Benedito Lacerda (14 March 1903 – 16 February 1958) was a prominent Brazilian composer, flutist, and maestro, renowned for his contributions to samba, choro, and música popular brasileira (MPB). Born in Macaé, Rio de Janeiro, Lacerda moved to the Estácio neighborhood of Rio de Janeiro with his mother, Dona Lousada, where he was exposed to a vibrant musical environment. He grew up among notable samba musicians like Bide, Noel Rosa, and Ismael Silva.

Lacerda's musical journey began in the military, where he played the bumbo and later the flute in the regiment's band, performing in the opera "O Guarany" by Antônio Carlos Gomes. After five years, he left the military to pursue music full-time. In 1928, he joined the group Boêmios da Cidade, performing with international artists like Josephine Baker. He also played saxophone in jazz orchestras.

In the late 1920s, Lacerda formed the group Gente do Morro, known for its percussion and flute solos. Although short-lived, it led to the creation of Conjunto Regional Benedito Lacerda, which included renowned musicians like Pixinguinha. This group accompanied celebrated artists such as Carmen Miranda and Francisco Alves.

Lacerda's collaboration with Pixinguinha in the 1940s resulted in about 40 recordings, including hits like "Sofres porque queres" and "Naquele tempo." Despite economic challenges, Lacerda acquired rights to Pixinguinha's compositions, which led to him being credited as a co-composer on many works.

An award-winning composer, Lacerda's Carnival marches and sambas, such as "Vai Haver o Diabo" and "Lero-Lero," became classics. He co-founded the União Brasileira de Compositores and served as director of the Brazilian Society of Authors, Composers, and Writers of Music. Benedito Lacerda passed away in Rio de Janeiro in 1958 from lung cancer, leaving a lasting legacy in Brazilian music.