Veteran Gilberto Gil and Diverse Acts Mark Fourth Day of Rock in Rio 2026

Gilberto Gil performed at the Palco Mundo on Monday, September 7, during the fourth day of Rock in Rio 2026. The 84 year old musician stated during his set that this might be his last appearance at the festival, citing a need to rest. His performance included a mix of classics, covers of Bob Marley and Rita Lee, and a setlist influenced by his rock and tropicalista roots. He was joined on stage by producer Liminha for the song Vamos Fugir. Other major acts on the Palco Mundo included Elton John, who closed the night, and Luísa Sonza, who opened the stage with a set that blended rock and bossa nova featuring musician Roberto Menescal. American artist Jon Batiste also performed on the Palco Mundo, where he played a cover of Mas Que Nada and performed with local percussionists. At the Palco Sunset, the Brazilian band Roupa Nova performed with guest Guilherme Arantes. Icelandic singer Laufey also played the Palco Sunset, where she performed a song by Luiz Bonfá in Portuguese. While center leaning reports noted that Roupa Nova's popularity overshadowed Jon Batiste's technical performance, center left reports focused on the family friendly and polished nature of Laufey's show. Some center left coverage described Laufey's performance as cute and harmless, while center leaning reports emphasized her instrumental versatility and her views on the authenticity of live music versus artificial intelligence.