Loalwa braz biography of martin

1. Childhood and Early Life
2. Career Beginnings
3. Rise to Fame with Kaoma
4. Controversy and Legacy
5. Later Career and Personal Life
6. The Lambada Dance

Childhood and Early Life

Loalva Braza Vieira, the Brazilian singer and songwriter, was born on June 3, 1953, in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Her parents, a conductor and a classical pianist, nurtured her musical talents from a young age. Loalva began playing the piano at four and singing at 13. Immersed in Brazilian rhythms, she developed innate musical abilities that were honed through practice and dedication.

Career Beginnings

Loalva's singing career began with performances in nightclubs in her hometown. Her talent caught the attention of renowned Brazilian artists Gil Gilberto and Caetano Veloso, who invited her to collaborate on their music. In 1985, she moved to Paris, where she launched her show, "Brésil en Fête." She performed on prestigious stages worldwide, including the Paradis Latin in Paris, Madison Square Garden in New York City, the London Palladium, and the Waldorf-Astoria in New York.

Rise to Fame with Kaoma

In 1989, Loalva joined the Franco-Brazilian pop group Kaoma. The group's debut single, "Lambada," released in the same year, became an international hit. Loalva's captivating vocals and the song's infectious rhythm propelled it to success. The single sold over 25 million copies worldwide, igniting a global "Lambada" craze.

Controversy and Legacy

The song "Lambada" was later found to be a cover of a Bolivian ballad, resulting in allegations of plagiarism against Kaoma. Despite the controversy, Loalva's rendition introduced Latin American music to new audiences worldwide. She continued to record with Kaoma, releasing three albums, and later three solo albums. Loalva sang in multiple languages and received numerous gold and platinum certifications for her work.

Later Career and Personal Life

Loalva remained active in music and also ventured into the hospitality business. She was a member of the French Academy of Arts, Sciences, and Literature and was awarded the Prix Thorlet in 2003. Loalva tragically lost her life on January 19, 2017, when she was murdered in a robbery attempt at her hotel.

The Lambada Dance

The "Lambada" dance, which became synonymous with the song, originated from a blend of traditional Brazilian dances. Its origins can be traced to the carnival celebrations in Salvador, Bahia. The dance is characterized by sensual movements, close embraces, and a distinct "side-to-side" shuffle step.