Seu Jorge brought rhythm, nostalgia, and a sold-out concert to Rockhal, in a celebration of Brazilian music.
Luxembourg’s Lusophone community is here to stay, and so is the country’s willingness to welcome Brazilian musicians. On 29 March, that willingness was on full display at Rockhal, where the legendary Seu Jorge performed to a sold-out and ecstatic crowd.
A true musician of the people, Seu Jorge is known for his ability to walk the line between humor, ridiculousness, and social commentary. Whether he’s singing about everyday struggles, addressing political issues, or about how he wishes he would get noticed by a beautiful woman, he does it with style and skill.
As soon as tickets went on sale, I acted fast. Seu Jorge isn’t just a Brazilian icon, he's known and loved by Portuguese and Cape Verdean people too, so I knew in Luxembourg the concert would sell out – which it did.
It was a busy night for the Rockhal. As Seu Jorge lit up the Club stage, Ivorian-French rapper Kaaris was also presenting on the Main stage. Although the entry process could’ve been a bit smoother, Rockhal did a great job at handling the two concerts.
The moment Seu Jorge got on stage, it was clear this man has presence. I call it swag, but I think this is what Gen Z refers to as “rizz”. Let’s meet halfway and say that Seu Jorge was oozing charm. That was clear from the sunglasses he was wearing on stage, down to the smoothness of his gait. The man barely had to dance to make the crowd swoon. (Did I develop a crush? It’s very possible.)
His voice always sounds deep, warm, and full-bodied on his albums, and somehow, it was all that and more live. It came from deep within his soul. It’s the kind of voice that, if he wasn’t already a singer, everyone would feel the need to tell him to be on the radio or start a podcast.
He was backed by an incredible ensemble of musicians: percussionists, a pianist, drummer, brass players, guitarist, and a 17-year-old cavaquinho player (a small Brazilian string instrument similar to a ukulele). Seu Jorge proudly introduced him as a “danger” for being so talented at such a young age.
The setlist was a perfect blend of classic hits and new tracks. The audience sang along excitedly to songs like Amiga da Minha Mulher, Tive Razão, Felicidade, and of course, Carolina – a song I am proud to share a name with. He also brought out Quem Não Quer Sou Eu, a song made extra famous through its funk version that became viral on TikTok. He also sang songs from his new album, Baile à la Baiana, and even incorporated group movements to keep the energy up even if people didn’t know the lyrics.
Of course, it’s important to mention the “recreational moment” in the concert, filled with pure instrumentals. It was an opportunity for each musician to highlight their skills. Seu Jorge, a true renaissance man known for his music and acting abilities, then surprised us all by wailing on the flute.
After the concert ended, chants of "mais um, mais um!" echoed through the room. Luckily the encore came quickly, and the crowd didn’t have to wait for more favourite hits. Notably, the band played São Gonça, a love song that talks about the struggles of living in the urban setting of the state of Rio de Janeiro – a song so catchy, I struggle to get the lyrics out of my head as I write this review.
They also included the Tom Jobim classic, Chega de Saudade, which Seu Jorge dedicated to Brazil itself, as the stage lit up with colours of the Brazilian flag – a powerful statement for a room full of people living far from their homeland.
And finally, there’s no better way to finish a show in Luxembourg than with the song, Burguesinha.
With a theatrical, funky bow, Seu Jorge announced each member of the band as they were showered in roaring applause. Seu Jorge sent off the crowd, wishing us a life filled with “freeness, lightness, and lots of poetry.”
It was a beautiful night that left each member of the audience (Brazilian or not) with the feeling of saudade – the bittersweet longing and celebration of cherished memories – for wherever they’re from, for joyful moments, and definitely for that concert.
