Wando was a Brazilian singer, composer, and guitarist. He was born Wanderley Alves dos Reis on October 2, 1945, in Bom Jardin de Minas, Minas Gerais. He became involved with music in his 20s, playing guitar in various bands throughout local venues and events. He kicked off his career as a singer in 1969, performing samba-rock songs. He built a reputation for himself as a singer-songwriter, and his 1973 debut album Glória a Deus No Céu e Samba na Terra put his name on the musical map of Brazil. The album was notable for including lyrics that dealt with many social issues that plagued Brazilian society at the time. One of his songs, "O Importante É Ser Fevereiro," was recorded by fellow musician Jair Rodrigues, becoming a big hit in 1974. Wando’s self-titled sophomore album solidified his romantic approach to music, featuring hit songs such as "Nêga de Obaluaê" and "Moça." He continued releasing music throughout the 1970s and the 1980s, with each release expanding and diversifying his sound. His 1988 album O Mundo Romântico de Wando included the song "Fogo e Paixão," which would go on to become his biggest hit and his signature song. Other notable songs from this era include "Chora Coração" and "Meia de Seda." Over the next decade, Wando became an iconic and influential figure in Brazilian music, and he continued recording and performing up until his passing on February 8, 2012.
