R.I.P. Preta Gil, singer died on July 20th 2025

Preta Gil, daughter of Gilberto Gil from his third marriage, died on July 20th at the age of just 50 from complications of colon cancer. Initially, she worked as a producer and publicist, but decided to pursue a career as a musician at just under 30. Her debut album, "Prêt-à-Porter," was released in 2003, featuring the hit "Sinais Do Fogo." She made headlines at the time with the cover, which featured her nude and, as a full-figured woman, sparked a discussion about body confidence.

Gil became a star throughout Brazil with her subsequent albums and the show "Baile Da Preta," creating a style that drew on the popular music language of her father and Caetano Veloso, as well as rhythms such as forró, funk, and the party music axê. She had been active in Carnival since 2010 with her dance group "Bloco Da Preta," and in 2017, her homage to comedian and TV star Chacrinha attracted half a million viewers to the samba parade in Rio.

Her last album, "Todas A Cores," was released that same year, in which she duetted with Gal Costa and LGBTQ star Pabllo Vittar. In 2021, she recorded the song "Meu Xodó" with her son Francisco. Gil was not only a musician, however, but also a TV personality: As a host on the show "Vai E Vem," she chatted with her guests about sexuality and had roles in several soap operas. As co-owner of the entertainment agency Mynd, she was also a businesswoman.

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