Jazz Està Morto: João Donato

João Donato 
João Donato might be best known in record-head circles for his brilliant jazz-funk album Quem é Quem, but he’s an absolute living legend and an icon of Brazilian music. He’s also recorded and released albums on American labels and has had his songs performed and/or played with folks like Ron Carter, Ray Barretto, Astrid Gilberto, Airto Moreira, Cal Tjader, Tito Puente, Eddie Palmieri, Mongo Santamaria, Stanley Clark, Herbie Mann, Jack McDuff, the Village Callers and others.

One thing is certain, that after all of these years João is still that fun, loving, free spirited artist since his early breakout days. This was totally felt throughout his performance with us at the second installment of #JazzEstàMorto. And, he is still a perfectionist. Which makes him even more of an icon, thus how he got so far in music and created some of the most legendary hits ever to be made.

Donato is such a genuine soul and multi faceted character. He had the entire lodge room swaying to his tunes, singing along, and let’s not forget to mention, continuously reminding us about the records in the back for sale, in which everybody made sure to cop one before they left because they just couldn’t get enough of his music. It was extra special when we had the surprise guest, the legend, Sergio Mendes, introduce João alongside Adrian and Ali. Thereafter, it was only right that João performed his ‘70s classic hit “Emorio” which Sergio had remade in the later years.

This has been such a refreshing experience thus far and we are ecstatic to be at the forefront of honoring great people and amazing music. Two maestros down, and two more to go with back to back sold out shows. This month is just getting warmed up and we are already amazed by all of the love we have been receiving. See you next week #LA!