Samba rock emerged in São Paulo in the mid-1960s. The rhythm was born from the mixture of traditional samba with influences from rock n’ roll, jazz and soul, creating a totally new beat, whose fast pace invites anyone to an energetic and relaxed dance.
Its origins lie on the outskirts of São Paulo, where young people who listened to foreign rhythms felt the need to create something new that better represented their culture and the local rhythms. Thus, despite its popularization in various states and social classes, samba rock is still today a cultural expression typical of the outskirts of São Paulo.
Below is a guide to four places to listen and dance to samba rock in São Paulo. But if you’re a beginner, don’t worry – there are options for classes to learn the dance too!
Where to listen to samba rock in São Paulo
Sambarocker’s Project
First of all, this project offers samba rock classes in the center of São Paulo. Classes take place on Tuesdays and Fridays, for all levels of knowledge. Beginners are also welcome! The project also holds samba rock dances and events throughout the capital. Keep an eye on the schedule on social media.
📍 Rua São Bento, 355 – Centro
Street Samba Rock
One of the most traditional samba rock dances in São Paulo is back! Samba Rock de Rua offers weekly gatherings in the city center, featuring DJs from the genre. Feel like dancing? Just come along to Bar do Dom on a Thursday at 18:30.
The group also meets sporadically on Sundays, taking over Avenida Paulista with lots of passinho, Black charme and, of course, good old samba rock.
📍 Rua Dom José de Barros, 163 – República
Samba Rock in Vein
Samba Rock na Veia is an artistic and cultural collective that seeks to promote this genre in São Paulo. It organizes dances, classes and even social actions related to samba rock. Want to keep an eye on upcoming events? Check out the collective’s agenda on the official website.
Vila do Samba
Finally, although traditional samba is the focus of this bar, it also has samba rock in its repertoire. In other words, it’s the perfect opportunity to enjoy the best of both worlds!
📍 Rua João Rudge, 340 – Casa Verde