Celebrated for its captivating rhythm and expressive movements, samba is the soul of Brazil. But before it went on to conquer hearts and mind across of the world, this musical genre was born of a rich cultural fusion. This is the history of samba and where to experience it to the full in Rio de Janeiro

Originally born in the working-class districts of
Rio de Janeiro
in the early 20

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century, samba has its roots in
Brazil
‘s cultural melting pot: this syncopated music, played mainly on percussion and strings, was inspired by African rhythms brought over by slaves. At the time, Brazil was undergoing a major transformation, and the Carioca neighbourhoods became cultural melting pots where Afro-Brazilian music came to life. Samba, the main musical genre inherited from this period, was further developed in the circle dances of West African communities, then mixed with European influences, particularly Portuguese. It takes its name from
semba
, a dance originating in Angola in which dance partners rub their bellies to the rhythm of percussion.

Samba, from the streets of Rio to the heart of the nation

In Rio de Janeiro, the Pedra do Sal neighbourhood is popularly called the birthplace of samba. Located close to the port, this area nicknamed “Little Africa” was, at the turn of the 20

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century, a district mainly populated with freed slaves and migrants. This was where samba emerged, evolving in the
rodas de samba
, casual outdoor meetings centered around music and dancing; early samba performances featured impromptu percussion and strong vocalists singing about liberty, sorrow, and happiness.

Samba quickly came to be linked with street celebrations,
carnivals and popular gatherings
The style was initially created within the
favelas
Before being filtered into the middle class and eventually becoming a nationwide sensation, the 1920s were pivotal when the first samba schools emerged. They played a significant role in the Rio Carnival parades. Schools like Mangueira and Portela not only preserved but also promoted samba culture, revitalizing the genre through innovative dance routines, beats, and outfits.

During the 1930s and 1940s, samba evolved into an emblem of Brazilian identity, largely due to celebrated artists like Noel Rosa, Cartola, Ary Barroso, and Carmen Miranda, who introduced samba to international audiences. This era saw the music style becoming pervasive via platforms such as radio broadcasts and film screenings, extending its reach far past Brazil’s frontiers. In the following decade, bossa nova—a more mellow offshoot of samba—came onto the scene, adding another layer of depth to Brazil’s rich musical landscape.

Where might one experience samba in Rio de Janeiro?

If you’re eager to dive into the realm of samba, Rio de Janeiro should be your destination. As the origin and global epicenter of samba, the city vibrates rhythmically all year round, yet it peaks frenetically in February during Carnaval. It’s then when top-tier samba schools vie for glory through extravagant displays at the Sambadrome Marquês de Sapucaí—a lengthy thoroughfare equipped with outdoor seating areas allowing performers to showcase elaborate spectacles. Don’t miss out on witnessing these one-of-a-kind shows as soon as possible!

For the remainder of the year, Rio offers numerous venues where you can experience this musical genre. Notable spots include the Lapa district.
Santa Teresa
Neighborhoods bustling with vibrant bars and samba clubs offer ideal settings for witnessing groups of musicians perform live, losing yourself in dancing, and soaking up the energetic atmosphere of this genre. To experience Brazilian beats in Lapa, make your way to Rio Scenarium, one of the area’s premier samba venues housed in a historic building from the 19th century.

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-a century-old structure featuring a patio. Located in Pedra do Sal,
rodas de samba
continue uninterrupted each Monday night, keeping the custom alive in a welcoming and jovial environment.

Sambadrome Marquês de Sapucaí

Rua Marquês de Sapucaí

Santo Cristo

Rio de Janeiro RJ, 20220-007

www.sambadrome.com/