A group of Brazilian women behind bars applied makeup, donned gowns and competed in a singing contest held on Friday in a Rio de Janeiro prison, during an event designed to spotlight talents and boost confidence ahead of the detainees’ release. Many performed gospel songs, while others offered interpretations of MPB, the acronym for Brazilian popular music in Portuguese — including “Black Sheep” by the much-loved, late singer Rita Lee. Rilary Cristina Leite, 31, used to sing in bars, at parties and at church before being arrested six years ago. We’re in prison and art liberates us,” Leite said, adding that her dream is to sing at the Rock in Rio festival. This year's competition, with the theme of “hope and emancipation,” was the third organized by Rio de Janeiro’s state prison administration authority.

Source: Ethiopian News January 24, 2026 13:49 UTC