The Best Of Arlindo Cruz (Brazil) - Ras Sjamaan

Tracklist:

0:00 O Que É O Amor
3:32 O Brasil É Isso Aí
8:12 Sargento
11:16 Pelo Litoral
15:27 Oferendas - Pra Gente Se Amar
18:14 Batuqueiro - Meu Cumpadre
26:01 Se Eu Encontrar Com Ela
29:40 Tô A Bangu
33:20 Você é o Espinho e Não a Flor
36:56 Ela Sambou, Eu Dancei
40:25 O Mundo em Que Renasci
44:04 O Bem

Arlindo Cruz was a highly influential Brazilian musician, singer, and songwriter in the samba and pagode genres who passed away on August 8, 2025, at the age of 66. He was a pivotal figure in the pagode movement and a former member of the esteemed group Grupo Fundo de Quintal.

Career and Legacy

Early Life and Career: Born in the Madureira suburb of Rio de Janeiro, Arlindo Cruz was immersed in music from a young age, receiving his first cavaquinho (a small four-stringed instrument) from his father at age six. He began his professional career shortly thereafter, eventually joining Grupo Fundo de Quintal in 1980.

Influence: During his 12 years with the group, and in his subsequent solo career, Cruz became known as one of the most important figures in samba and pagode. He was considered a "samba poet," with over 450 of his songs recorded by various artists, including Zeca Pagodinho, Maria Rita, and Beth Carvalho.

Key Works: His notable songs include "Meu Lugar," "Será Que É Amor," "O Bem," and "O Show Tem Que Continuar". His album Herança Popular was nominated for a Latin Grammy Award in 2015.