Brazilian Rhyme (aka Ponta de Areia)

Recorded in 1977 during sessions for Earth, Wind & Fire's album All 'N All, Brazilian Rhyme (Ponta de Areia) is a 53-second interpretation of a composition by Brazilian musicians Milton Nascimento and Fernando Brant. Produced by Maurice White and engineered by George Massenburg, it was recorded during the band's Los Angeles sessions at Hollywood Sound Recorders and The Burbank Studios. The track reflected Maurice White's growing interest in Brazilian music following his travels in South America. Appearing as a brief interlude following Runnin', it brought Nascimento's melodic writing into Earth, Wind & Fire's distinctive vocal arrangements and contributed to the international musical character of All 'N All. Brazilian Rhyme became an enduring part of Earth, Wind & Fire's catalogue, appearing on subsequent compilations and in live performances. Its wordless vocal melody and Brazilian influences helped introduce Nascimento's composition to a wider international audience, while the recording remained popular among DJs and collectors.