Voices of Brazil — Raul Seixas
The Voice that was the Essence of Brazil
The Childhood of Raul Seixas
Raul Seixas was born on June 28, 1945, in Salvador, capital of Bahia. From an early age, he demonstrated a curious and restless personality, characteristics that would mark his entire life. Son of Raul Varella Seixas, an engineer, and Maria Eugênia Seixas, a housewife, Raul grew up in an environment that valued education and culture. However, his penchant for music and irreverent behavior stood out from his early years.
During his childhood, Raul was an introverted boy, often lost in his own thoughts. He loved reading and, influenced by his father, began to explore the vast universe of literature. His favorite authors included classics such as Jules Verne and Edgar Allan Poe, whose works stimulated his imagination and curiosity. Furthermore, Raul’s mother, Maria Eugênia, encouraged his artistic passions, supporting him in his musical and literary activities.
It was also in his childhood that Raul Seixas had his first contact with music. Fascinated by rock’n’roll, he started listening to records by Elvis Presley and Little Richard, which were new at the time. This musical genre, which mixed different rhythms and influences, captivated young Raul and planted the seed of what would be his future career. With a guitar he received as a child, he began to learn his first chords, often self-taught.
At school, Raul Seixas was an average student, but his intelligence and creativity were remarkable. Although his academic performance was not exceptional, he always excelled in activities that required originality and critical thinking. His writing skills and ability to tell stories caught the attention of teachers and colleagues, who already noticed a special talent in him.
The relationship with his parents also significantly shaped Raul’s childhood. His father, a man of strict principles, expected his son to pursue a traditional career. However, Raul’s more understanding and encouraging mother allowed him to explore his artistic passions. This balance between discipline and freedom helped form the basis of Raul Seixas’ multifaceted personality.
In addition to books and music, Raul Seixas’s childhood was marked by an insatiable curiosity about the world around him. He liked to observe people, understand their motivations, and discover what made them act a certain way. These observations would later be reflected in his compositions, which often addressed complex and philosophical themes in an accessible and engaging way.
The Career of Raul Seixas
The beginning of Raul Seixas’ career is marked by musical discovery and experimentation, moments that defined the artist’s first steps towards stardom. In the mid-1960s, Raul began to become more actively involved in music, forming his first band, The Panthers, with school friends. This band, which would later become the Panteras, was strongly influenced by North American rock’n’roll, especially by artists such as Elvis Presley, Little Richard and Jerry Lee Lewis.
The Panteras gained local notoriety in Salvador, playing at parties and events. It was during this period that Raul Seixas began to stand out as a talented composer and performer. His ability to mix different musical styles, along with his charismatic stage presence, quickly caught the attention of the public and other musicians. In 1968, the band released their first and only album, “Raulzito e os Panteras”, which, although it did not achieve great commercial success, demonstrated Raul’s creative potential and his ability to innovate within the rock genre.
However, the real turning point for Raul Seixas came in 1971, when he moved to Rio de Janeiro and began working as a producer at the CBS record label (now Sony Music). During his time at CBS, Raul had the opportunity to collaborate with numerous artists and hone his music production skills. This experience was crucial to his artistic development, allowing him to better understand the music market and recording techniques that he would later apply to his own works.
It was also at CBS that Raul Seixas met writer Paulo Coelho, with whom he would form a lasting and highly fruitful creative partnership. Together, they began writing songs that reflected a deep spiritual and philosophical quest, as well as a sharp critique of society. The collaboration between Raul and Paulo resulted in songs that would become classics of Brazilian rock, full of symbolism and esoteric references.
In 1972, Raul Seixas released his first solo album, “Os 24 Maiores Sucessos da Era do Rock”. This work, although mainly composed of rock’n’roll covers, was an important step in consolidating his solo career. However, it was in 1973, with the release of “Krig-Ha, Bandolo!”, that Raul Seixas really emerged as one of the main names in Brazilian music. The album, which includes iconic tracks such as “Ouro de Tolo” and “Metamorfose Ambulante”, presented the public with Raul’s unique vision, mixing rock with elements of Brazilian culture and addressing deep and provocative themes.
During these early years, Raul Seixas established the foundations of his artistic identity and consolidated his reputation as an innovator and rebel within Brazilian popular music. His early work demonstrated his ability to challenge norms and create something truly original, characteristics that would continue to define his career in the decades to come.
During the middle of his career, Raul Seixas solidified his position as one of the most innovative and controversial artists in Brazilian music. This period, which spans the second half of the 1970s to the early 1980s, was marked by intense musical production, significant collaborations and personal challenges.
After the success of “Krig-Ha, Bandolo!”, Raul Seixas continued to release albums that reflected his unique vision and his ability to combine rock’n’roll with elements of Brazilian music. In 1974, he released “Gita”, one of the most important albums of his career. The album featured songs that became instant classics, such as the title track “Gita” and “Sociedade Alternativa”, which became anthems of a generation that sought freedom and questioned the status quo.
At that time, the partnership with Paulo Coelho was at its peak. Together, they created lyrics that addressed mystical, esoteric and philosophical themes, exploring concepts such as the search for identity and criticism of social structures. In 1975, Raul released “Novo Aeon”, an album that further delved into these themes and consolidated his unmistakable style.
However, Raul Seixas’ career was not without difficulties. In 1977, he faced health problems resulting from his intense lifestyle, marked by alcohol and drug abuse. Even so, his musical production did not diminish. In 1977, he released “O Dia em que a Terra Parou”, another album that contained hits that would go down in history, such as “Maluco Beleza” and “Sapato 36”.
The 1980s began with ups and downs for Raul Seixas. In 1980, he released “Abre-te Sésamo”, an album that showed his resilience and ability to reinvent himself, despite personal and professional challenges. Songs from this period continued to reflect his personal experiences and his critical view of the world around him.
In addition to solo albums, Raul has also been involved in several important collaborations. He worked with artists such as Marcelo Nova, from the group Camisa de Vênus, on a project that sought to renew his music and introduce it to a new generation of fans. This partnership resulted in the album “Panela do Diabo”, released in 1989, shortly before his death.
Despite the difficulties, the middle of Raul Seixas’ career was marked by incessant creativity and prolific musical production. He continued to defy convention, explore new musical territory, and inspire a legion of fans with his music and message. During this period, Raul consolidated his legacy as one of the most important and influential artists in the history of Brazilian music.
The end of Raul Seixas’ career was a period of intense transformation, both in his personal life and in his musical production. Despite facing numerous health challenges and problems arising from his lifestyle, Raul continued to work and leave his mark on Brazilian music until his final days.
In the second half of the 1980s, Raul Seixas’ health was deteriorating rapidly. Alcohol and drug abuse over the years had taken its toll, and Raul suffered from chronic pancreatitis, as well as other health problems. Even so, his passion for music remained unwavering. In 1987, he released “Uah-Bap-Lu-Bap-Lah-Béin-Bum!”, an album that showed his ability to reinvent himself, bringing new sounds and introspective lyrics.
One of the most memorable moments at the end of his career was his partnership with Marcelo Nova, leader of the rock band Camisa de Vênus. Together, they performed a series of shows throughout Brazil, reviving the public’s interest in Raul’s work. This collaboration resulted in the album “A Panela do Diabo”, released in 1989. The album, which mixed Marcelo Nova’s provocative style with Raul’s genius, brought songs that reflected the singer’s state of mind at that stage, such as “Carpinteiro do Universe” and “Garbage Banquet”.
Despite being weakened, Raul Seixas demonstrated remarkable creative strength. His performance in shows and the quality of his compositions showed that, even in his final years, he continued to be an artist of immense talent and relevance. The partnership with Marcelo Nova, in particular, was seen as a triumphant return, showing that Raul still had a lot to offer the Brazilian music scene.
Unfortunately, Raul Seixas’ health problems worsened. On August 21, 1989, at the age of 44, he died in São Paulo, victim of a cardiac arrest caused by acute pancreatitis. His death marked the end of an era, but his legacy continued to grow. Raul Seixas left a vast discography and a legion of fans who perpetuate his memory and his music.
Raul Seixas’ impact on Brazilian culture is immeasurable. Even after his death, his songs continue to be heard, analyzed and reinterpreted by new generations. “Maluco Beleza” has become a timeless icon, a symbol of freedom, creativity and protest. His rebellious spirit and unique vision live on in the work he left behind, inspiring artists and admirers around the world.
Aspects Beyond Life as a Singer
Raul Seixas was much more than just a singer and songwriter. His influence and impact extended to many areas, including philosophy, literature, and popular culture. He was a true thinker and cultural provocateur, who used his musical platform to explore and question deep questions about life, existence and society.
Philosophy and Esotericism
Raul Seixas had a great interest in philosophy and esotericism, which was reflected both in his music and in his personal life. He was deeply influenced by philosophical currents such as Gnosticism, esotericism and the occult. Through his songs and interviews, Raul expressed a constant search for answers to existential and spiritual questions. His partnership with writer Paulo Coelho in the 1970s was an especially fruitful period for these explorations. Together, they created songs full of esoteric symbolism and philosophical reflections, such as “Gita” and “Alternative Society”, inspired by the work of Aleister Crowley and his concept of Thelema.
Literature and Writing
In addition to being a musician, Raul Seixas was an avid reader and writer. He had a vast and diverse library, which included everything from literary classics to works on the occult and philosophy. His passion for reading began in childhood and remained with him throughout his life. This literary background profoundly influenced his compositions, which often contained literary and philosophical references. Raul also wrote short stories and essays, where he explored his ideas and theories on various subjects.
Culture and Society
Raul Seixas was a fierce critic of society and power structures. His music and his life were a constant reflection of his resistance to established norms and his search for individual freedom. He challenged social and political conventions, promoting ideas of autonomy and rebellion. His “Alternative Society” proposed a way of living that rejected conformity and repression, inspiring many to question the rules imposed by society.
Influence and Cultural Legacy
Raul Seixas’ impact on Brazilian culture goes beyond music. He became a symbol of resistance and authenticity, influencing not only musicians but also writers, artists and thinkers. His image of “Maluco Beleza” is a cultural icon, representing the fight for freedom of expression and the appreciation of individuality. Raul is also remembered for his role in popularizing rock in Brazil, paving the way for future generations of artists in the genre.
Raul Seixas’ Most Successful Songs
Raul Seixas is widely recognized for a series of songs that have become true anthems of Brazilian culture. Among these, “Gita”, “Cowboy Fora da Lei” and “Tente Outra Vez” stand out not only for their commercial success, but also for the depth of their lyrics and their ability to resonate with different generations. These songs capture the essence of what made Raul such a unique and influential figure in Brazilian music.
Gita
Released in 1974, the song “Gita” is one of Raul Seixas’s masterpieces. Inspired by the sacred Hindu text “Bhagavad Gita”, the song explores themes of self-knowledge and transcendence. Composed in partnership with Paulo Coelho, “Gita” reflects the spiritual and philosophical search that characterized much of Raul’s work. The powerful and introspective lyrics speak about human identity and essence, encapsulating the message that each person is a manifestation of the divine. Musically, the song combines rock with elements of Brazilian music, creating a sound that is both accessible and profound. “Gita” became a milestone in Raul Seixas’ career and a timeless classic of Brazilian music.
Outlaw Cowboy
“Cowboy Fora da Lei”, released in 1987, is one of Raul Seixas’ most emblematic songs, known for his social and political criticism. The song addresses the figure of the outsider, someone who lives outside the norms established by society. With lyrics that mix humor and irony, Raul puts himself in the shoes of a cowboy who rejects convention and lives according to his own rules. The song questions power structures and social hypocrisy, recurring themes in Raul’s work. “Cowboy Fora da Lei” stands out for its catchy melody and libertarian message, reaffirming Raul’s stance as an artist who has always challenged the status quo.
Try again
“Tente Outra Vez”, released in 1975 on the album “Novo Aeon”, is one of Raul Seixas’ most inspiring and motivational songs. Composed in partnership with Paulo Coelho and Marcelo Motta, the song is a true anthem of resilience and perseverance. The lyrics encourage listeners not to give up in the face of difficulties and to continue fighting for their dreams. “Try Again” has a universal message of hope and determination that resonates deeply with anyone who has faced challenges in life. The powerful melody and Raul’s emotional interpretation make this song one of the most memorable and beloved in his repertoire.
I Was Born 10 Thousand Years Ago
Released on the album “Ha 10 Mil Anos Atrás” in 1976, “Eu Nasci Há 10 Mil Anos Atrás” is one of Raul Seixas’ most iconic songs. The song presents a narrative in which the protagonist claims to have witnessed historical and mythical events over the millennia, suggesting ancestral wisdom and a cynical view of humanity. The lyrics, co-written by Paulo Coelho, are rich in cultural and historical references, mixing facts and fiction in a provocative way. Musically, the song combines rock elements with Brazilian rhythms, creating a unique sound that has become characteristic of Raul. “I Was Born 10 Thousand Years Ago” stands out for its reflection on the human condition and history, inviting listeners to question their own perceptions of reality.
Crazy Beauty
“Maluco Beleza”, released in 1977 on the album “O Dia Em Que a Terra Parou”, is one of Raul Seixas’ most popular and celebrated songs. The song has become an anthem for those who feel on the margins of society and for those who seek authenticity and personal freedom. The lyrics celebrate madness as a way to escape the shackles of social conformity and find true beauty in life. With a captivating melody and a powerful message, “Maluco Beleza” encapsulates Raul’s rebellious and libertarian spirit, making it one of the most beloved songs by his fans.
Walking metamorphosis
Released on the album “Krig-Ha, Bandolo!” in 1973, “Metamorfose Ambulante” is perhaps the song that most encapsulates Raul Seixas’ personal philosophy. The lyrics express a rejection of certainties and a celebration of constant change, reflecting Raul’s view that life is a continuous process of transformation. “I’d rather be this walking metamorphosis than have that old opinion about everything” is one of the most quoted lines and represents the essence of the artist’s thoughts. With a simple but effective musical structure, the song became a manifesto of the search for authenticity and personal evolution.
Fly on the Soup
“Mosca na Sopa”, also from the album “Krig-Ha, Bandolo!” from 1973, is one of Raul Seixas’ most experimental and provocative songs. The song uses the metaphor of the fly to represent the uncomfortable and insistent presence of the individual who defies norms and disrupts the established order. The lyrics play with the idea of being a “fly” in people’s lives, suggesting the need to question and bother to bring about change. Musically, “Mosca na Sopa” mixes rock with elements of blues and Brazilian music, creating a vibrant and energetic atmosphere. The song stands out for its originality and Raul’s characteristic humor.
A Brief Comment
his article sought to present an overview of the life and work of Raul Seixas, highlighting some of the greatest successes of his career. The songs discussed here, such as “Gita”, “Cowboy Fora da Lei”, “Tente Outra Vez”, “Eu Nasci Há 10 Mil Anos Atrás”, “Maluco Beleza”, “Metamorfose Ambulante” and “Mosca na Sopa”, are personal choices of the author and represent only a fraction of Raul’s vast and rich discography.
Raul Seixas was an artist with multiple facets, whose influence transcends music and permeates the culture and thinking of several generations. His ability to mix rock’n’roll with elements of Brazilian music and his lyrics full of philosophy, social criticism and spirituality make him an eternal icon. His songs continue to resonate deeply, inspiring and moving people of all ages.
For those who wish to explore more of Raul Seixas’ work, I leave a recommended playlist on Spotify at the end of this article, with some of my favorite songs and others that capture the essence of “Maluco Beleza”.
Raul Seixas was not just a singer and songwriter; he was a poet, a philosopher and, above all, a provocateur who was never afraid to question the status quo. His authenticity and courage to live by his own rules make him an example for us all. Raul taught us the importance of being true to ourselves, of constantly seeking transformation and of finding beauty in our own madness.
His work lives on, a testament to the genius of a man who defied convention and left an immortal legacy. Raul Seixas left us too soon, but his music lives on, eternally relevant and inspiring. May we always remember and celebrate “Maluco Beleza”, whose voice and vision will never fade.
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