Carlos Monteiro de Souza

Origin

Niterói, RJ

Also known as

Carlos José Monteiro de Souza

Years active

1930s–1975

Genres

bossa nova, samba-canção, popular music

Instruments

violin, piano, orchestra

Biography

Carlos Monteiro de Souza was a prominent Brazilian composer, arranger, and violinist who left a significant mark on Brazilian popular music. Born in Niterói, Rio de Janeiro, he began his artistic career in the early 1930s while still a law student. He was one of the founders of the vocal and instrumental group "Os Quatro Diabos," with whom he recorded three albums and performed on radio and in films such as "Alô, alô, Brasil!" and "Alô, alô carnaval!". After the group disbanded, Monteiro de Souza transitioned to a solo career, focusing on composition and arrangement.

Throughout his career, he worked as an arranger for major record labels like Odeon, Companhia Brasileira de Discos (later Phonogram), and CBS. He also directed choirs and orchestras for Rádio Nacional, TV Excelsior, and Philips. His work as an arranger was highly sought after, contributing to numerous albums for artists such as Doris Monteiro and Luiz Ayrão. As a composer, his primary collaborator was Alberto Paz, and their songs were recorded by renowned artists like Nora Ney, Helena de Lima, and Zezé Gonzaga.

Monteiro de Souza's versatility extended to various musical styles, including bossa nova, as evidenced by his album "Metais Em Brasa Na Bossa Nova." He also utilized pseudonyms such as Maurice Monthier and Black White. His contributions enriched Brazilian music through his arrangements, compositions, and orchestral direction, solidifying his legacy as a key figure in the country's musical landscape. He passed away in 1975, leaving behind a rich body of work.