On Friday (8), Brazil bids farewell to one of its greatest musical talents—the multi-instrumentalist, composer, and samba icon, Arlindo Cruz. With his health debilitated since 2017, when he suffered a severe stroke (AVC), Arlindo Cruz died at the age of 66.
In a statement published on social media, the family announced his death and thanked for the messages of love, support, and affection they received over the past years, and especially now at the hour of his passing. “Arlindo departs leaving behind an immense legacy for Brazilian culture and an example of strength, humility, and passion for art. May his music continue to echo and inspire future generations, as it was always his wish,” the note says. Arlindo is survived by his wife, Bárbara, and his children Arlindinho and Flora.
Career
Born on September 14, 1956, in Madureira, in Rio de Janeiro’s North Zone, Arlindo Domingos da Cruz Filho grew up to the beat of samba circles. At 7 years old, he received his first cavaquinho. Still very young, he began working as a musician alongside great artists like Candeia. Later, he went to the Air Cadet Preparatory School, but never abandoned music. In an appearance on the Sem Censura program on TV Brasil, he recounted the musical heritage he received at home, influenced by his father Arlindão Cruz, who played cavaquinho, and his mother Aracy, who played drums and sang.
When he left the Air Force, Arlindo Cruz began frequenting the samba circles of Cacique de Ramos, alongside Jorge Aragão, Beth Carvalho, Almir Guineto, Zeca Pagodinho, and Sombrinha, who would become his great partner. There, he received the invitation to join the Fundo de Quintal group. It was during this time that samba gained a new form, with a modern sound but without losing the essence of the backyards and terreiros. His compositions soon began to feature in the voices of Zeca Pagodinho, Beth Carvalho, Alcione, and many others. It was then 12 years of work, leaving the group in 1993 to launch a solo career.
Author of more than 700 songs, Arlindo Cruz wrote with his heart and soul. His lyrics proclaimed love, faith, and struggle, translating the daily lives of thousands of Brazilians. Among the biggest hits are O Show Tem que Continuar, Meu Lugar and Bagaço de Laranja.
Arlindo was also a striking voice in Rio de Janeiro’s carnival and a beloved figure in the courtyards of samba schools, such as Império Serrano. A fervent defender of popular culture, he was a passionate Flamengo fan.
Faithful to his religion, candomblé, and to the Orixás, he fought against intolerance.
Source: Agência Brasil