Feel the heartbeat of the Amazon, where drums and flutes dance under the sun. 99–128 BPM.
Carimbo is a traditional Brazilian music and dance genre originating from Pará state in the Amazon region around 1900. It features a lively syncopated rhythm played on drums, accompanied by guitar, flute, and call-and-response vocals. The dance involves sensual hip movements and is central to local festivals.
The defining artists of Carimbo — the names that shaped the sound. Tap to hear on Spotify.
The classic anthems and current essentials that define Carimbo.
Carimbo is characterized by a driving, syncopated rhythm played on large drums (curimbó) and other percussion like maracas and reco-reco. The guitar and flute add melodic layers, while vocals often feature call-and-response patterns. The tempo is moderate to fast (99-128 BPM), creating an infectious, danceable groove.
The rhythm has a distinctive swing, with accents on the offbeats. The dance involves a circling motion of the hips, and the music builds energy through repetitive patterns and improvisation. The overall feel is joyful, earthy, and celebratory.
Carimbo emerged in the late 19th century in the state of Pará, Brazil, as a fusion of Indigenous, African, and Portuguese musical traditions. The name comes from the African drum 'curimbó' used in the rhythm. It was originally performed at community gatherings and religious festivals.
In the 20th century, Carimbo evolved with the inclusion of new instruments like the guitar and saxophone, and gained popularity through radio and recordings. Artists like Pinduca modernized the sound in the 1970s, creating 'Carimbo moderno' which influenced other Amazonian genres.
Today, Carimbo remains a vibrant symbol of Amazonian culture, performed at the annual Carimbó festival in Pará. It represents the resilience and joy of the region's people, often addressing themes of love, nature, and daily life.
How Carimbo is built — drum pattern, swing, and the sounds you need.
To produce Carimbo, start with a solid drum pattern: the curimbó (bass drum) plays a steady pulse, while the tarol (snare) adds syncopated accents. Use maracas or ganzá for a shaker effect. The guitar typically plays simple chord progressions (often I-IV-V) with a rhythmic strumming pattern. The flute can carry melodies or improvisations.
Swing is crucial: the rhythm should feel slightly ahead of the beat. BPM around 110-120 works best. Sample authentic percussion sounds or use digital emulations. Layer call-and-response vocals, and consider adding modern elements like bass synth or electronic beats for a contemporary twist. Keep the mix warm and organic to preserve the folk character.
Press play here, or open the playlist in Spotify. Best for Dancing, Festivals, Celebrations.
The playlist is hosted on Spotify and plays through its official player. The guide — sound, history, artists and tracks — is put together by Dropo, and every artist and track links to Spotify so you can check it by ear. Spotted a mistake? Tell us. How Dropo is made →