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Samba Legal

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Pronounced 'leh-gao', meaning "cool, hip". We play Rhythms from Bahia and Rio de Janeiro-Samba Reggae, Samba Afro, Samba, Parade Style Drumming and more!

You can find more info at https://sambalegalmonterey.com/ Most of the members of Samba Legal have been playing their brand of Brazilian rhythms for the better part of two decades in the Monterey area originally under the name, "Sambahemians" and now "Samba Legal" (pronounced "Lehgao" meaning hip or cool. The roots of these rhythms can be found in Pelourinho, a historic neighborhood of Bahia Brazil, where slaves were brought from Africa to work in the plantations. Music was one of very few avenues of personal freedom for them, and the source rhythm was Jamaican Reggae. This music was creatively fused with the traditional Samba Rio samba to create a what is know today as "Samba Reggae". The leader of Samba Legal, Mark Daoud, studied under renowned Salvadoran percussionist Marcio Peter, making many pilgrimages to Marcio's homeland to learn and bring back a more traditional style of Samba Reggae. He has learned from the actual originators of the music such as Olodum, Ile Aiye and Timbalada. Samba Legal has played at major events throughout the year like 4th of July Parade, Big Sur Marathon and Half Marathon, Parade of Lights, Good Old Days, First Night and West End Celebration. Often the band is accompanied by the Monterey Bay Samba dancers, in full regalia, to help usher you in to the spirit of Bahia. We also offer Brazilian Drumming Class. This can lead to class participation in public and private performances. Drums provided, All levels welcome. Contact us here or call Marco @ 915-0777.

10/12/2026

Warf birthday and burning man in one day

07/08/2026

07/07/2026

It is with heavy hearts that we share the passing of our friend and fellow bandmate, Jay.
Jay was an integral part of Samba Legal. While our group focuses primarily on the rhythms of Bahia, Brazil, Jay brought something uniquely special to our performances. He had a passion for the music of Northern Brazil, especially forró, where his accordion added a beautiful and authentic dimension to our sound. It was always rewarding to see members of the Brazilian community light up when they heard those familiar melodies, often stopping to tell us how much they appreciated hearing a piece of home.
Beyond the accordion, Jay was always willing to jump in wherever he was needed. Whether playing surdo with the band, adding shaker to fill out the groove, or helping strengthen the rhythm section, he did it all with enthusiasm and a smile.
Many of you also knew Jay as the voice of Samba Legal. At our performances, he welcomed audiences, shared a little about our group and Brazilian music, and brought warmth, humor, and energy to every event. He genuinely loved entertaining people, and his joy was contagious.
More than a talented musician, Jay was a friend whose kindness, dedication, and positive spirit helped shape who we are as a group. His presence on stage and off will be deeply missed, but his music and the memories he gave us will remain with us always.
Thank you, Jay, for sharing your talent, your laughter, and your heart with all of us. We will miss you dearly.
Rest in peace, our friend. 💚💛

07/06/2026

well, it was another fabulous parade...thanks to all who came out to celebrate with us!

06/30/2026

and remember, you can keep up on all our doings and upcoming shows at our bright, shiny, new website...https://sambalegalmonterey.com/

06/29/2026

Hey kids...we'll see YOU at the 4th of July Parade in Downtown Monterey bright and early at 10am!!! Woo hooooo!!!

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05/03/2026

04/13/2026

we had a blast at the Monterey Museum Block Party on Saturday...thanks to Steve Vagnini for putting on a fantastic show with a lot of great music and crafts. Heading to the Sea Otter Classic this weekend and then the Big Sur Marathon the following weekend. We'll see you all at Good Old Days May 2....

04/10/2026

By the way....we have a BRAND NEW WEBSITE....check it out!

Address

Monterey, CA
93940

Telephone

+18319150777

Website

facebook.com

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