Gilberto Gil

Gilberto Gil

Gilberto Gil is a Brazilian singer, guitarist and songwriter from Salvador, Brazil. He is associated with bossa nova, MPB, pop rock, psychedelic pop and tropicália, and he is also known for his work as a singer-songwriter. He is a member of Doces Bárbaros and has recorded on the labels Gege and Geléia Geral.

Career

Gil begins his career as a bossa nova musician, then moves towards songs with stronger political awareness and social activism, working alongside Caetano Veloso. He becomes one of the major figures of the tropicália movement. João Gilberto records Gil’s song “Eu Vim da Bahia” on his João Gilberto LP.

During the 1960s, Gil and Veloso are arrested by the Brazilian military government for anti-government activities. After their release, they both move to London. While in exile, Gil plays with groups including Yes, Pink Floyd and The Incredible String Band, while continuing his solo work. In the 1970s he tours the United States and records an English-language album.

Music in the 1970s and 1980s

Gil broadens his sound in the 1970s by adding African and North American influences to his music. He continues to release a steady run of albums, including Realce and Refazenda. He also works with Jimmy Cliff. In 1980 he releases a cover of Bob Marley & the Wailers’ “No Woman, No Cry”, which becomes a major hit in Brazil and helps introduce reggae there.

Public life and collaborations

Gil remains active in music and in social causes. He is elected a city councillor in Salvador in 1989. In 1993 he releases Tropicália 2 with Caetano Veloso; the album includes a cover of Jimi Hendrix’s “Wait Until Tomorrow” and is regarded as one of his strongest later records, following the late 1960s period.

Minister of Culture and honours

When Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva takes office in 2003, he appoints Gil as Brazil’s Minister of Culture. Gil holds the post until 2008. While serving as minister, he releases “Refazenda”, “Rebento” and “Refavela” under the Creative Commons Sampling License.

In 2005 he receives the Polar Music Prize in Stockholm, becoming the first Latin American recipient of the award. He performs at an outdoor concert before the ceremony and again at the award show with Jimmy Cliff. Later in 2005 he receives the Légion d’honneur from the French government during Brazil’s Year in France.

Family

Gil’s daughter, Preta Gil, is also a musician.