Brazilian music icons Gilberto Gil and Caetano Veloso experienced a deeply moving evening during Sunday night’s carnival celebrations in Salvador, Bahia.
From the balcony of the Expresso 2222 suite, Gil and Veloso performed alongside Daniela Mercury, witnessed a drone tribute to the late Preta Gil, and enjoyed a performance by the renowned Cortejo Afro artists.
The 25th edition of the suite was themed “Pra Sempre Preta no 2222,” honoring Preta Gil, who was a key organizer of the space before her passing from cancer in 2025. The tribute underscores the significant impact Gil had on the carnival scene.
Visibly moved, the two legendary musicians sang classic songs with Mercury, who also paid tribute to Gil’s daughter and delivered a powerful speech criticizing Donald Trump and advocating for the LGBTQIAPN+ community.
The pair also enjoyed the performance of Cortejo Afro, which featured Regina Casé as part of its procession.
Adding to the emotional atmosphere, a drone display projected images and messages honoring Preta Gil, an initiative sponsored by Ifood.
