Q&A: Before Sugar Land show, Brazilian singer Roberto Carlos talks legendary career

Brazilian singer Roberto Carlos has recorded in Portuguese, English, French, Italian and Spanish. It’s earned him the nickname the King of Latin Music.

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Roberto Carlos, who turned 81 last month, performs Sunday at Smart Financial Centre at Sugar Land. Tickets are still available. 

Among his hits are “El gato que esta triste y azul” and “Amigo.” His songs have been covered by countless artists, including Marc Anthony, Ana Gabriel and Thalia, whose gorgeous live version from her 2010 “Primera Fila” album became a hit.

Before his local appearance, Roberto Carlos answered a few questions about his legedary career.

You turned 81 last month. What’s it like being on the road?

It is wonderful to be back, to reconnect with the public with so much love, after two years away from them due to the pandemic. This U.S.A. tour has been very special and very emotional, returning to the stage after so long and being able to share the celebration of my birthday (April 19), and Mother’s Day with my fans.

What comes to mind when you think of Houston?

Houston has always welcomed me with open arms, and I made sure to include this beautiful city in the tour. A beautiful city with a public that always welcomes me affectionately. There are so many good things about Houston — a multicultural vibrant city, the kindness and warmth.

So many artists have covered your songs. Do you have a favorite that was done particularly well?

I appreciate and admire all the artists and bands that have covered my songs. But a personal favorite was the band RC na Veia. which was my son Dudu’s rock band.  RC na Veia would play my songs with rock music arrangements.

Roberto Carlos’ son passed in 2021 after a long cancer battle. The “RC” in the band name stands for Roberto Carlos, and “na Veia” means “in the vein.”