Gerson King Combo, often hailed as the "Brazilian James Brown," was a prominent figure in the Brazilian soul and funk music scene that gained traction in the late 1960s and 1970s. Born Gerson Côrtes on September 26, 1943, in Rio de Janeiro, he started his career as a dancer on a television show before moving on to sing with rock and soul bands. His powerful voice and charismatic stage presence soon established him as a leading name in Brazilian soul music, a genre that blended elements of African-American soul with the diverse sounds of Brazilian music.

His eponymous debut album, "Gerson King Combo," came out in the early 70s, establishing his reputation as a force in the Brazilian music industry. He used his music not only to get people dancing but also to address social issues, touching on themes like racial equality and empowerment of the oppressed, which resonated deeply in a country that had just come through a long period of military dictatorship. Notoriously known for delivering high-energy performances, Gerson released subsequent albums, including "Gerson King Combo II," combining heavy funk grooves with lush brass arrangements characteristic of the era. Though perhaps not as well known internationally as some of his contemporaries, Gerson King Combo remained an influential figure in Brazilian music until his passing in September 2020, fondly remembered for pioneering a musical movement and inspiring a future generation of musicians. His latter releases, including the lively "Eu parei" and the groove-infused "Soul da Paz," are a testament to the enduring appeal and vitality of his music.