We had the good fortune of connecting with Indio Jackson and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Indio, we’d love to hear what makes you happy.
Working with music is my passion, so for me I feel like im not really working, its like getting paid to have fun, there is no better feeling!
Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
My art is a reflection of my life — raw, rhythmic, and rooted in resilience. I come from Salvador, Bahia, a place where culture pulses in the streets and music is in our blood. What sets me apart is how I fuse Afro-Brazilian percussion with capoeira, dance, and movement to create not just music, but a full-body, immersive experience. I’ve spent nearly three decades refining my sound, blending tradition with innovation, and always staying connected to my roots.
But my journey hasn’t been easy. In fact, it’s been anything but. When I started out, I didn’t even have money to buy real instruments — I played on buckets, cans, and pans in the streets of Brazil. I didn’t let that stop me. I stayed focused, driven by passion, and pushed through every barrier in front of me.
There were times I had nothing. I spent almost three years living in my car. For a year, I slept on mats at the gym where I worked. The financial challenges seemed never-ending, but I never gave up. I worked my ass off to develop my craft, investing every ounce of energy into becoming the artist I am today.
And through that struggle came opportunity — performing with some of the biggest names in the world, from Jennifer Lopez and Marc Anthony to Ricky Martin and Anitta. I’ve traveled across continents, bringing the sound and soul of Brazil to global stages.
What I want people to know about me and my brand is this: nothing was handed to me. Everything I have, I fought for. My story is one of grit, heart, and purpose. My music isn’t just entertainment — it’s a celebration of culture, a testimony of survival, and a reminder that even when you have nothing, you can still create something powerful. That’s the energy I bring to every performance, and that’s the message I carry in my art.
Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
but the places that truly speak to the rhythm and culture that make this city special.
Day 1: Little Havana
We’d start in Little Havana, one of my favorite neighborhoods. It reminds me of Brazil in many ways — the warmth of the people, the music in the air, the strong sense of culture and community. I love Cuban music, and we share so many similarities — from rhythm to food to spirit. We’d walk down Calle Ocho, pop into the local shops, watch people playing dominoes at Domino Park, and of course, eat some authentic Cuban food and listen to live music at one of the bars.
Day 2: Wynwood
Next, I’d take them to Wynwood — this place is like an open-air art museum with walls that tell stories. It’s a mix of creativity and energy that I think every artist can connect with. We’d explore the murals, check out some local galleries, and grab a drink at one of the rooftop spots to enjoy the view and vibe.
Day 3: Miami Beach
You can’t come to Miami without spending time at Miami Beach. We’d hit the sand during the day, walk Ocean Drive, and enjoy the energy of the people from all over the world. At night, we’d catch some live music or dance somewhere with a strong Latin beat — maybe even jump in and play a little percussion if the opportunity comes up!
Day 4: Rinconcito Mexicano
One of my favorite places to eat is Rinconcito Mexicano, a cozy Mexican restaurant that always hits the spot. It’s simple, flavorful, and feels like a hidden gem where locals go. We’d enjoy some tacos, maybe a good margarita, and just catch up.
Day 5: Boteco Brazilian Restaurant
No trip would be complete without visiting Boteco — it’s like a slice of Brazil in Miami. We’d go there for caipirinhas, Brazilian appetizers, and that good-for-the-soul music that always makes you feel at home. It’s the kind of place where strangers become friends and the night turns into an experience.
Day 6-7: Chill, Explore & Live Music
The last couple of days, I’d keep it spontaneous — maybe check out live music events, walk through Brickell or hang at a beach bar. I’d introduce them to some of the incredible local artists and musicians in my circle. Miami’s creative scene is diverse and alive — and I’d want them to feel that energy before they leave.
The best part of Miami is the mix — cultures, sounds, flavors, and people. You can feel the world here, and no matter where you’re from, you find a little piece of home.
Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
Huge shoutout to my amazing Mother and Grandmother—your love and support have been the foundation of my journey. Thank you for always believing in me and pushing me to chase my dreams.
To my Capoeira Masters, Dinho and Rudson—thank you for all the wisdom, discipline, and lessons you’ve shared. You’ve shaped not just my capoeira, but my character.
And to everyone who has influenced my career in a positive way—thank you. Your impact is part of my story, and I carry that with pride every step of the way.
Website: indiojackson@yahoo.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/indiojackson?igsh=c3pjMW9pbWYxYXho&utm_source=qr
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@indiojackson
Image Credits
Indio Jackson
