Samba Great Clementino Dies
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The Brazilian samba singer Jose Bispo Clementino dos Santos, better known in his native country as Jamelao, died Saturday at the age of 95, according to a report by the BBC.
Clementino’s career lasted more than five decades, during which he sang in dozens of carnivals and recorded more than 20 records. With his smooth, melodic voice, Clementino was a pillar of Mangueira, one of the most traditional and acclaimed samba schools to perform in Rio de Janeiro during the citywide February festival.
The musician died in a Rio hospital, three days after being admitted. The cause of death has not yet been disclosed.
Asked on his 90th birthday what he loved most about his profession, Clementino responded, “The music. The music. I love the music. And the women I can get, too.”
