Bingo Bongo is a Brazilian funk band formed in São Paulo in 1974. The band’s lineup has changed over the years, but the current line-up is composed of Airto Moreira (guitar and vocals), Flora Purim (keyboards), Jorge Ben (bass), and Dudu Cearense (drums).
The band’s early releases were funk-influenced soul music with a strong Brazilian flavor. Their 1992 album, “Bingo Bongo”, helped to popularize the sound of bongo-led funk around the world.
The album featured guest appearances from Chico Buarque, Bran Van 3000, and DJ Premier, among others. The following year, the band released “Bingo Bongo ’93”.
Since then, Bingo Bongo has released a total of nine albums, including two live albums. They have also released several compilation albums and EPs.
In 2006, they were awarded a gold record for their album “Bingo Bongo ’95”. .
Bingo Bongo has toured extensively throughout their career, playing at major music festivals around the world, including Roskilde Festival in Denmark, Glastonbury Festival in England, and Rock al Parque in Spain. In 2007, they performed at the opening ceremonies of the World Cup in South Africa.
The band has also collaborated with several other artists over the years. They have performed with Herbie Hancock on his album “Glimpses” and with Lou Reed on his album “Transformer”.
They have also collaborated with Gilberto Gil on his album “Agora É Tarde”.
The current line-up of Bingo Bongo is currently working on their tenth studio album. In 2010, they were selected by the organizers of Brazil’s prestigious annual jazz festival Vila Brasil as one of the eight artists who will perform at its inaugural edition.
In conclusion, Bingo Bongo is a well-known funk band from Brazil that has been performing for over 40 years. They are known for their innovative bongo-led funk style and their collaborations with other artists throughout their career.
