Claudia Telles
Cláudia Telles de Mello Mattos (August 26, 1957 – February 21, 2020) was a Brazilian singer, composer, and musician, renowned for her romantic songs. Born in Rio de Janeiro, she was the daughter of musician Candinho and bossa nova legend Sylvia Telles. Her parents separated shortly after her birth, and her mother tragically died in a car accident when Cláudia was just nine years old. Raised by her maternal grandparents, Cláudia moved to her mother's former apartment in Copacabana at age 16 after their passing.
Cláudia Telles began her musical career by singing backup for prominent Brazilian artists such as Roberto Carlos and Gilberto Gil. Her breakthrough came when she joined Trio Esperança, which led to her commitment to a career in music. She gained fame with her debut single "Fim de Tarde" in 1976, a major hit that sold over 500,000 copies. Her debut album in 1977 included the hit "Eu Preciso Te Esquecer," which was featured in the telenovela Locomotivas.
Over her career, Telles released ten albums, exploring genres such as soul and bossa nova. Her 1997 album "Por causa de você" was a tribute to her mother. Despite her success, none of her subsequent albums matched the impact of her debut. Cláudia Telles passed away at the age of 62 in Rio de Janeiro due to heart failure.