books, essays, and articles on a range of topics, including law, politics, and culture. His book "O Problema Racial Brasileiro" ("The Brazilian Racial Problem") is considered one of the most important works on race relations in Brazil. Guimarães was also a founding member of the Brazilian Academy of Humanism, which aimed to promote humanistic values and principles in Brazilian society. He was recognized during his lifetime as a leading intellectual and a voice of social progress and reform. Today, he is remembered as a pioneering figure in Brazilian culture and politics who paved the way for future generations of artists, writers, and activists.
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Arduíno Colassanti (February 15, 1936 Livorno-February 22, 2014 Niterói) a.k.a. Arduino Colasanti was a Brazilian actor and businessperson.
Colassanti was born to Italian parents in Livorno, Italy, and moved to Brazil with his family at the age of four. He began his acting career in the 1950s and went on to appear in over 50 films and television shows, including the critically acclaimed films "Pixote" and "Tieta do Agreste." In addition to his acting work, Colassanti was also a successful businessman, owning a chain of jewelry stores in Rio de Janeiro. He was married twice and had three children. In his later years, Colassanti devoted his time to philanthropic work, supporting social and environmental causes in Brazil.
Colassanti was known for his versatile acting skills and played a wide range of roles, from dramatic to comedic. Some of his other notable roles include "Gabriela, Cravo e Canela," "Os Fuzis," and "São Bernardo." In addition to his work in film and television, he also had a successful career on the stage, starring in several productions of classic plays such as "Hamlet" and "King Lear." Colassanti was highly respected in the Brazilian entertainment industry and received numerous awards for his performances. He was also a member of the Brazilian Academy of Arts and Letters. Colassanti's legacy continues to live on through his contributions to Brazilian cinema and his philanthropic efforts.
He died in respiratory failure.
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Guilherme de Almeida (July 24, 1890 Campinas-July 11, 1969 São Paulo) also known as Guilherme de Andrade de Almeida was a Brazilian lawyer, journalist, screenwriter, poet, essayist, translator and film critic. He had one child, Guy Sérgio Haroldo Estevão Zózimo Barroso de Almeida.
Born into a prominent family, de Almeida started his career as a lawyer before turning to writing. He became known for his poetry, which often focused on Brazilian natural beauty and tended to be very musical. He was a contemporary of modernist writers such as Oswald de Andrade and Mario de Andrade, and was associated with the "Group of Five," a group of poets who were influenced by European literary movements such as Futurism and Surrealism.
In addition to his poetry, de Almeida was also a prolific translator, bringing works by Shakespeare, Goethe, and other European writers to Brazilian audiences. He worked as a journalist and film critic for many years, writing for newspapers such as O Estado de S. Paulo and Diário de São Paulo.
De Almeida's legacy has been recognized by many literary and cultural institutions in Brazil. His former home in São Paulo has been turned into a museum, and in 2011 he was posthumously awarded the Ordem do Ipiranga, one of the highest honors in Brazil.
De Almeida was also a screenwriter, contributing to some of the earliest Brazilian film productions in the 1920s and 1930s, including "A Voz do Carnaval" and "Alma de Brasil". He was involved in the development of the Cinema Novo movement in Brazil, which sought to capture a more authentic Brazilian identity on film. He also wrote essays and literary criticism, often commenting on the intersection of literature and politics in Brazil.
Aside from his literary and cultural contributions, de Almeida was also involved in politics, serving as a city councilor in São Paulo in the 1940s and advocating for progressive causes such as public housing and education reform.
De Almeida's work continues to be studied and appreciated by literary scholars and readers alike. His poetry, in particular, is noted for its musicality and lyrical beauty, and his translations are credited with bringing important works of world literature to Brazilian audiences.
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Luiz Bonfá (October 17, 1922 Rio de Janeiro-January 12, 2001 Santa Cruz, Rio de Janeiro) also known as Luiz Bonfa, Luis Bonfa, Luiz Floriano Bonfá or Luis Bonfá was a Brazilian actor, composer, musician and film score composer.
His albums include Black Orpheus Impressions, Bossa Nova, Jacarandá, Solo in Rio 1959, The Magic Bonfa, Non-Stop to Brazil, The Brazilian Scene, Le roi de la Bossa Nova, The New Face of Bonfa and O Violao E O Samba.
He died as a result of cancer.
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