Neguinho da Beija-Flor, a prominent samba singer, will perform his final show at Rio’s carnival after a 50-year career. At 75, he cites exhaustion as the reason for retirement, emphasizing the physical demands of his role. He has led the Beija-Flor samba school to numerous championships and plans to continue creating music while expressing gratitude in his farewell performance.
On Monday evening, during Rio de Janeiro’s famed carnival, the audience at the Marquês de Sapucaí Sambadrome will hear the final performance of Neguinho da Beija-Flor, a revered samba singer. At the age of 75, Neguinho has announced his retirement after leading 50 consecutive parades for the Beija-Flor samba school, a powerhouse in Brazil’s carnival scene that competes fiercely each year.
Neguinho expressed his excitement for retirement, stating, “I can’t wait to retire. After this Monday’s parade, c’est fini.” As he prepared for his last performance, he noted that it was the exhaustion of the role that led to his decision. Maintaining the energy of an enormous audience during a parade requires immense stamina, akin to that of a marathon runner.
Neguinho, born Luiz Antônio Feliciano, began his career at the age of 22 in a local samba bloc while serving in the air force. The nickname “Neguinho” carries dual meanings in Brazil; it can be derogatory or affectionate. He embraced this nickname, reflecting his identity as an Afro-Brazilian in a world where he has faced significant racial challenges.
His breakthrough came in 1976 when he was required to step in for a deceased performer shortly before carnival. Under his leadership, the Beija-Flor school has won 14 championships, with his signature battle cry “Olha a Beija-Flor aí, gente!” becoming iconic. The financial backing from local gambling lords has also played a role in the samba schools’ successes, though Neguinho believes it has contributed positively to the carnival’s growth.
Neguinho’s enduring commitment to Beija-Flor distinguishes him from contemporary artists who more frequently shift between samba schools. As noted by samba historian Leonardo Bruno, “Neguinho is the biggest star of Rio’s carnival today, and his farewell marks the end of a romantic era.”
Although he has never received a salary from the school, he supports himself through various samba-related ventures outside of the carnival season. With plans for a new album and performances ahead, Neguinho is prepared to embark on his next chapter, despite the emotional weight of his farewell performance.
Intent on keeping his farewell simple, he has consulted with his therapist and will present a banner that reads “Thank you very much” during his final show, aiming to express his gratitude without becoming overwhelmed as he performs. After the parade, he will depart in a waiting car, marking the end of his remarkable journey in samba.
Neguinho da Beija-Flor’s retirement symbolizes a significant moment in Brazilian samba culture, marking the conclusion of a distinguished career spanning five decades. His contributions to the Beija-Flor samba school are unparalleled, characterized by a memorable voice and a deep connection to his audience. As he steps away, he leaves behind a legacy of resilience, artistry, and heartfelt expression in the world of samba.
Original Source: www.theguardian.com
