"General" João Seria
A true local hero of São Tomé and Príncipe, he embodies the soul and voice of his country's people through his music and culture.
Born and raised in the heart of São Tomé and Príncipe, he has dedicated his life to preserving and promoting the musical traditions of his homeland, especially the “Puxa”, a musical form of expression rich in history and meaning.
He was not only a musician, but also a cultural chronicler whose lyrics told of the daily lives, struggles and joys of his people, always deeply rooted in the country's African and colonial history. With a powerful voice and a vibrant presence, João Seria gave his people pride in their identity and celebrated the strength of São Tomé's culture in every note he played.
Even after his death (2023), his legacy remains a beacon of cultural resistance and love for his homeland. He will be remembered as a fighter for cultural preservation who showed that music can be a means of unity, education and resistance.
For many, João Seria remains an inspiration - a hero who knew how to translate the essence of São Tomé and Príncipe into unforgettable melodies.
(Image source: still from a video of the Africafestival Hertme 2018)
And that's how this music sounds like: https://youtu.be/c7HPYodVdoc?si=H-uilfOEjUdG-8Gk
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