Edvaldo Santana, a Bluesman with a S?o Paulo Swagger

"(Rodrigo Contrera)

A few weeks ago, I spoke about the classic playwright Plínio Marcos, whom I briefly met and who stands as a major reference in the excellent contemporary Brazilian dramaturgy.

Today, I want to introduce musician Edvaldo Santana, an undeniable musical reference in S?o Paulo, Brazil, and the blues scene of this vast country.

Edvaldo hails from S?o Miguel Paulista, a district in the eastern part of S?o Paulo. A very seasoned musician, his take on the blues is unique. He might not be widely known to the general public, but those who follow him recognize the quality of his work. He embodies the blend that every genuine Brazilian possesses. He doesn't receive widespread media attention because he doesn't fit the mold of someone seeking to please the masses. He's a road musician.

I came across Edvaldo towards the end of the 80s. I attended one of his shows, which unfortunately wasn't successful. However, he gradually managed his disappointments better. The last time I saw him in person, he shared my table at a bar where I had asked a beautiful actress, Gabi Spacciari, to perform a brief role with me. He watched, both fascinated and shocked. He has an incredible sense of humor.

A brief biography can be found here: https://pt.wikipedia.org/wiki/Edvaldo_Santana.

Notice he doesn't have many albums, but each is striking because they capture the essence of S?o Paulo's daily life. I own his first two solo albums. One notable aspect of his compositions, in my opinion, is his ability to convey the edge-of-your-seat situations that only those who live here understand, like in "Muito prazer." The feeling of being lost on Paulista Avenue, unsure of how to approach someone who might be the love of your life - or might not.

Another characteristic trait of Edvaldo's is his good humor, which slightly diverges from the typical bluesman's image often associated with a sad smile. Edvaldo's smile is not sad; it's more the wily and lived-in grin of someone devoid of many illusions. In essence, the cunning of someone aware of their mortality but feeling eternal at every moment.

For instance, Edvaldo sings about those girls who aspire to be someone but lack a support system, a very common profile in the outskirts, in the song "Gata Borralheira." He addresses other subjects that street-savvy people are well familiar with, often poking fun at certain pretensions. Whenever I sing this song, the locals go silent, especially the women.

Some regard Edvaldo as the best active Brazilian musician. It might seem like an exaggeration, but rest assured, it's neither a naive nor a lone opinion.

(Rodrigo Contrera)"