Marisa Monte And Gilberto Gil Sing For Peace

a once in a lifetime musical moment for Gil’s Farewell tour.

Marisa Monte and Gilberto Gil sing for peace by turning to one of Brazil’s most beautiful songs, just when the world needs it most.

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by Scott Adams

One of the most poignant moments for Brazilian music in 2025 came in the emotional duet shared by performers and concert-goers alike in Rio de Janeiro last March.

The setting was poised for more than one such musical memory on March 29th at Barra da Tijuca’s Farmasi Arena.

The occasion was the opening night for Gilberto’s Gil’s farewell tour, Tempo Rei, and the moment came 23 songs into the setlist. Applause filled the stadium as Gil finished ‘Se Eu Quiser Falar Com Deus’.

Then, the audience gasped when Marisa Monte appeared on-stage as a surprise walk-on for ‘A Paz’ (Peace). Backed by orchestra and chorus, Gil began to play the guitar introduction as the audience sang along with her.

Gilberto Gil’s shows at Farmasi Arena continued for two more nights, but Monte’s exciting appearance was not to be repeated. Truly a once in a lifetime experience.

When asked about the secret invite, Gil explained. “(Tonight) Marisa Monte’s light and grandiose singing brought peace to more hearts. It’s always a pleasure to share the stage with Marisa.”

For her part, Marisa Monte’s comment reflected her admiration for the opportunity to honor two Brazilian msuic’s greatest icons. “I felt blessed to receive the invitation to sing ‘A Paz’, this magical partnership that unites two of our giants, João Donato and Gilberto Gil. Singing live with Gil’s voice and guitar, a fundamental creator in the history of Brazilian music, is always an inspiring and transcendental experience.”

We Reveal The Story Behind ‘A Paz’

The song, ‘A Paz’ (Peace) is as inspiring as it is beautifully serene and the SRO crowd was spellbound by its lyrics and the song’s graceful and flowing melody.

Gil reunited with Joao Donato to co-write ‘A Paz’ in 1986. And it’s said that Gil composed the lyrics while Donato was napping. Zizi Possi was first to record ‘A Paz’ the following year when she included it on her album Amor & Música.

Possi’s version is a fan favorite staple on our live streaming station at Connect Brazil. Her’s is a version yet to equalled until, perhaps, now. Connect Brazil listeners can enjoy both versions this summer.

Gil’s Tempo Rei tour moved on to Sao Paulo, then to Basilia to begin its sweep across Brazil. Plans of concert date in Europe are pending. But sadly, US venues will not be included, according to the tour manager of the family group Gilsons.

‘A Paz’ is now available as a digital download on all platforms. If you purchase from this Amazon Music link, you’ll be supporting Connect Brazil’s streaming station.

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Marisa Monte And Gilberto Gil Sing For Peace

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Original Lyrics for ‘A Paz’

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