Last Friday, the illustrious Walt Disney Concert Hall played host to a truly enchanting evening as it welcomed the remarkable presence of Marisa Monte, a virtuoso in the realms of music – a singer, composer, instrumentalist, and producer within the rich tapestry of Brazilian popular music and samba. The outcome? A packed house of adoring fans, all dancing and singing along with unbridled joy, basking in a performance that left an indelible imprint on their hearts.

Marisa made her return to the United States due to popular demand following her successful “Portas” world tour in 2022. This five-time Latin Grammy winner, with a staggering 10 million albums sold globally, treated the audience to not only the tracks from her latest release, “Portas,” but also an array of her timeless classics that have resonated for decades, hits like “Eu sei (na Mira),” “Beija eu,” “Amor I love you,” and others, which sent the audience into raptures of ecstasy.

Marisa shared the stage with some of Brazil’s most renowned musicians, including Dadi, whose mastery extended to bass, keyboard, and guitar. Dadi’s musical journey encompassed bands like “A Cor do Som” and “Novos Baianos,” and he served as the inspiration for Caetano Veloso’s beloved song “Leãozinho (Little Lion).” Additionally, Pretinho da Serrinha showcased his skills on the cavaquinho, while Antonio Neves on trombone and Lessa on sax provided a unique musical backdrop that beautifully complemented Marisa’s ethereal voice. Marisa herself exuded elegance, donning a stunning, multi-colored gown and crown that perfectly matched her status as a Brazilian diva.

To culminate the night’s festivities, the Queen of music, after basking in the audience’s thunderous standing ovation, graced us with a few more songs before inviting the audience to join her in singing the heartfelt “Bem que se quis (E po’ che fa’).” As Marisa gracefully exited the stage, the entire theater reverberated with the melody, the audience’s voices harmoniously echoing the tune until the very last note, a collective yearning for her swift return.

— Rosane Grimberg

For more information on events and concerts at the Disney Concert Hall, please visit www.laphil.com

For more on Marisa Monte, please visit https://www.marisamonte.com.br/