What's Happening?
Brazilian artist Rodrigo Amarante, known for his work with Los Hermanos and the theme song 'Tuyo' for the Netflix series 'Narcos,' is currently writing a new record slated for release in 2027. Amarante is recording part of this upcoming album in Chapel
Hill, North Carolina, at Betty's. He recently performed at the Good Moon Festival in Durham, organized by Sylvan Esso and their record label, Psychic Hotline. During an interview with WUNC News, Amarante reflected on his career, including his decision to decline Netflix's request for a new 'Narcos' theme song each season, believing the original 'Tuyo' effectively captured the show's essence through its 'cognitive dissonance' between violence and apparent tenderness. He also shared insights into his creative process, emphasizing discovery and unpredictability in his songwriting.
Why It's Important?
Amarante's continued presence and recording activities in the U.S. highlight the country's role as a hub for international musical talent and collaboration. His engagement with local music scenes, such as recording in Chapel Hill and performing at the Good Moon Festival in Durham, contributes to the cultural vibrancy of these areas and fosters artistic exchange. His reflections on the 'Narcos' theme song underscore the artistic integrity and creative control that artists often seek, even in commercially successful projects. Furthermore, Amarante's discussion of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu's influence on his personal development, teaching him tenderness, discipline, and deference, offers a unique perspective on how diverse experiences can shape an artist's worldview and approach to life, potentially resonating with audiences interested in personal growth and the broader impact of martial arts.
What's Next?
Rodrigo Amarante plans to record his new album at the end of the current year, with its release anticipated in 2027. He is making a conscious effort to focus on the songs and lyrics, memorizing them with guitar or piano before moving into the production phase, a departure from his previous, more 'baroque' record. Amarante also expressed hope for future collaborations with Psychic Hotline, the record label that organized the Good Moon Festival where he recently performed. His ongoing recording sessions in the Triangle area of North Carolina suggest that more details about his new music and potential local partnerships may emerge as he progresses with the album's development.
Beyond the Headlines
Amarante's narrative extends beyond his musical career to touch upon profound philosophical and personal development themes. His experience with Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, particularly under the tutelage of Jean Jacques Machado, reveals a formative period that instilled values of tenderness, discipline, and respect. He describes Jiu-Jitsu as the 'weapon of the weak,' emphasizing technique and using an opponent's energy rather than brute strength, which provided him with a sense of calm and respect for elders. This perspective offers a deeper understanding of the artist, suggesting that his creative output is not merely a product of musical talent but also a reflection of a disciplined and introspective approach to life, shaped by early experiences that taught him to navigate challenges with grace and strategic thinking.
