BamdaMel (also known as Banda Mel and Bamda Mel) was created in Brazil in 1984. The band preferred a style called samba-reggae, which came from their native Bahia.
In 1987, the band recorded their first studio album Força Interior. It was very successful in Brazil, where it sold over 800,000 copies. Such songs as “Farao” and “Ladeira do Pelô” conquered the local charts.
In 1988, the band recorded another album E Lá Vou Eu. The LP received gold and platinum certifications, mostly thanks to the success of the single “Protesto do Olodum”, which reached high spots on the local charts.
In 1989, BamdaMel released their third LP Mel do Brasil, which was just as popular as the band’s previous work.
In 1990, the group recorded Prefixo de Verão, which became the anthem of a bahian festival in 1991. Again, the LP received platinum and gold certifications.
The LP Negra, which came out in 1992, sold over 300,000 copies. The single “Baianidade Nagô” became a huge hit. It was conquering charts and radio stations. The song was translated into other languages. The band finally received international recognition. In Brazil, many event planners were dreaming to book BamdaMel, but it was rarely possible.
