BAIA TOCA RAUL USA TOUR CELEBRATES RAUL SEIXAS' 80TH BIRTHDAY
Brazil's leading interpreter of Raul's music brings an iconic cultural tribute to U.S. audiences
Brazil's leading interpreter of Raul's music brings an iconic cultural tribute to U.S. audiences
In 2025, Brazil celebrates what would have been the 80th birthday of Raul Seixas, considered the father of Brazilian rock and roll. Across the country, major concerts and tributes are honoring his legacy, alongside the release of the highly anticipated Globoplay TV series "Raul, Eu Sou". Now, for the first time, U.S. audiences can be part of this historic moment.
Maurício Baia, recognized by Raul Seixas' own family as the leading interpreter of Raul's music in Brazil today, is bringing his acclaimed "Baia Toca Raul" show to cities across the United States. Between performances in Brazil during this milestone year, Baia will deliver the same energy, storytelling, and musical depth that have made him a fixture in Brazil's tribute scene.
This special U.S. tour offers more than a concert-it's an immersive journey through Raul's career, whereby Baia guides audiences through the different years of Raul's music, giving context to the songs and revealing the evolution of one of Brazil's most visionary artists. The repertoire includes timeless hits-"Metamorfose Ambulante", "Ouro de Tolo", and "Gita"-alongside hidden gems like "S.O.S.", Baia's own celebrated compositions, and songs by artists inspired by Raul's legacy, including Barão Vermelho,Cassia Eller, Legião Urbana and Titãs.
Baia's career spans more than 30 years, with 13 original albums released and performances at some of the world's most prestigious festivals, including Rock in Rio (opening for Coldplay), Lollapalooza (sharing the stage with Pearl Jam), and the Montreux Jazz Festival. This tour is a rare opportunity for all music lovers to connect with one of Brazil's most influential artists.
"Raul Seixas' work was liberating for me. He spoke the same language, the same accent, and inhabited the same vocal range as mine. At 18, I could sing all his songs, devouring them on the guitar. I don't think Raul had any idea how celebrated he would be in his eternal life. It's always a great thrill to be part of this legacy-especially in this 80th birthday year," says Baia.
The Baia Toca Raul USA Tour is both a tribute and a cultural celebration-an invitation to join Brazil in honoring the music, story, and enduring legacy of one of its greatest icons
Kika Seixas, Raul's ex-wife mentions that she considers Baia to be probably the best interpreter of Raul Seixas. They talk about the beginning of "O Baú do Raul which is a tribute project dedicated to celebrating the Raul Seixa's legacy . Initiated in 1992 , the project has featured various artists performing Raul's songs, aiming to keep his music and message alive.
Baia is a guest on TV Globo's show "É de Casa" along with Vivi Seixas, Raul's daughter, and Rick Ferreira, Raul's guitarist. They talk about the show "Baú do Raul 30 anos" in 2019 at Circo Voador - Rio de Janeiro- Brazil.
Baia plays "OURO DE TOLO" introduced by Toni Garrido at one of the "Baú do Raul" tributes to Raul Seixas in 2004, showcasing Baia's talent alongside many Brazilian icons, including Caetano Veloso, Gabriel o Pensador, Raimundos, Zelia Duncan and more at Rio de Janeiro- Brazil.
BAIA TOCA RAUL - NEW YEAR'S EVE at Copacabana/Rio de Janeiro - Brazil - 2015. This traditional celebration in Copacabana also featured, Titãs, Detonautas, Seu Jorge, along with the Unidos da Tijuca samba school's bateria. This celebration brought together an estimated 2 million people.
Baia sings Gita for Universal’s Special celebrating the 80th anniversary of Raul Seixas in July 2025.
Baia sings with other singers "Sociedade Alternativa" for Universal’s Special celebrating the 80th anniversary of Raul Seixas in July 2025.
ABOUT RAUL SEIXAS
Raul Seixas (1945–1989), often called the "Father of Brazilian Rock," was a transformative figure in Brazilian music, known for his ability to merge international rock 'n' roll with distinctly Brazilian elements. Born in Salvador, Bahia, he was captivated by the sounds of Elvis Presley and Little Richard, which inspired him to form his first band in the 1960s. His early passion for music, combined with a rebellious and philosophical nature, set the stage for his groundbreaking career.
Seixas' music was defined by its blend of rock rhythms with traditional Brazilian genres like baião, as well as its thought-provoking lyrics. He tackled themes of freedom, mysticism, societal critique, and existential philosophy, often drawing inspiration from figures like Aleister Crowley and the Bhagavad Gita. His most iconic songs, including "Maluco Beleza," "Gita," "Sociedade Alternativa," and "Metamorfose Ambulante," are celebrated for their wit, depth, and cultural resonance.
Raul Seixas himself lived in the U.S. for a time. During his stay, he visited places like Florida, where he toured Disney parks, as well as New Orleans and Memphis, Tennessee, where he visited Graceland, the legendary home of Elvis Presley—Raul’s greatest idol.
Throughout his career, Raul collaborated with notable figures, including Paulo Coelho, with whom he co-wrote many songs that reflected their shared countercultural and libertarian ideals. His philosophy of Sociedade Alternativa (Alternative Society) became a hallmark of his work, advocating for personal freedom and individualism.
He died in 1989 at the age of 44. However, his influence on Brazilian music and culture has only grown since his passing. His songs continue to inspire new generations, and his legacy is celebrated annually by devoted fans who see him as a symbol of freedom, creativity, and resistance.
Raul Seixas remains one of the most enduring and beloved figures in Brazilian cultural history, a true icon whose work transcends time and musical boundaries.
Raul Seixas performing "Sociedade Alternativa" in Santos, São Paulo, Brazil, in 1982. This performance is remembered as one of his most iconic, showcasing his unique ability to connect with large crowds.
Pedro Bial interviews Raul Seixas, discussing his influences from American rock 'n' roll and Luiz Gonzaga. Raul also shares insights into the origins and importance of O Baú do Raul in preserving his legacy.
Contact: Laurita Karam @ +1 (646) 266-4591 (WhatsApp/SMS)