Neguinho da Beija-Flor, a celebrated samba singer, will perform for the last time at Rio’s carnival, marking the end of a 50-year legacy. His retirement, prompted by exhaustion, has taken many by surprise. Throughout his career, he faced and overcame racial adversity while firmly establishing Beija-Flor as a championship-winning samba school. Neguinho’s emotional farewell is set to resonate with the carnival community.
On the second night of Rio de Janeiro’s world-renowned carnival, 100,000 spectators will gather to witness the final performance of Neguinho da Beija-Flor, a legendary samba singer, aged 75, who has led Beija-Flor school parades for half a century. Neguinho, whose real name is Luiz Antônio Feliciano, announced his retirement after an illustrious career that captivated the samba community and the wider Brazilian public.
Neguinho expressed his anticipation for retirement during his last rehearsal, stating, “I can’t wait to retire. After this Monday’s parade, c’est fini.” His decision to retire surprised many, as he has been a staple in Rio’s carnival traditions for decades. He cited exhaustion from the demanding role of a samba-school singer as a primary reason for his retirement.
The role of a samba singer during parades is akin to that of a marathon runner, requiring immense energy to keep the audience engaged for over an hour. Neguinho admitted that singing at such events has become increasingly challenging with age; he remarked that the physical toll is significant.
Originating from humble beginnings in Nova Iguaçu, Neguinho began his career at age 22 while serving in the air force. Despite facing racial challenges, he adopted the nickname “Neguinho” affectionately, reclaiming it from derogatory contexts. He emphasized the importance of living life fully amidst struggles: “I’ve suffered a lot of racism in my life and career, and I’ve fought a lot, but I also think we need to live.”
His breakthrough came in 1976, stepping in for a late lead singer, ultimately leading Beija-Flor to its first championship title. Over the years, he has contributed to the school winning a total of 14 titles. His iconic calls of “Olha a Beija-Flor aí, gente!” resonate among fans faithful to the samba tradition.
Financial support from local gambling figures has historically bolstered the carnival’s samba schools, yet Neguinho maintained that this was pivotal for the carnival’s grandeur: “If it weren’t for the jogo do bicho, maybe today Rio’s carnival wouldn’t be the spectacle it is.” Unlike many contemporary artists who frequently switch samba schools, Neguinho’s unwavering commitment to Beija-Flor is noteworthy.
As he prepares to retire, Neguinho has remained grounded, asserting that he never received a salary from the samba school. He plans to continue his musical journey with new projects, including an upcoming album. Initially calm about his retirement, he expressed his emotions during rehearsals, hinting at the weight of the moment.
On his final night, Neguinho has devised a poignant farewell plan involving a banner that reads, “Thank you very much.” He shared, “She (his therapist) told me to just open the banner and say nothing. Otherwise, I won’t be able to sing,” illustrating both his vulnerability and dedication, concluding a heartfelt chapter in samba history.
Neguinho da Beija-Flor’s retirement signifies the end of an era in Rio’s samba community. After 50 years, his remarkable journey as a singer has inspired many amid the challenges of racism and personal struggles. His legacy will continue through his music, and his farewell performance will undoubtedly evoke deep emotions among fans and fellow artists alike.
Original Source: www.theguardian.com
