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Marco Dos Santos, AKA “Gibi”, was born in Salvador, Bahia, Brazil, the center of all Afro-Brazilian culture. Exposed to such a rich musical heritage as a child, Gibi was introduced early one to capoeira (an Afro-Brazilian dance/martial art form) and candomble. This discipline led to other expressions of dance in the form of Afro-Brazilian styles and folkloric performances. Gibi was a lead member of the renowned Brazilian dance company “Bahia Axe Bahia” and received much recognition for his contribution as an outstanding and skilled performer. He was also one of the original members of the very successful Brazilian group “Timbalada”. Gibi has performed with many folkloric groups in Bahia and the United States, mainly playing capoeira and percussion.

In 1998 Gibi relocated to the United States with the help of his brother Meia Noite, also a talented percussionist. Meia Noite introduced Gibi to Sergio Mendes and the brothers would work together in Sergio Mendes’ band for years to come. Since moving to the U.S., Gibi has led a busy and successful career teaching, performing, and demonstrating his elite skills.

Gibi regularly performs with artists such as Sergio Mendes, Airto Moreira, Afro Brazil, and Vivir Brazil Dance Company. He has travelled around the world with Sergio Mendes as a percussionist and has contributed to his last three albums (Timeless, Bom tempo, and Encanto). He also works with great artists like Kayne West, Enrique Iglesias, Airto Moreira, Luis Conte, Giovanni Hidalgo and Lorenzo Jovanot. In addition, he has played percussion on the “Rio” film soundtrack and the “Angry Birds” video game soundtrack.

BORN IN:
Salvador, Bahia, Brazil

LIVES IN:
Los Angeles, CA

DRUMMING SINCE:
1980

CURRENT PROJECT(S):
Sergio Mendes, Fabiana Passioni

BIGGEST INFLUENCE(S):
My family

FAVORITE ALBUM YOU PLAYED ON:
"Encanto", Sergio Mendes

FAVORITE ALBUM YOU DIDN’T PLAY ON:
"Thriller", Michael Jackson, and "Timeless", Sergio Mendes

CAREER HIGHLIGHT:
Played on the soundtrack of the movie and video game RIO, Sergio Mendes NSJ 2011, Enrique Iglesias and Luis Guerra @ Lopes Tonight.

FAVORITE GON BOPS INSTRUMENT:
Alex Acuna Congas

GON BOPS SET-UP:
Alex Acuna Series Congas and Bongos, Alex Acuna Timbales, Shekere, Bells and toys.