Influenced by Afrobeat, funk, jazz, and Brazilian folk music, Abayomy Afrobeat Orchestra formed in Rio de Janeiro in 2009, when more than a dozen Brazilian musicians — including percussionist Garnizé and keyboardist Donatinho — came together to play a local festival honoring Afrobeat pioneer Fela Kuti. The band's independent debut album, Abayomy Afrobeat Orchestra, was released three years later, featuring live recordings that showcased the band's mix of horns, keyboards, polyrhythms, and multi-cultural arrangements. Abra Sua Cabeça followed in 2016, further cementing Abayomy Afrobeat Orchestra's reputation as leaders of Brazilian Afrobeat.
