Maria Odete Brito de Miranda was born on May 29, 1959 in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. She grew up in a musical family, surrounded by the sounds of samba and bossa nova. From a young age, she knew that music was her passion and she began singing in local clubs and talent shows.
After years of performing background vocals, Maria Odete, known mononymously as Gretchen, finally found her big break with the release of her debut single, "Dance With Me," in 1978. The song quickly gained popularity and she soon became a household name in Brazil. Her unique voice and charismatic stage presence captivated audiences, leading to the release of her first album.
However, it was her third album, "You and Me," released in 1981, that truly solidified her status as a music icon. The album went 3x-platinum and spawned several hit singles, propelling Gretchen to international fame.
Despite her success in the music industry, Gretchen has also ventured into politics. In 2008, she ran with the Socialist People's Party to be mayor of the city of Itamaracá. Although she was not successful in her campaign, her passion for social issues and community involvement remains strong.
Gretchen's family has also played a significant role in her life. She is the mother of Thammy Miranda, who has followed in her footsteps as a media personality. Gretchen is also close with her sisters Sula and Lara, who have supported her throughout her career.
In July 2017, Gretchen made a surprise appearance in Katy Perry's "Swish Swish" lyric video, alongside hip-hop sensation Nicki Minaj. The video quickly went viral, with clips from the video being turned into popular memes on social media.
Gretchen continues to be a prominent figure in the music industry, collaborating with both emerging and established artists. Her unique sound and fearless attitude have made her a beloved figure in Brazil and beyond.
As she continues to push boundaries and explore new opportunities, Gretchen remains a shining example of perseverance and talent in the world of entertainment.