Luiz Carlos da Vila (1949–2008) was a revered Brazilian samba singer, songwriter, and musician hailing from Rio de Janeiro, whose soulful compositions and performances captured the spirit of his country's rich cultural tapestry. Born Luiz Carlos Baptista, in the neighborhood of Bonsucesso, he became a pillar of the samba community, earning recognition not only for his stirring voice but also for his poignant lyrics that often delved into themes of love, social justice, and Afro-Brazilian identity.

Luiz Carlos da Vila's musical journey was deeply rooted in the traditional samba circles and "rodas de samba," where his talent blossomed, eventually leading to a nationwide acclaim. His works, such as "Um Cantar a Vontade," "A Luz do Vencedor," "Benza, Deus," "Pra Esfriar a Cabeça...," and the eponymous album "Luiz Carlos Da Vila," showcase a masterful blend of classic samba rhythms with contemporary Brazilian sounds, all underpinned by his distinctly poetic approach to songwriting. Despite his passing in 2008, Da Vila's legacy endures, with his music continuing to inspire new generations of artists and samba aficionados.