while samba comes to mind when thinking of rio de janeiro, pagode is in fact the most played music in rio.  pagode is the soundtrack to barbeques, city parties, and many events and gatherings.

pagode did not start out as a musical genre, yet today pagode is one of the most popular rhythms in rio de janeiro and brazil.

born in the outskirts  of rio de janeiro, and made popular by the favelas, pagode is a music style of great cultural significance - the term was used to describe parties held by afro-brazilians who had recently become free in the late 18th century.

some say these parties were already held in pre-emancipation times in senzalas, afro-brazilian enclaves in the outskirts of large cities - the main purpose of these events was for a newly emancipated people to celebrate their freedom and cement their culture, thus the rhythms were always upbeat and joyful.