Born to a pianist mother, Clarisse Leite, and a poet father, César Dias Baptista, Baptista's early life was marked by a deep appreciation for the arts. From 1955 to 1959, he studied classical piano, laying the foundation for his future musical endeavors. He then went on to study double bass from 1962 to 1963, further expanding his musical horizons. Additionally, Baptista took up acoustic guitar from 1963 to 1965, demonstrating his versatility as a musician.
In 1966, he co-founded the influential Os Mutantes band with his brother Sérgio Dias and Rita Lee. As a member of the band, Baptista played bass guitar, keyboards, and sang, leaving an indelible mark on the Brazilian music scene. However, his time with Os Mutantes came to an abrupt end in 1973 due to creative differences and personal struggles, including a stint in the hospital for LSD use.
Undeterred, Baptista attempted to transition into a career as a musical producer in 1974, but ultimately found success elusive. This setback served as a catalyst for him to pursue a solo career, and in the same year, he released the album Lóki?, which is widely regarded as his magnum opus by many critics.
Throughout the 1970s, Baptista continued to explore his musical talents, recording two albums with the band Patrulha do Espaço between 1977 and 1978. He later resumed his solo career, releasing music that showcased his growth as an artist.
In 2006, Os Mutantes reunited without Rita Lee, and Baptista rejoined his brother Sérgio and drummer Dinho Leme, marking a triumphant return to the band after 33 years. However, his time with Os Mutantes came to an end once again in 2007, as he chose to focus on personal projects.
Today, Baptista resides in the city of Juiz de Fora with his wife, Lucinha Barbosa. He devotes a significant amount of time to his passions, including painting, singing, and writing songs. Additionally, Baptista is a committed vegetarian, reflecting his deep respect for the natural world.
