The Best Sertanejo Universitario Clubs In So Paulo

Country music, or Musica Sertaneja, has been around in Brazil for decades, but not until the Sertanejo Universitario came along in the early 2000s did it become popular in South America’s largest city, São Paulo. The Sertanejo Universitario is a mixture of country music, with funk beats originating from Rio de Janeiro and rhythms from the interior of Bahia (Arrocha). The beat took the city by surprise and clubs started to pop up even in the trendiest neighborhoods, usually reserved for electronic and samba clubs. Below is a list of the best clubs to hear Sertanejo Universitario in São Paulo.

Villa Mix

When it opened in 2011, Villa Mix promised to be a nightclub catering to a select, demanding clientele. Located in trendy Vila Olímpia, Villa Mix has become known as one of the city’s meeting points for Sertanejo Universitario celebrities and prides itself on first class service. From the dance floor clients can see the nine private rooms, able to accommodate 10 people at a time, four private lounges and a VIP area which can hold 300 people. In addition, everyone has access to the two bars serving the house, and usually has two live attractions per night. Get your name on the list to receive special discounts on entrance fees. http://instagram.com/p/BLnqUXCBmxZ/

Wood’s

If sophistication is what you want, then Wood’s is the place to go. A copy of a famous country music dance hall in Curitiba, the São Paulo branch opened at the end of 2010 when Sertanejo Universitario was already in full swing in the city. Like some of the classy electronic nightclubs around Vila Olímpia, Wood’s caters to the A-list crowd. Showcasing some of the hottest Sertanejo Universitario artists around, the house’s light and sound systems and retractable stage impresses visitors. For half price entry, go to their website and put your name on the list. http://instagram.com/p/BLvmSc-jmRS/

Villa Country

The most traditional country music house in São Paulo is almost a club for country music aficionados. Due to the recent popularity wave, the Villa Country has also adhered to the Sertanejo Universitario style of music and reserves one of its nights for enthusiasts. With 12,000 square feet of space, the house has not only a dance floor, but several bars, a restaurant, shops to buy country-themed accessories and pool tables. On a Friday or Saturday the establishment can pack in up to five thousand people. http://instagram.com/p/BQZADcEBLaP/

Brook’s

Inaugurated in 2012 by one of the most famous Brazilian country singer duos around, Marcos & Belutti, the house has 13,000 square feet divided into two spaces. Catering to clients from in their early 20s to mid 30s, the house has 10 private rooms and a sushi bar. http://instagram.com/p/BNXgSXHjQ6A/

Terra Country

Located in the southern neighborhood of Interlagos, Terra Country has presented several big-name artists since it opened its doors in 2011. The ample space, divided into dance floor, private rooms and outside area, as well as its state-of-the-art sound equipment keep Sertanejo Universitario music lovers coming back week after week. http://instagram.com/p/vsAE1qltny/

Coração Sertanejo

One of the few clubs in São Paulo which is opened Thursday through Monday, the house, located in the Interlagos neighborhood, has the advantage of having an outdoor area which overlooks the Guarapiranga dam. Also, the house was designed so that patrons can see the two stages from any point in the club. The club offers 11 private rooms and a balcony with an American bar. http://instagram.com/p/BNCKRQIB5Qy/