Retratos

Elza Soares, born Elza da Conceição Gomes, was a titan of Brazilian music, renowned for her powerful, distinctive voice and her trailblazing career that spanned over six decades. Hailing from Rio de Janeiro, Soares was one of the few Black women to achieve widespread fame in Brazil during the 1960s and '70s, breaking barriers and inspiring generations with her resilience and artistry. Her musical journey began with her debut single "Se Acaso Você Chegasse" in 1959, and she went on to explore various genres, including samba, MPB, and bossa nova, always leaving her unique mark. Soares' life was marked by both triumph and tragedy, but she persevered, becoming a symbol of strength and resistance against oppression. In 1999, her immense talent was recognized globally when she was named Singer of the Millennium alongside Tina Turner by BBC Radio. Soares' legacy endures as one of the greatest voices in Brazilian music history, celebrated for her powerful performances and her unwavering spirit.