First recording (with lyrics) of the song 'Tristezas do Jeca', a masterpiece of suffering sertanejo, turns 100
The first recording with lyrics of the sertanejo classic 'Tristezas do Jeca' reaches its centenary in 2026, originally recorded in 1926 by Patrício Teixeira.
In 1926, the renowned carioca singer and guitarist Patrício Teixeira recorded the classic sertanejo song 'Tristezas do Jeca' in a studio in Rio de Janeiro, marking its historical significance in Brazilian music. This recording, released as a 78 RPM single by Odeon, features the melancholic verses of the song composed by Angelino de Oliveira in 1918. It is notable that prior to Teixeira's vocal rendition, the song had already seen an instrumental recording by the Orquestra Brasil América in 1924, indicating its established popularity even before lyricists gave it voice.
As the genre of sertanejo music grew in popularity throughout Brazil, 'Tristezas do Jeca' has become an iconic representation of the 'sofrência' style, which emphasizes themes of sadness and heartache common in rural Brazilian narratives. The centennial celebration of this recording in 2026 is a reminder of the song’s enduring legacy and influence on Brazilian culture and music. This piece stands as a witness to the evolution of sertanejo over the past century, showcasing how traditional folk narratives have seeped into contemporary Brazilian consciousness.
The significance of 'Tristezas do Jeca' transcends mere nostalgia, as it captures the socio-cultural landscape of its time, reflecting the struggles and emotions of the rural population. The upcoming commemoration will likely inspire renewed interest in both the history of traditional Brazilian music and the artistic contributions of artists like Angelino de Oliveira and Patrício Teixeira, solidifying their place in the annals of music history.