Ivete Sangalo, one of Brazil's most beloved musical icons, stole the show during Carnaval 2025 with heartfelt performances and tributes to her friend and fellow artist, Preta Gil, who is currently battling cancer. The festive atmosphere was palpable as Ivete led her "Pipoca da Veveta" on February 28, 2025, captivating the audience along the Dodô circuit (Barra-Ondina) with her hit songs.
Opening her set with "O Verão Bateu em Minha Porta", Ivete immersed the crowd in her energetic rhythm, which also included other popular tracks like "Só Love Na Cabeça," "Tum Tum Tum Tugurungudum," and "Levada Louca." Her passion for her craft was evident, providing not just entertainment, but also inspiration during this vibrant period.
Throughout the celebrations, Ivete made it clear she was not just there to perform; she had another important mission. During her show, she paused to pay tribute to Preta, who has been the center of attention not just for her musical legacy but also for her recent health struggles. Ivete dedicated touching words to her friend, expressing gratitude and love.
"Um grande dia de gratidão, de gratidão por você, Preta, nos ajudar a suportar uma caminhada difícil que é a sua," Ivete began, acknowledging the strength and resilience Preta has shown. "Você é uma mulher extraordinária. Que sorte da sua família ter uma Preta Gil para chamar de sua. Minha irmã, você não tem ideia da alegria que é pra mim entrar nesse Carnaval e dar de cara com você, aproveitando sua vida, porque você merece viver linda, maravilhosa, com tudo que for maravilhoso. Eu te amo, minha pretinha," Ivete proclaimed, her words evoking tears and cheers alike.
Preta Gil, the daughter of legendary musician Gilberto Gil, has been undergoing treatment for cancer, having recently been discharged from the hospital after spending over 55 days recuperated and going through extensive medical procedures. She made her appearance at Carnaval, beaming from the camarote (VIP box) Expresso 2222, sharing her presence and joy with family and friends, like influencer Gominho and businesswoman Flora Gil.
During another beautiful moment at the carnival, when Ivete took the stage to perform her traditional "Pipoca" event, she again underscored her affection for Preta. "Você conseguiu proteger todos nós da dor e da angústia, porque você é uma mulher extraordinária!" she proclaimed. Ivete's performance, coupled with heartfelt declarations, made for unforgettable memories at Salvador's Carnaval.
The response from the crowd was overwhelmingly positive. Fans praised both artists for their courage and camaraderie, lending emotional weight to this year's festivities. Ivete's speeches about Preta have highlighted the spirit of support and love inherent within their artistic community, showing how powerful bonds can transcend even the toughest of circumstances.
Many artists joined Ivete to honor Preta during the festivities. Tatau, known for his uplifting music, offered his support during the "Bloco Os Mascarados" procession, expressing wishes of “luz, saúde, prosperidade e longevidade" for Preta. This camaraderie among artists enhances the atmosphere of Carnaval as they come together, celebrating life and resilience.
Even contemporary artist Ludmilla paid homage to Preta, publicly expressing her admiration and joy for her recovery. "Eu te amo, você merece todas as homenagens do mundo. Estou muito feliz pela sua volta para gente. E pela sua recuperação. Eu te amo muito, muito, muito, muito, muito, muito," she stated, reverberatively affirming the admiration held for Preta within the music community.
While swirling through the joyous chaos of Carnaval, Preta reflected on her health battle, exclaiming her happiness to be partaking this year: "Estou tão feliz, gente, só Deus sabe o quanto eu lutei pra estar aqui, literalmente! E consegui!" After this powerful experience, she also expressed her plans to return to treatment, aiming to balance recovery with life’s joys, which she plans to do with even greater focus.
Meanwhile, Ivete will continue to perform throughout the carnival, with her next concert scheduled on March 4th at the Circuit Osmar (Campo Grande), promising fans more of her electrifying presence. Notably, she is also slated for appearances at notable blocks during the festive season.
The Carnaval Anota Bahia 2025 celebrates music, friendship, and the resilience of the human spirit, thoroughly embodied by both Ivete and Preta. It serves as a powerful reminder of joy even against adversity, knit tightly through the shared experiences of love and music. This year's Carnaval not only captivates through dance and rhythm but also inspires hope, light, and unwavering support around those who need it most.
Indeed, Ivete Sangalo's performances are about more than just entertainment; they are orchestrated expressions of gratitude and solidarity during challenging times. The messages of love between these artists and their supporters live on beyond the beats and rhythms of the Carnaval, etching indelibly onto the hearts of those who witness the magic of these moments together.