Paulinho de Costa: The Groove Under The Groove

From JHiFF 2024: A Look at the Rhythmic Genius of “The Groove Under the Groove”

From “What’s Going On” with Marvin Gaye to “Superstition” with Stevie Wonder, Paulinho de Costa’s rhythms have shaped the sound of popular music for decades. His story, told in The Groove Under the Groove, which premiered at JHiFF 2024, gives long-overdue spotlight to a percussionist whose work has been heard by millions, whether they know it or not.

Born in Brazil, Paulinho brought the heartbeat of samba, bossa nova, and Afro-Brazilian rhythm into the studios of Los Angeles, where he quietly became one of the most recorded percussionists of all time. His versatility, precision, and soul have made him a go-to collaborator across genres, from soul and funk to pop, jazz, and film scores.

Here’s just a small sampling of the iconic tracks featuring Paulinho’s magic touch:

Iconic Tracks Featuring Paulinho de Costa

• “What’s Going On” – Marvin Gaye

• “Superstition” – Stevie Wonder

• “Don’t Stop ’Til You Get Enough” – Michael Jackson

• “Get on the Floor” – Michael Jackson

• “I Can’t Tell You Why” – Eagles

• “Breezin’” – George Benson

• “Give Me the Night” – George Benson

• “You Are” – Lionel Richie

• “Let’s Groove” – Earth, Wind & Fire

• “La Isla Bonita” – Madonna

• “Rock With You” – Michael Jackson

• “After the Love Has Gone” – Earth, Wind & Fire

• “Human Nature” – Michael Jackson

• “Off the Wall” – Michael Jackson

• “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough” (’77 Diana Ross version)

• Film scores for The Color Purple, Coming to America, and more

Paulinho’s name might not be front and center on the marquee, but his rhythms are the steady pulse underneath some of the greatest music ever made.

The Groove Under the Groove tells the story of the man behind the beat, his roots, his rise, and his legacy. His rhythms don’t just fill the background, they drive the whole thing forward.

He’s not just part of the groove. He is the groove.