Grand Master Ney: A Pioneer of Black Music in Brazil
Born on November 4, 1962, in São Paulo, Brazil, Grand Master Ney is a multifaceted figure in the music industry, serving as a producer, publicist, programmer, and educator. He is recognized as a precursor of DJ culture and black music, influencing various musical strands throughout his extensive 35-year career.
Drawing inspiration from legendary DJs such as Grand Master Flash, Jazzy Jeff, and Jam Master Jay of Run DMC, Ney has honed his craft under the guidance of figures like Ipocrates Bournellis (DJ Greek), Ricardo Guedes, and his uncles Osvaldo Pereira, Nelson, and José Carlos Braz (The Vitrola).
During his five-year tenure with the elite CHIC SHOW team from 1986 to 1991, Grand Master Ney contributed significantly to the music scene. He was also involved with other prominent groups in the 1980s, including Black & White, Zimbabwe, Tio Sam, and Kaskata’s. Following his departure from CHIC SHOW, he partnered with Nathaniel Valêncio to launch the SP DJ project at Santana Samba, which for six years became a beloved event for the Hip Hop community, showcasing artists like Racionais MC's, Thaíde & DJ Hum, Sampa Crew, Rappin Hood, and various groups from the Federal District, including Black and Gog Exchange. Additionally, Ney was a finalist in the DJ World Championship, specifically the DMC Mix Championship, for three consecutive years during this period.
Grand Master Ney's deep understanding of black music has led him to be a prominent figure at numerous iconic venues in São Paulo, including Cha Cha Cha, Dolores Dolores, Brancaleone, Santa Casa, and many others. For nine years, he was a key resident at Blen Blen, which became the largest black music venue in the city. His contributions to the industry have been recognized with several awards, including the title of Best DJ in Black Music at the 2008 DJ Sound Awards.
Currently, Grand Master Ney operates the ROLLER JAM skating rink in Mooca, where he entertains a diverse audience with the sounds of the 70s and 80s, catering to individuals aged 6 to 66.
In his discography, Ney has co-produced the album Roots of Black Music (with DJ Cuca) for the WUS label, featuring notable tracks such as "Violência Nunca Mais" by the acclaimed rapper Rappin Hood. In 1996, he collaborated with DJ Corello on the compilation R & B CONNECTION - Essential Charm Volume I, which celebrated the connection of black culture across Brazil. Due to its success, they produced R & B CONNECTION - Essential Charm Volume II. In 2001, he contributed to Rappin Hood's album (TRAMA) with the track "Caso de Polícia."
As a radio show host, Grand Master Ney has contributed to various programs, including the Musicalia Happy Dance Program on Manchete FM in 1988, Black In Love on Bandeirantes FM from 1989 to 1993, and several others up to 2006, including Adrenaline and Detonating on Transamérica FM.
His performance history spans numerous notable events and venues across Brazil, including Porto Seguro's Arraial da Ajuda, Club Sedna in Goiânia, and the Brazilian Music Festival in Brasília, among others.
In addition to his performance career, Grand Master Ney has served as an educator for eight years at Studio Fieldzz, teaching alongside prominent figures such as Iraí Campos and DJ Cadico. From 2005 to 2007, he managed his own DJ school, the Grand Master Ney DJ School, located in São Paulo.
As a promoter, Ney has provided valuable services to major record labels, including Warner Music, Paradoxx Music, Plot, April Music, Sony Music, and Music Regattation, working with notable artists such as Jorge Ben Jor, Paula Lima, Banda Black Rio, and Clube do Balanço.
His remix work includes tracks like "Us Guerreros" by Rappin Hood, "Canto" by Silveira, and contributions to works by Tim Maia and Paula Lima, showcasing his versatility and impact on the Brazilian music scene.