Jovelina Perola Negra, born Jovelina Faria Belfort on July 21, 1944, in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, was a distinguished samba singer who left a significant mark on Brazilian music with her soulful voice and charismatic stage presence. Her stage name "Perola Negra" (Black Pearl) aptly described her smooth and precious vocal talent that shone within the samba genre. Jovelina began her musical career in the late 1970s and early 1980s, a time during which she was part of the vibrant and competitive samba scene of Rio de Janeiro's working-class neighborhoods.
Despite the intense competition, Jovelina emerged as a beloved figure in the samba community. She made her recording debut in the mid-1980s, and her deep, rich voice quickly won her fans and recognition. Albums such as "Luz do Repente" and "Sorriso Aberto" showcased her ability to blend traditional samba with contemporary influences, resonating with both purists and new audiences. A champion of the samba de roda and partido-alto subgenres, Jovelina's music encapsulated the spirit of the Brazilian Carnival and the daily struggles and joys of life in the favelas. She was not only a musician but also a cultural icon who represented the resilience and vibrancy of Afro-Brazilian culture. Although she passed away on November 2, 1998, Jovelina Perola Negra's legacy lives on through her stirring recordings, like "Sangue Bom" and "Amigos Chegados," and the many sambistas she has influenced. Her music remains a testament to her talent and her important role in the history of samba.
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