On Saturday night, December 28, the popular television show Altas Horas aired its final episode of the year with grandeur, commemoratively celebrating the 40th anniversary of Brazil's vibrant Axé Music. The special, hosted by Serginho Groisman, became a nostalgic affair, presenting performances from iconic artists who defined the genre and left indelible marks on Brazil's musical history.
One of the standout moments was the electrifying performance by Sarajane, who revived her classic hit “A Roda.” Known as one of the pioneer figures of Axé, Sarajane engaged with the audience, who joined her in celebrating the music of their youth, evoking the lively essence of the 1980s. She expressed her joy during the performance, saying, "I always say music has the power to unite generations. Singing these songs today and seeing people of different ages connect with them is something magical.”
The night also featured other giants of Axé Music, including Daniela Mercury, who transported viewers back to her breakthrough years, performing her renowned hit “O Canto da Cidade.” Mercury reflected on her career beginnings since 1983, highlighting the increased representation of women within the genre. “At the time, there was a lack of female representation, but now we see significant progress,” she noted.
Adding to the diversity of performances, Denny Denan from Timbalada teamed up with Buja Ferreira to deliver the beloved classic “Beija-Flor,” showcasing the impactful socio-cultural legacy of the Timbalada project, initiated by Carlinhos Brown. Meanwhile, the legendary Armandinho moved the audience with “Chame Gente,” recounting the origins of the trio elétrico phenomenon, characteristically tied to the Carnival celebrations across Brazil.
The musical feast continued as the Companhia do Pagode brought high spirits with their performance of “Sanduiche,” and popular group É o Tchan set the stage ablaze with their enthusiastic medley of hits, including “Bambolê” and “Dança do Põe, Põe.” Márcio Victor of Psirico reminisced about his roots with the Bloco Badauê and performed the hit “Lepo Lepo,” once again captivating the viewers.
Not only did the event achieve remarkable throwbacks, but it also included rich tributes to the origins and significance of Axé Music. Reinaldinho, another key figure of the genre, energized the crowd with “Liberar Geral,” recounting stories from the Terra Samba days. Meanwhile, the celebrated group Olodum highlighted its significance with “Faraó, Divindade do Egito,” showcasing the persistent vibrancy and cultural relevance of Axé.
Adding unique flair to the evening, the Orquestra Sinfônica de Heliópolis, recognized as the first of its kind formed within a favela, performed alongside artists, creating enchanting renditions of the classic tunes and amplifying the event's artistic depth. Their participation was indicative of the genre's evolution and the inclusive nature of Brazilian music.
The show not only highlighted musical talents but also served as a poignant reminder of the cultural heritage and the community's heart. Bira Jackson from Olodum expressed gratitude for the transformative impact Axé Music has had on his life and reflected on the once-in-a-lifetime encounter with the King of Pop, Michael Jackson, during his visit to Brazil: "I am very grateful to Olodum, to what happened to me, and the coming of Michael Jackson to Brazil, which was a unique and magical moment."
Altas Horas closed with Sarajane's heartfelt message: “Music has memory, has history. And I am very grateful to be part of it. Thank you for living these moments with me.” The remarks instilled nostalgia among those engaged, reinforcing the enduring spirit of Axé, its artists, and the audiences who have witnessed its evolution.
Broadcast live at 10:25 PM, immediately following the novela Mania de Você, this special Altas Horas episode not only celebrated the past but also promised new journeys as artists hinted at upcoming projects reflective of the genre's dynamic nature. Sarajane herself teased her working new album melding classic and contemporary styles, stating, “I can’t wait to share it with you all.”
This festive gathering not only spotlighted legendary performances but also reconnected audiences with the cultural fabric of Brazilian music, cherishing the cross-generational connection framed through Axé. The night was undeniably more than just entertainment; it became a celebration of identity, community, and the timeless magic of music.
