Brazilian-born singer-songwriter Carla Hassett built a cross-cultural career blending Brazilian rhythms with American genres. From Chicago’s music scene to Los Angeles stages, her journey highlights versatility, talent, and global collaboration.
Carla Hassett grew up blending Brazilian and American musical influences.
There’s no mystery behind Carla Hassett’s musical identity. Born in São Paulo, she grew up in a Brazilian community in Chicago, where her artistic path began early.
She studied piano and guitar as a child, and even before her teenage years, she was already writing and recording her own songs using her father’s reel-to-reel.
Surrounded by Brazilian music at home, Carla also absorbed the sounds of the Windy City, including rock, blues, and funk — influences that would later shape her distinctive style.
From Chicago’s Scene to Professional Career
It didn’t take long for Carla to turn professional. She began:
- Performing and singing with Chicago-based bands
- Recording jingles for national advertising campaigns
This early phase established her as a versatile and in-demand vocalist.
Career Expansion in Los Angeles
After moving to Los Angeles, Carla built an impressive career as a backup singer, both on tour and in the studio.
She collaborated with a wide range of renowned artists, including:
- Billy Idol
- Sérgio Mendes
- Gino Vannelli
- Gary Sinise
- Solomon Burke
- Flora Purim
- Airto Moreira
- Mike Patton
She also performed alongside major names such as:
- Lila Downs
- Natalie Cole
- Caetano Veloso (at the Latin Grammy Awards tribute)
She built a successful career collaborating with global music icons.
Film and Television Contributions
Carla expanded her reach into film and TV, contributing vocals to soundtracks such as:
- Rio
- Rio 2
- Like Father
- Mozart in the Jungle
These projects reinforced her presence in the entertainment industry beyond live performance.
Education and Teaching Career
Carla studied at the Sherwood Conservatory in Chicago and graduated Summa Cum Laude from Berklee College of Music.
She later joined the faculty of California State University, Los Angeles, where she teaches commercial music, mentoring the next generation of artists.
Influences and Musical Identity
Carla’s influences span Brazilian and global icons, including:
- Elis Regina
- Jorge Ben Jor
- Aretha Franklin
- Freddie Mercury
- Amy Winehouse
She also cites Carmen Miranda as her “patron saint,” reflecting her deep connection to Brazilian musical heritage.
Musical Projects and Artistic Vision
In her album “+Blue”, Carla explored the concept of home and the experience of growing up between two cultures, using tropicalia and samba as her sonic language.
In later songs like “Adriana,” “Sempre Odara,” and “Three Kings,” she embraced the elegance and subtlety of bossa nova, delivering music that resonates with both Brazilian and international audiences.
Advice for Brazilian Musicians in the U.S.
Carla shares valuable advice for artists aiming to build a career in Los Angeles:
“Have a solid education and experience in both Brazilian and American genres. If you are skilled and easy to work with, you can find opportunities here. Americans truly admire Brazilian musicians.” – @carlahassett
FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions
1. Who is Carla Hassett?
A Brazilian-born singer-songwriter known for her international career in music and collaborations with major artists.
2. Where did she grow up?
She grew up in a Brazilian community in Chicago, USA.
3. What artists has she worked with?
She collaborated with names like Billy Idol, Sérgio Mendes, and Caetano Veloso.
4. Has she worked in film or TV?
Yes, she contributed to soundtracks like Rio and Mozart in the Jungle.
5. Does she teach music?
Yes, she is part of the faculty at California State University, Los Angeles.
