José Barbosa

Origin

Espírito Santo, ES

Years Active

1960–1974

Genres

samba, música popular brasileira

Instruments

acoustic guitar, cavaquinho, viola americana, banjo, guitar

Biography

José Barbosa was a Brazilian singer, composer, and instrumentalist (guitarist), born in Espírito Santo who moved to Aimorés, Minas Gerais, during his childhood. Visually impaired from birth, he learned Braille in Belo Horizonte and was a self-taught musician, beginning his studies with the cavaquinho and later learning the acoustic guitar, American viola, and banjo. He developed his own guitar method and worked as an instructor of the instrument until 2008.

His artistic career began early, while still a child, in an amusement park in Aimorés, where he imitated famous singers. He even toured with a circus through several Brazilian states, performing as a singer. Later, he worked at Rádio Cultura de Aimorés as a singer and host. In 1951, he moved to Vitória, Espírito Santo, where he sang on Rádio Espírito Santo and played acoustic guitar in maestro Raimundo Vieira's orchestra. He also worked at Rádios Difusora de Colatina and Capixaba.

In 1959, he moved to Campos dos Goytacazes, Rio de Janeiro, where he performed alongside Agostinho dos Santos. He was signed by CBS in 1960, releasing his first LP, "Roteiro da vida," the following year. His period of greatest prominence was in the 1960s, with the release of five LPs by the label, interpreting romantic themes. In 1974, he received the title of Citizen of Campos. José Barbosa passed away in Campos dos Goytacazes after a period in a coma.