Nonato Buzar

Nonato Buzar was a celebrated Brazilian composer, arranger, singer, and record producer born on August 26, 1932, in Itapecuru Mirim, Maranhão, Brazil. He gained prominence in the 1960s and '70s, notably composing theme songs for popular Brazilian soap operas like *Irmãos Coragem* and *Vitória Vitória*. His distinctive work included the influential theme for *Verão Vermelho*, which was later covered by notable artists such as Santana and the Fania All Stars. Buzar released his self-titled debut album in 1970, featuring many of his soap opera themes, and followed it up with *O Primeiro Retrato* in 1972. His career was marked by political tension during Brazil's military dictatorship, leading to exile in France where he continued his musical journey with the group O País Tropical. His legacy includes collaborations with top Brazilian and international artists, and his music remains an important part of Brazilian popular music history.

Nonato Buzar passed away on February 2, 2014, in Rio de Janeiro, but his influence lives on through his compositions and recordings by artists such as Elis Regina, Jimmy Cliff, and Maria Rita. He was also a founding member of influential bands like A Turma da Pilantragem in the 1960s and later Nonato Buzar e O País Tropical. His contributions bridged Brazilian traditional sounds with progressive pop and political expression, making him a respected figure in Brazil’s rich musical landscape.