Biography
Fame reached João Roberto Kelly for his Carnival march compositions, among them the perennial favorite "Cabeleira do Zezé" written with Roberto Faissal and captured by Jorge Goulart, plus "Mulata Iê-Iê-Iê" as sung by Emilinha Borba, "Colombina Iê-Iê-Iê," and "Rancho da Praça Onze" created jointly with Chico Anísio for Dalva de Oliveira. Success followed in samba as well with pieces such as "Boato" delivered by Elza Soares, "Mais do que Amor" interpreted by Jamelão, and "Dor de Cotovelo" voiced by Elis Regina. Further originals that received recordings comprise "Gamação," "Brotinho Bossa Nova," "Samba do Teleco-teco," "Só Vou de Balanço," and "Ciuminho."
He first took up the piano by ear at age 11 under instruction from his mother and grandmother. Professional work began in 1957 when he supplied the musical score for the stage work Sputnik no Morro. Soundtrack composition led him to television in 1963, where he contributed to prominent comedy programs. Multiple albums also appeared with Kelly performing his own material.
He first took up the piano by ear at age 11 under instruction from his mother and grandmother. Professional work began in 1957 when he supplied the musical score for the stage work Sputnik no Morro. Soundtrack composition led him to television in 1963, where he contributed to prominent comedy programs. Multiple albums also appeared with Kelly performing his own material.
Albums
Singles
