The singer, guitarist and composer Érika Martins, known for her successful career in the Brazilian rock scene, is about to release her new single entitled “Céu de Planetário”. The song, composed in partnership with the renowned singer Fernanda Takai, marks the first feat of the two artists, promising a unique combination of talents. Érika, who has already lent her voice to characters from TV Globo soap operas, such as Aline Moraes and Cauã Reymond in “Um Lugar ao Sol”, brings her musical expertise to yet another innovative production.
With a career of more than two decades dedicated to rock, Érika Martins achieved recognition as the lead singer of the band Penélope, with hits such as “Holiday”, “Namorinho de Portão” and “A Mais Pedida” (with the participation of Raimundos), reaching the first hit charts throughout Brazil. His solo career is also marked by recognition, with six albums released, including the latest album “Modinhas”, which received critical acclaim and a tour of Europe.
Throughout her musical journey, Érika collected duets with renowned names such as Herbert Vianna, Erasmo Carlos, Wanderléa and Julieta Venegas, as well as collaborations with the bands Titãs and Raimundos. Her version of “Inbetween Days”, by the iconic band “The Cure”, was approved by Robert Smith himself, consolidating his talent and versatility. With the new formation of Autoramas, Érika represented Brazil in important international festivals and is preparing for a new solo album in 2023. Now, with “Céu de Planetário”, the artist promises to once again delight the public with her authentic and engaging music .
You achieved great success as the lead singer of the band Penélope, with hits like “Holiday” and “Namorinho de Portão”. How was this phase of your career and what were the most memorable moments?
When I look back, what I think is coolest is that my entire career has always been based on this. I always let the flow go, you know? I never tried to force anything to follow a certain fad. Ah, there’s this kind of sound going on, so I’ll follow. It’s always been very authentic, exactly what I wanted to do, it’s exactly my way of telling my stories the way I do and following my voice the way it is. So, I think it’s really cool when I hear people saying: “Oh, I heard it on the radio, I already knew it was you singing.” So, I think this is signature, it’s what I’ve always looked for in my career.
You’re creative there, in my way, and I think Penélope is that from the start. There’s always been that, it’s also a way of contesting, right? Against that environment there, which was also super sexist at the time, right? To rock, you have to masculinize. And I never believed that either. I’ve always thought that I can do as well as any man, without having to masculine myself, without having to dress up as a man. I think this is a sexist attitude. So from the beginning it was what I kind of looked for in my career, and so much so that I didn’t expect it to happen the way it did. We were joking, right? There were some shows there, but at the same time that it was a playful way of playing, it had a seriousness to it. It was a job taken seriously, like everything I do in my life too. Oh, if I’m going to do it, I’m going to try to do it the best way, right? So, like that, I always thought there in the pot. I thought about the stage, how the show was going to be and what your costume looks like. I also didn’t let it run free, in that sense, right? It was light, but it was thoughtful. It was all very thought out.
So, when it came to composing, I followed what I wanted to say, really, but at the same time I did it in a cool way, writing in a certain way. So, I think it came, it’s not a reflection of doing work in a light way, in a true way, but really thinking about the work, thinking about it, in a way that has to be thought about, with respect.
Over the years, you’ve participated in several duets and collaborations with renowned artists. What was the most memorable experience and how did these partnerships influence your musical career?
It’s really cool when artists look for me to do these partnerships, and I think that’s a very big feature of my career since the beginning. I appeared there for the general public with “A Mais Requested”, which was my first successful partnership, and there came a series of other participations. I did it with Herbert Vianna, there were so many during his entire career, Erasmo Carlos, I sang with him a few times, Rogério Flausino, he recorded with me on my first solo album, Vanderléia, Skank, Samuel Rosa. Now with Fernanda Takai.
So, do you think it’s a characteristic that permeates my career and that I’m very happy that people remember me when they go to record. They said, I don’t know, for example, Titans. That’s where I did Rock in Rio, Br-Ito, you know, by Titãs, too, when he called me to record. So, what I normally listen to, these people say: “At the time I wrote it, I thought about this song, at the time I remembered you, your voice, it was what was missing, it had everything to do too and to add. ”
So, I am very happy and very honored to be able to have this characteristic throughout my career. I think it influences my career so much, you know, because I bring a bit of those artists to me and I have to discover myself within the other’s music, right? Which, for me, is really fun to do too. Ah, how am I, you know, as an artist, I, Érica, interpreting someone else’s music, it is a song that escapes my universe, sometimes. So, like, it’s really cool, I have a lot of fun and it brings me a sensational freshness, an artistic process of always wanting to be doing more, of thinking all the time about different things. So, it adds a lot to me, and what I hear from these artists is that, wow, it made a difference, it was that little pinch there that we needed, different, right?
So, I think it goes both ways, it’s always a very interesting experience. Several left an impression on me, I’ve already mentioned several here, but, I don’t know, there was a special moment for me, which was when I did it with Erasmo Carlos at the VMP, you know, when we sang there live, came to see me at the MTV awards. I think that there was so emblematic too, because I thought there, you know, when that moment came, I said: “Wow, I don’t know, right? You got home, he says to your parents: ‘Oh, mom, look, I got there, right? I’m here then. Look, see? I’m talking to Erasmo Carlos, right? Who is everyone’s idol, right? Of so many generations too.” So this is all cool, right? It’s like that emotion happens.
Now, you are preparing to release your new single “Céu de Planetário”, in partnership with singer Fernanda Takai. How did this collaboration come about and what can we expect from this song?
How cool is this partnership with Fernanda Takai! It seems that fans have been asking for this collaboration since the late 90s, but things happen at the right time, right? It was great spending more time with Fernanda on the road and this desire to do something together arose. You wrote lyrics inspired by Chapada Diamantina, in Bahia, and you thought it was just like her. When he sent it to her, she said that she would see how long it would take, but in a week she had already replied that she loved it and that it was just like her.
You have a lot of chemistry, influences in common and the band Pato Fu was also a reference for you at the beginning of your career with Penélope. The process was beautiful, you cried and got emotional listening to her sing your song. With the clip too, I’m sure this partnership will yield many developments and special moments. It’s wonderful to see this collaboration happening and how much you’ve connected artistically. It’s always exciting to see two artists with so much affinity working together, creating something unique and meaningful. Congratulations on this incredible collaboration and many more to come!
You mentioned that Érika Martins is a versatile artist, who moves between rock and other musical genres. How would you describe her artistic identity and how is it reflected in her music?
It’s amazing how music can be so diverse and enriching! Rock is your school and your biggest influence, but throughout your life, you were also strongly influenced by the music that your older sister listened to at home, bringing elements from the Northeast to her trajectory. Being raised there and with your mother being from Bahia, it’s only natural that these regional references were part of who you are as an artist.
MPB also has a special place in his heart, with artists like Gal Costa, who marked his life. And now, living in Minas, you are reliving other significant influences, such as Clube da Esquina and Milton Nascimento, who have a strong connection with Minas Gerais music.
This mixture of influences and styles only enriches your music, and you value the authenticity and truth that each style can bring. The important thing is that the music is good and true, regardless of style, and you appreciate everything that is genuine and sincere.
This openness to different styles and appreciation of what is authentic are essential characteristics in a versatile and creative artist like you. This diversity enriches your work and allows you to create a unique connection with your audience, bringing your own essence and experiences to each song you sing and compose. Congratulations on being such an authentic artist and bringing so much diversity and richness to your music!
In addition to the new single release, you are also planning a new solo album for 2023. Can you give us a preview of what we can expect from this album?
It’s wonderful to see how you are bringing more women into your new music project. This quest to work with more women has been an important characteristic of your career since the beginning, and now you are focused on having more women around you during the recording and production of the new album.
Your entire band is made up of talented women, and you’re also prioritizing the production team with women. This is amazing as it values diversity and female voices in the music scene. In addition, you are now assuming the responsibility of producing the album, working together with Jairo, from Autoramas, and with his deeper involvement in this process, from the composition to the arrangements of the songs.
It is inspiring to see that you are dedicating yourself more and more to your artistic work, producing, composing and bringing new partnerships to enrich your music even more. These new songs in partnership with other women are on the way, and you are planning to release an EP or a new album soon, with several tracks that show all your authenticity and versatility.
This artistic journey you are following, with a focus on including more women in the whole process, is a reflection of your attitude and your search for true and inspiring music. Congratulations on all the incredible work you’ve been doing and for being an important voice in the appreciation of women in the music scene! We look forward to hearing all these new songs and seeing your continued success!
With such an extensive and rich career, what are the main challenges you face as an artist today? And how do you stay motivated and inspired over the years?
It’s understandable that the transition to the digital age and the dominance of the internet as a means of music consumption have been significant challenges for you, especially considering that the physical disc format has lost importance. The experience of having a physical album is something special, as it tells a story, as well as providing a tactile and visual experience that can be very meaningful for fans.
Furthermore, learning to navigate this new digital medium can be complex, especially for artists who had their careers established before the popularization of the internet. Dealing with digital distribution, social media, online marketing and other aspects can be a challenge, especially when younger generations were born immersed in this digital landscape.
It is also understandable that sometimes music can take a backseat to all the surroundings and the context that involves the dissemination and promotion of artistic work. It is important to remember that, despite technological changes, music is the essence of your work and is what touches people and creates meaningful connections.
Despite the challenges, it is encouraging to know that you continue to value and put music as a priority in your work. After all, it is she who transmits her voice, her stories and her emotions to the public. Your commitment to authentic and true music is what allows you to continue to make a positive impact in the lives of your fans and admirers.
Continuing to adapt to the digital landscape and finding ways to express your art through it can open up new opportunities and further expand the reach of your music. Through the internet, it is possible to reach global audiences and establish connections with people from different places and cultures.
With all of your authenticity and talent, I’m sure you’ll continue to successfully navigate this new landscape, always putting music first and sharing your artistry in meaningful ways with the world. I wish you much success in your career and look forward to seeing what lies ahead!
In 2015, you joined the new lineup of Autoramas. How has your experience with the band been and how do you balance your solo career with this partnership?
I completely understand your quest for a more harmonious and light coexistence in your solo career, especially after going through so many changes and experiences with different formations and musical environments. The transition from being part of a band like Autoramas, where you rubbed shoulders with many men and shared the group’s collective entity, to a solo career, where you can seek more balance and rub shoulders with talented women, is an important and worthwhile choice.
Finding that more balanced space and having a harmonious coexistence can be fundamental to your artistic growth and to express your music in a more authentic way. The search for an environment that allows you to feel comfortable and valued as an artist is essential to your creative journey.
The decision to take a break from Autoramas to prioritize his solo career and focus on his travels and projects is understandable. This will allow you to fully dedicate yourself to exploring your new partnerships, working with more talented women and creating your music in the way that you feel is most true and meaningful.
A solo career gives you the freedom to define your musical identity and tell your stories the way you want to. This is a space where you can explore your influences, personal experiences and creativity without restrictions, and create an even deeper connection with your audience.
I’m excited to see the new projects and collaborations to come in his solo career, and I’m sure his talent and authenticity will continue to delight and inspire his fans and admirers. Keep following your heart and your passion for music, because that’s what makes you a unique and special artist. I wish you much success in all your musical endeavors!
You had the opportunity to perform at renowned festivals such as Rock in Rio and Lollapalooza. How does it feel to go on stage at big events and what has been the most memorable show of your career so far?
It’s wonderful to see how you’ve had the opportunity to participate in so many important festivals throughout your career, contributing your music and art to an ever-growing audience. Each show and festival has its own memories and special moments that are engraved in its artistic trajectory. From the first exciting moments, such as Rock in Rio with Penélope in 2001, to the most recent concerts with Titas, his experience and maturity as an artist allowed him to enjoy each moment with more tranquility and pleasure.
It is natural that at the beginning of their career, the pressure and anxiety to perform at large festivals can make artists a little tense, but over time and with more experience, this feeling tends to be replaced by an artistic security that allows them to really enjoy every moment on stage and connect with the audience in a deeper way.
Experiencing so many festivals and interacting with different audiences and artists certainly enriched his career, and these experiences are invaluable for his growth as an artist. The ability to remember each moment and appreciate each show with gratitude and joy is a true treasure that reflects her passion for music and her craft.
The fact that you are now looking for a lighter and more harmonious environment in your solo career, working with more talented women and giving priority to your project, demonstrates a maturity and a deep understanding of your artistic needs. This quest for authenticity and balance in his musical journey will certainly continue to yield exciting results and special moments.
Music is a journey of continuous growth and learning, and you, as an artist, are allowing yourself to evolve, explore new partnerships, and truly share your music with the world. I’m sure your future projects and performances will be even more special and exciting, and I look forward to following along and celebrating your musical achievements! Keep shining and enchanting the public with your art!
How was the experience of representing Brazil twice at the “South By Southwest” Festival in the USA with Autoramas? How do you see the receptivity of Brazilian music on the international stage?
It’s wonderful to see how the Salto das Salvas Festival is such a special place for you, filled with diverse and engaging music spanning many styles, allowing for a rich experience for audiences and performers alike. The opportunity to discover and be inspired by music from different origins and genres is an inexhaustible source of growth and artistic learning.
Autoramas’ experience, as a band that breaks new ground and represents Brazil on the international scene, is truly admirable. Taking Brazilian music to the world and receiving the respect and admiration of the public and the press in different countries is a recognition of the authenticity and artistic creativity that the band brings with it. These experiences and recognition enrich the artistic career and open new horizons for Brazilian music on the global stage.
The life of an artist also has challenges, such as the rush of tours and the need to adapt to different situations. However, the way you face these situations with a positive attitude, flexibility and resilience shows your strength and determination as a human being and an artist. The quest to focus on the positive aspects, learn from experiences and value what really matters in your life is inspiring.
The pandemic may have further reinforced her values and her connection to nature, encouraging her to follow her truth and dedicate herself to what really matters in her artistic career. This journey of self-discovery and prioritizing core values is key to personal and artistic growth, and I’m sure this will also be reflected in her music, making it even more authentic and meaningful.
Keep following your path, cultivating these values and seeking a connection with nature and with your true essence. His commitment and dedication as an artist will certainly yield special moments, new creations and an increasingly inspiring career. May music continue to be a source of joy, learning and fulfillment in your life!
In addition to music, you are also interested in other artistic areas, such as acting. Is there any project in this direction on the horizon or any dream that you still want to fulfill?
It is very interesting to know that you had experience in the theater during your school days and participated in a theater group in Salvador. Theater is an art form that involves a lot of expression, interpretation and emotional connection, and certainly the learnings and skills acquired in this phase may have been fundamental to shape her artistic trajectory as a singer.
Acting in theater can enrich your performance on stage as a singer, as it allows you to develop the ability to convey emotions and tell stories in an authentic and engaging way. The interpretation of characters in the theater helps to understand different emotional nuances, to connect with the essence of the songs and to convey their artistic truth in an even more impactful way.
It is understandable that returning to the theater would require resuming and adapting, since her career as a solo singer and the other projects in which she is involved brought different developments and artistic approaches. However, it is an option that can be explored should the interest and desire to get involved with acting arise again.
The various facets of her artistic career, from solo singer to presenter and other projects, demonstrate her versatility and ability to adapt to different contexts. Each experience lived throughout her career contributes to enrich her art and offers new perspectives that can be explored in different ways.
Regardless of which path you choose to follow, the diversity of learning and skills you have accumulated throughout your career will certainly make your performances even more special and authentic. Whether as a singer, actress or in any other form of artistic expression, her trajectory is inspiring and represents a journey of growth and discoveries in music and the arts in general. Keep searching for your truth and sharing your passion for music with the world!
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