Besides returning to the U.S. for numerous performances and promotional appearances earlier this year, Jorge acted in Elipsis, a film shot in Venezuela in March, started prepping a new album titled Brazil America, and is now on an extensive North American tour.

Best known internationally for his work as an actor in City of God and The Life Aquatic With Steve Zissou, Jorge - who flavours his samba with elements of pop, soul and funk - is making sure his musical career doesn't slack.

Hailing from the outlying favelas (slums) of Rio de Janeiro, Jorge says his newfound popularity outside Brazil is being enjoyed by many back home. "Where I come from, the people are very happy about my success," drawls the deep-voiced singer, communicating through an interpreter.

However, Jorge indicates he has encountered some negative criticism from the media in Brazil. "Journalists, many who are poorly paid, look at my success and they don't understand it. They can't comprehend that someone from the favelas could find success around the world. It bothers them and they are critical of me. But I know they will come around."

Jorge agrees that for many outsiders Brazil seems like a laid-back, liberal country. "You're right, Brazil is an open, easygoing place. But there is a great imbalance between the rich and the poor - 90 per cent of the population is very poor and the other 10 per cent control the wealth and resources of the country. For a foreigner arriving in Brazil, this aspect can be quite shocking.

"But what the poor of Brazil can teach the world is how to be happy. They enjoy today instead of worrying about what will happen tomorrow. They really live in the moment - and this natural joy in living is a deep part of our society."

When the issue of being black in Brazil is raised, Jorge replies in English, "Good question," before switching back into Portuguese. "A big problem is that blacks in Brazil don't know the history of Africa. They have no connection to Africa. Slavery in Brazil was particularly brutal. At the end of slavery [in 1888], black Brazilians were marginalized and, for the most part, have remained that way.

"I am grateful to see how North Americans and Europeans have respected Brazilians like Milton Nascimento, Gilberto Gil and Pelé. It's reassuring, but we still have a long way to go."