Sá, Rodrix e Guarabyra

Sá e Guarabyra, who had previously developed their individual careers, produced a singular style called rock rural with Zé Rodrix. Rock rural was a synthesis of the dream depicted in the American folk-rock of the '60s with the reality of upcountry Brazil, more specifically with música caipira (hillbilly music). The same mixture that scandalized Bob Dylan's fans was also explored by them: electric instruments and folk music. Among their biggest hits, "Sobradinho," "Sete Marias," "Espanhola," "Caçador de Mim," "Cheiro Mineiro de Flor," "Verdades e Mentiras," "Dona," and "Roque Santeiro." In 1971, the trio Sá, Rodrix e Guarabyra was formed, marking the advent of the rock rural (at least its most widely known representative, for there were other counterparts popping in less expressive states in the national landscape like Mato Grosso do Sul). In 1973, with Rodrix's departure, Sá and Guarabyra teamed up to form their duo, releasing their first LP, Nunca, that same year. "Sobradinho," one of their classics, came in 1977, on the praised Pirão de Peixe com Pimenta. With the inclusion of "Roque Santeiro," "Dona," and "Verdades e Mentiras" on the soundtrack for the nationwide TV Globo's highly successful soap opera Roque Santeiro came the popular consecration. After a while the rock rural was substituted by a more urban/contemporary/pop sound, which attracted commercial bands like Roupa Nova (who re-recorded "Dona"). Commemorating 15 years together, the duo toured Brazil in 1987, which yielded the live album Quinze Anos Juntos. In 1997, they celebrated their 25 years of association with Rio-Bahia, which comprises different phases of this influential duo. In 2001, a project with Rodrix re-approached rock rural.
© Alvaro Neder /TiVo