After its creation in 2019, the world will finally have the privilege of discovering “Sacada”, the long-awaited song written by singer and composer João Mar, in partnership with his colleague Rodrigo Xuxa. Since then, they both had the dream of sharing this music with the public, and for João, the song takes on meaning the moment it is presented.
After a long wait, “Sacada” will be released on digital platforms on November 10th, being one of the performer’s favorites. João believes that music is ideal for sunny mornings, trips with friends and days at the beach, as it represents memorable moments lived with those you love.
Despite being undergoing treatment to combat Hodgkin’s Lymphoma diagnosed in September this year and undergoing chemotherapy sessions, João Mar (36 years old) feels in his heart the need to continue working. Music has been a source of well-being for him. Sharing a little of this new routine on social media, the singer had to make some decisions, such as canceling his shows for an indefinite period. However, several new features have been confirmed, including the release of “Sacada”, which promises to bring joy and, at the same time, maintain the romanticism characteristic of the talented young man’s work.
In September, despite difficult times, João Mar had important professional achievements. Recognized nationally for the hit “Funk Bunitin”, which was a hit among celebrities, the artist released “Vou Fugir”, the first single from his next album scheduled for 2024. The song has gained wide reach on the networks, featuring a light timbre and strong references from reggae and Brazilian Popular Music.
Considering the rhythmic similarities between “Sacada” and “Vou Fugir”, the singer confirms that both are part of an artistic narrative that will be completely revealed with the release of the album. João Mar expresses: “In this project, I am rescuing my essence in music. My main references, such as Armandinho, Bob Marley and Natiruts, will be fully visible. I feel like I drew inspiration from life for this album and each release reveals a part of that journey. It’s like a love story unfolding, through songs full of positive thoughts.”
In addition to singing and composing, João Mar is involved in the production process of his songs. He opened a studio in Curitiba – PR, “Casita”, where he produced “Sacada” together with João Mendes, producer and friend of the artist.
João, you mentioned that “Sacada” is one of your favorites and perfect for special moments. What makes it so special to you?
All my songs are made to bring positive feelings to people, so that they listen to them and make every happy moment even more enjoyable. However, “Sacada”, in my opinion, has an even better vibe, because it is a very upbeat track. Plus, I started writing it in 2019, which makes it even more special. I believe that what sets this song apart is the fact that it is very “upbeat” and is the result of something that I had been waiting for for a long time.
Even though you were undergoing treatment for Hodgkin’s Lymphoma, you decided to continue releasing “Sacada”. How has music been an important part of your coping process?
Music is part of my healing process. It transforms me in many ways and I believe it brings improvements beyond what we believe. Continuing to make music has been synonymous with seeking recovery and feeding one of the most important parts of me, it gives me energy and motivation to move forward. And, of course, the receptivity of my fans and listeners shows me that I’m on the right path. That’s why I think it’s so important to continue sharing my work with those who support me.
With the decision to cancel shows indefinitely, how do you plan to stay in touch with your audience? Will there be any news or special projects?
Even though I have paused performing to take care of myself, which I believe is the biggest focus of the process, I don’t intend to stop releasing my sounds and nurturing relationships with those who listen to them through my social networks. I believe they are the best way to get closer to my audience. Through my songs, I express who I am and my views on the world and, in this way, they get to know me through that perspective. So, I think that besides the stage, music also brings them closer to me.
“Vou Fugir” and “Sacada” have rhythmic similarities and are part of the same project. Can you tell us more about the artistic narrative you are building with these songs and the next album?
Both songs are part of a big project, which will be released next year. They have common factors, as the last tracks have basically the same references, especially raggae, which is a musical style that I really like. Therefore, they are similar in that they have the same inspirations. However, this complete story will only be revealed with the complete album. I can say that people will get to know me like they never did before because each part of the album tells a little piece of my journey.
This album, according to you, rescues your musical essence. What are your main influences that listeners can expect to find in this rescue?
My main references are the sounds I heard while growing up. They come before me, they are influenced by my parents’ tastes too. Without a doubt, today, the artists that make the most sense with what I want to convey with my songs are Bob Marley, Armandinho, the band Natiruts and Titãs. Furthermore, I really enjoy classic MPB, it’s no wonder that I like doing versions of these hits too. I admire Caetano Veloso and Marisa Monte, an artist of whom my mother was a big fan, and without a doubt, both also influenced the development of my next project, among countless other names in Brazilian music.
In addition to singing and composing, you actively participate in production, including having your own studio in Curitiba. How does this direct involvement affect the outcome of your songs?
I believe that participating in the process as a whole, involving composition and production, brings new meanings to the result. You feel more connected to the work, so when it’s done, it’s an added emotion. In the case of “Sacada”, for example, producer João Mendes, who is also my friend, and I were thrilled with each finished part. Seeing the public’s reception of something you fully participated in is one of the best feelings there is.
Given the “high spirits” that “Sacada” brings, what do you expect from the public’s reaction? Any special expectations?
This song was composed 4 years ago, so I thought of several possibilities of how the public could interact with it and I really believe that the use of this sound by listeners can result in several surprises. To be honest, it would be really cool to see people creating dances and trends on social media. I’m sure that this interactivity would really fit with the purpose of the song.
Considering the phase of transformation you are experiencing, how has this personal journey influenced the positive messages present in your new songs?
I have received a lot of support. I realized that the public’s affection, even though it was created according to the release of my works, is not limited to my sounds. They created a connection with me as an artist and even, as a person. It has been incredible to see everyone’s affection and motivation in following my healing process. Whenever I share something related to my personal journey, it is certain that listeners will make the support they have to offer me even more evident and that is priceless.
You mentioned that “Sacada” is ideal for sunny mornings, trips and memorable moments. Is there a specific time when you would like people to hear this song?
I think of Sacada a lot as a song that immortalizes encounters. Like reunions of friends who haven’t seen each other for a long time and decide to meet again on a sunny Sunday. And, of course, it’s impossible not to mention a walk on the beach. I bet that walking along the coast listening to “Sacada” must have an incredible effect.
In addition to the release of “Sacada”, what are your plans for the next few months in terms of music and personal projects? Any surprises prepared for fans?
My idea for this project that has been taking shape is to be faithful to my essence and bring a layer of who “João Mar” is with each release. I believe that each work will reveal something that was still unknown, at least by the public. Listeners have already seen two of them and were very excited about the result. I can say that these were not the last of the year. Another release is coming and I’m sure it will be as special as the others. Reinventing yourself is one of my skills (laughs).
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