Brazilian music has lost 73-year-old author and songwriter Aldir Blanc to Covid-19.
He had been in intensive care since April 15, when he tested positive for the coronavirus. His career spanned more than 50 years, including a body of work of over 500 song lyrics — including some of Brazil’s most popular hits, such as 1979’s “O Bêbado e o Equilibrista.” Immortalized by the voice of the late singer Elis Regina, the song was considered an anthem by opponents of the 1964-1985 military dictatorship.
Mr. Blanc lived in Rio de Janeiro, a state that has confirmed 11,139 infections and 1,019 deaths.
Newspaper Folha de S. Paulo compiled a selection of Aldir Blanc’s songs on Spotify, which we have published below.