Olodum has long been considered the heart and soul of Bahian music, culture, dance, and art. The world-famous band started out as an afro-bloco, first appearing at Carnival in 1979. Today, Banda Olodum has toured the globe and boasts a dozen recordings.
History of Olodum
Olodum, along with the afro bloco Ilê Aiyê, contributed heavily to the emerging style of samba reggae in Salvador. This new form of samba was intended to stand apart from the rapid samba schools of Rio de Janeiro featured during Carnival. The term samba reggae was first used in 1986 to describe the sound of Olodum.
Drawing inspiration, both musically and idealogically, from Bob Marley, Olodum helped establish this new sound. Samba reggae is a combination of Brazilian samba with Jamaican reggae, merengue, and salsa. In comparison with samba of Rio, samba reggae is more laid back, with the reggae upbeat feel, and more of an emphasis on the role of the surdos (bass drums).
In addition to introducing a new type of music to the world, Olodum features dance, art, and theater acts that call attention to their African heritage. In the late 1970's, many Bahians felt their culture was being lost, particularly in Rio, where the music continued to blend with European styles.
International Fame on The Obvious Child
Olodum recieved international attention and acclaim for their performance on "The Obvious Child", the first track and single from Paul Simon's 1990 Album The Rhythm of the Saints. The group also appeared in the music video, and performed live with Paul Simon at a concert in Madison Square Garden.
Olodum is also featured in the controversial track "They Don't Care About Us" from Michael Jackson's fourth album, HIStory. The first music video was recorded in Salvador and Rio, bringing both positive and negative attention to Brazil.
The video, directed by Spike Lee, takes place largely in the Pelourinho and favelas of Salvador. Despite the fact that radio stations were reluctant to give the song air time, it hit number 30 on the Billboard Top 100.
The Future of Olodum
Olodum offers a school for underpriviledged children in Salvador, featuring classes on music, art, and more. The large drum ensemble starts training future Olodum musicians at a young age, and participate in frequent public performances.
Banda Olodum, the smaller, more select musical ensemble, continues to record and perform in Salvador and around the world. They remain a leading voice in the struggle for improving the socioeconomic issues in Brazil, as well as promoting pride in the country's African heritage.
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