I am an American and I write songs in Brazilian Portuguese. It started in 1971 and it never stopped.

How it started

1. Fourth quarter of 1970

   At my application, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints called me to a service and proselytising mission in the State of São Paulo. By the way: I knew nothing about Brazil.

2. First quarter of 1971

   I took guitar lessons in Brazilian music, mainly bossa nova, which was peaking, at a music store in Santa Ana, California. The teacher showed me a whole new world of themes, expression, singing, chords and playing. The first song I learned was The Girl from Ipanema. A great start, no? Then I learned the basics of beautiful Brazilian Portuguese at a Church home in Provo, Utah, over eight weeks.

3. May 1971 to March 1973

   Twenty-two months of mission, in several cities across São Paulo and Paraná. I tried to observe and soak up as much as I could of Brazilian history, culture, music and the spirit of the people. Fascinating, all of it.

4. With a used guitar in hand

   I learned and sang at church activities and family parties: bossa nova, MPB and sertanejo. Brazilians loved it, especially when American and British rock, pop and folk came in. A free way to learn English.

5. To this day

   I never stopped playing Brazilian music, to the joy of my Brazilian wife and many Brazilian friends.