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Zequinha de Abreu - Tico-Tico no Fubá

"Tico-Tico no Fubá" is a famous Brazilian choro composed by Zequinha de Abreu. Here are some interesting facts about both the composer and the composition:

  1. Composer's Background:

    • Full Name: José Gomes de Abreu, but he is better known as Zequinha de Abreu.
    • Birth and Death: He was born on September 19, 1880, in Santa Rita do Passa Quatro, São Paulo, Brazil, and passed away on January 22, 1935, in São Paulo.
    • Musical Talents: Zequinha de Abreu was a Brazilian musician and composer, known for his contributions to the choro genre, a popular Brazilian music style.
  2. "Tico-Tico no Fubá":

    • Year of Composition: The composition was completed in 1917 when Abreu was 37 years old.
    • Meaning of the Title: "Tico-Tico no Fubá" can be translated as "Sparrow in the Cornmeal." The onomatopoeic phrase "tico-tico" imitates the chirping sound of birds, and "fubá" is a type of cornmeal.
    • Popularization: The piece gained international popularity, becoming one of the most recognized Brazilian musical works. It has been recorded and performed by numerous artists in various styles over the years.
  3. International Recognition:

    • Carmen Miranda's Version: The song gained even more prominence when Brazilian singer and actress Carmen Miranda recorded a version in the 1940s. Her energetic and charismatic performances helped introduce Brazilian music, including "Tico-Tico no Fubá," to a global audience.
  4. Musical Characteristics:

    • Choro Genre: "Tico-Tico no Fubá" is a choro, a Brazilian music style characterized by syncopation and improvisation. Choro emerged in the late 19th century and is considered one of Brazil's earliest popular music forms.
    • Virtuosic Nature: The composition is known for its intricate and virtuosic melody, demanding technical skill from the performers.
  5. Legacy:

    • Cultural Icon: "Tico-Tico no Fubá" remains an enduring symbol of Brazilian music and culture. It has been covered and adapted in various styles, including jazz and classical music.
    • Cultural Impact: The composition has been featured in numerous films, television shows, and commercials, further solidifying its place in popular culture.

Zequinha de Abreu's "Tico-Tico no Fubá" stands as a timeless piece that continues to captivate audiences worldwide, showcasing the richness of Brazilian musical heritage.

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