South by South West, most often referred to simply as “South by” or with the graphic logo SXSW, began as a music-only festival in 1987 in Austin, Texas. It has grown to become a superconference that presents music, films, interactive media and technology, and is now one of the most important cultural happenings in the US. Brazilian musician Liniker and her band os Caramelows– who are supported by Natura Musical – performed at last year’s festival and drew rave reviews. They are back again to raise the roof one more time.

Liniker is 22 year old transgender singer from São Paulo, with a remarkable presence. Her name is an homage to the soccer legend Gary Lineker, who was England’s hero in their World Cup run of 1986 Together with her band, the Caramelows, Liniker rose to prominence in October 2015 after the Youtube release of a 3-track EP, on which they’d spent less than US$ 100 to produce and shoot. The song that conquered audiences right away was the mellow and sensual track, “Zero”, which as of now has more than 15,300,000 views. The band followed up a year later with their first full album, “Remonta”, recorded through the help of online crowdfunding campaigns.

Born into a family of musicians, Liniker grew up listening almost exclusively to Black music, mostly Afro-Brazilian. But she also cites Mariah Carey, Whitney Houston and Beyoncé among her important inspirations. Her mother Ângela Barros, who raised all two siblings as a single mom, had her own band in the 90’s and now teaches Samba Rock – a Brazilian music and dance style.

As for their own sound, Liniker e os Caramelows combine American soul with the tropical heritage of Brazilian popular music (aka MPB) – and yet the result is something truly contemporary. Despite lyrics in Portuguese, the songs are clearly infectious, as the crowds at SXSW and the millions upon millions of YouTube viewers can attest. And if you do understand Portuguese, you realize the lyrics are highly personal and intimate, dealing with relationships and profound emotions.

Prior to their US tour last year, Liniker had never left her home country before. 2017 continued with their participation at the Primavera Sound in Barcelona, as well as shows in London, Berlin and Portugal. Natura Musical is proud to support their talent, charisma and their importance in today's cultural and social context as well. Natura has been proudly sponsoring Brazilian music since 2005 through the Natura Musical program, and Liniker e os Caramelows is yet another expression of our core philosophy: "it makes us feel good”. Before you go, check our playlist on Spotify ;)