Renato Russo, a singer, songwriter, bassist, and leader of Legião Urbana, passed away on October 11, 1996, in Rio de Janeiro, due to AIDS-related complications. Born on March 27, 1960, in Rio, he moved to Brasília at the age of nine. His musical career included stints with the band Aborto Elétrico and the iconic Legião Urbana, where he recorded nine albums. Renato also released three solo works.

The death of Renato Russo

Leading Legião Urbana, he became an influential figure in Brazilian rock, creating classics such as “Será,” “Geração Coca-Cola,” “Que País é Este?,” “Tempo Perdido,” and “Faroeste Caboclo.” Some fans had an almost religious devotion to the band, calling it “Religião Urbana,” but Renato always rejected that status.


Matheus Araújo - Brazilian History
Matheus Araújo
Founder and Editor at Brazilian History | Website

Matheus is an entrepreneur at Araujo Media, where he serves as CEO and Creative Director. He shares analyses on his personal blog "matheusaraujo.me" and is currently pursuing a degree in Advertising and Propaganda. Moreover, he has a passion for history, particularly that of Brazil, which led him to become the founder and editor of the Brazilian History portal.