Toca Rauuul!!!: A Carnival Block Celebrating Musical Diversity in Rio
The Toca Rauuul!!! block is one of the most emblematic of Rio's Carnival, known for its peculiarity of bringing together rockers and revelers around the music of the legendary Raul Seixas. Founded in 2012, this block is the result of the musical diversity that has been a hallmark of Rio's Carnival in recent years.
1. Complete History of the Block
Toca Rauuul!!! emerged in 2012, inspired by the presentation of Sargento Pimenta, a block that parades on Carnival Monday and plays exclusively the repertoire of the Beatles. However, the organizers realized that the English language made collective singing difficult, and thus the idea arose of a block that celebrated the songs of Raul Seixas[1].
2. Founders and Important Characters
Bruno Pederneiras is one of the main organizers of Toca Rauuul!!!. He was fundamental in the idea and maturation of the project, which became a reality in 2012[1]. Other important members include the members of the band that play throughout the carnival.
3. Musical Identity
The characteristic musical style of Toca Rauuul!!! is a fusion of rock and baião, reflecting the rich musical diversity of Raul Seixas. The repertoire includes not only the great hits like "Maluco Beleza" and "Quero Prazer," but also lesser-known songs by the singer[1]. In 2013, the block presented a repertoire of 35 songs, seven more than in the previous year[5].
4. Traditions and Rituals
One of the unique characteristics of Toca Rauuul!!! is the absence of a traditional parade. Instead, revelers gather in a fixed location, such as Praça Tiradentes, and sing and dance to the sound of the band for three hours. The revelers' costumes are inspired by the idol Raul Seixas, with official colors that reflect the block's aesthetic[1].
5. Territory and Belonging
The neighborhood of origin of Toca Rauuul!!! is the center of Rio, specifically the region of Praça Tiradentes, where the block meets every year. The rehearsal locations are often in the same neighborhoods where the members and revelers reside or are closer to the concentration location[1].
6. Evolution and Historical Milestones
Since its foundation, Toca Rauuul!!! has expanded beyond Rio's Carnival. The block performs in other states, especially in Minas Gerais, where it has already participated in two carnivals in Ouro Preto and once in the Carnival of Belo Horizonte[1]. In 2016, the block's motto was Acende a tocha (Light the torch), symbolizing the idea of keeping Raul Seixas's memory alive[1].
7. Cultural Impact
Toca Rauuul!!! has had a significant impact on the cultural scene of Rio. In addition to reinventing the way carnival takes place in a central square, the block has also contributed to the popularization of Raul Seixas's songs, making them known to a new generation of fans. The interaction with the local community is intense, with many local residents participating and supporting the event[1].
8. Current Structure
The current structure of Toca Rauuul!!! includes a band that plays throughout the three hours of concentration. The internal organization is based on a team of volunteers and members who work to ensure that everything runs smoothly. The instruments used are typical of a rock band, with