Hey New Yorkers!!!
Last weekend, I had the incredible opportunity to attend SummerStage in Central Park—a remarkable celebration of Brazilian and Portuguese culture. This event brought together some of the most prominent names in Portuguese-language music, creating an unforgettable experience filled with vibrant rhythms, mesmerizing melodies, and an electric atmosphere. From the legendary Marisa Monte to the captivating performances by Joana Amendoira and Fred Martins, along with the incredible talents of Music from the Sole, DJ Lara Gerin, and the Afro-Brazilian percussion group Mambembé, the SummerStage program was a true homage to the rich musical heritage of Brazil and Portugal.
Marisa Monte: A Timeless Legend:
Kicking off the evening was the incomparable Marisa Monte, a five-time Latin GRAMMY winner and one of Brazil’s most iconic voices. With her latest album, “Portas,” released in 2021, Marisa proved that her musical prowess has only grown with time. Her masterful blend of MPB (música popular brasileira) resonated through Central Park, enchanting the audience with her bright and buoyant performance. It was a privilege to witness her grace the stage and witness firsthand why she is such a beloved figure in Brazilian music.
The #SummerStage had an amazing line up on Sunday 07/02. Check it out:
Joana Amendoira and Fred Martins: An Atlantic Fusion:
The duo of Joana Amendoira and Fred Martins transported us on a musical journey that spanned the Atlantic Ocean. Their fusion of Brazilian fados and melodies created a captivating experience, as they showcased works from their latest albums, “Na Volte la Mare” and “Ultramarino.” Collaborating with acclaimed writer Tiago Torres da Silva, they painted a musical tapestry that bridged cultures and evoked emotions. It was a testament to the power of music to transcend borders and connect people.
Music from the Sole: Tapping into Afro-Brazilian Dance:
Taking the stage with boundless energy and infectious rhythm, Music from the Sole brought the art of tap dance to life. Their electrifying performance celebrated the deep-rooted connection between tap dance and Afro-Brazilian music and dance forms. By drawing upon samba, house dance, and passinho (Brazilian street funk), they demonstrated the lineage and shared influences of these vibrant art forms. It was a joyous display of talent, showcasing the universality of rhythm and movement. But They were unable to perform due to the rain.
DJ Lara Gerin: Setting the Groove:
Amidst the live performances, DJ Lara Gerin skillfully curated the atmosphere, keeping the energy high and the crowd moving. Her expert selections on the turntables blended contemporary beats with traditional sounds, creating a seamless fusion of musical styles. Her contribution added an extra layer of excitement and ensured that the spirit of celebration remained alive throughout the event.
Mambembé: The Heartbeat of Brazil:
No celebration of Brazilian culture would be complete without the captivating rhythms of Afro-Brazilian percussion. Mambembé, an Afro-Brazilian percussion group, brought their infectious beats and vibrant energy to the stage. Their performance was a true representation of the rich cultural heritage and rhythmic traditions deeply rooted in Brazil. The audience couldn’t help but surrender to the irresistible allure of their music, immersing themselves in the pulsating heartbeat of Brazil.
Attending SummerStage in Central Park was a transformative experience that celebrated the diverse and captivating music of Brazil and Portugal. From the timeless brilliance of Marisa Monte to the fusion of Brazilian and Portuguese influences by Joana Amendoira and Fred Martins, each performance transported us on a unique and enchanting musical journey. DJ Lara Gerin, and Mambembé added their own distinct flavors, weaving a tapestry of rhythm. I can’t wait to check all the line up.
I’m so glad that we have this event happening all Summer. SummerStage is definitely my favorite thing to do in NYC by the summer.
Check all infos about the next concerts here!!!
CosmopoliTips 