The pandemic: books and livestreams, festivals and conferences, activism and memories

It has not been easy for anyone. But, for someone who has made his life a work of art, the pandemic was a litmus test. And it was as part of a collective—alongside his family and with the help of technology—that Gilberto Gil continued his activist work in both music and socio-political movements.

Throughout 2020 and 2021, he received tributes, competed for awards, gave interviews—like the one sponsored by the Brazilian Songwriters Union (UVC), where he talked to that other great singer-songwriter Erasmo Carlos via Instagram in May 2020—took part in debates, and posed as a model on fashion shoots. And, with his usual charisma, he carried on singing. 

Whether spending lockdown at his house in Petrópolis in the Fluminense Mountains or in one of his comfortable apartments in Copacabana and Salvador, the musician shared his daily life, with all its struggles and joys, on social media. 

Discover some of the highlights from his eventful professional life, as well as his increasingly busy private life (the Gil clan now has more than 20 members and continues to grow).

Gil posted family events on social media, including birthdays, the marriage of his youngest son, José Gil, to the singer Mariá Pinkusfeld, and the birth of the twins Roma and Pilar.

There was also the private party to announce the nomination of Mini Kerti's documentary Refavela 40, for an International Emmy, his video chats with his granddaughter Flor and his children, and even tips from the books he devoured during lockdown. 

Gil also used the virtual world for giving and receiving awards and he was honored at the Los Angeles International Music Video Festival 2020. 

He also published a picture that defined 1973: his concert at the University of São Paulo's Polytechnic School on his return from exile.

He continued to defend the environment, recording a speech for the global climate conference #COP26 Climate Ambition Summit 2020. 

As members of the Gil clan are seen as a benchmark for multifaceted—and very Brazilian, elegance—the Hering retail company invited Gil and his family to its end-of-year collection photo shoot. 

In September, Bob Wolfenson shot a flash-lit picture of Gil for the cover of Elle, which was returning to the news stands after a break since 2018.

 Gil was one of the magazine covers, the others being Iza, Djamila Ribeiro, and Katu Mirim.

The December edition of O Globo's fashion magazine Ela featured Gil on the cover and in a photo shoot alongside his granddaughter Flor. The article entitled "De avô para neta" (From grandfather to granddaughter) was written by Marina Caruso, with photos by Leonardo Aversa. 

Having lived his life in the arts, Gil confirmed that he belongs in the world of music. With new songs and collaborations, he did shows and made guest appearances, which were either recorded or streamed live. But it was the livestreams that were the highlight for this generous, prolific performer. 

As Canções de Gilberto Gil por Gil e Iza took place in October on YouTube. 

Ever since the 60s, Gil has also used audiovisual platforms for his creative output. Whether producing, screenwriting, composing soundtracks, or appearing in front of the cameras—as himself or playing a character—he has always been involved in the cinema industry. 

During the second wave of the pandemic, cinematic language provided a relief for the singer-songwriter. The 2019 album Obatalá – Uma homenagem à Mãe Carmen, spawned the documentary Obatalá – O Pai da Criação, which was directed by Flora Gil and released in January 2021. 

In January 2021, Gil was one of the people interviewed for the Belisário Franca documentary Presidente Improvável (Improbable President) about the life of the former Brazilian president Henrique Cardoso, who turns 90 in June 2021. 

During Cardoso's administration, Gil grew close to the then First Lady Ruth Cardoso and he recalled her social action efforts. 

Gil remains active. And you'll not regret following his creative life on social media platforms as his accounts are like windows, letting light and fresh air flood into our homes and lives.