José Mauro

Origin

Rio de Janeiro, RJ

Also known as

José Mauro Soares da Cunha

Years Active

1970–2024

Genres

MPB, jazz, folk, psychedelia, instrumental music

Biography

José Mauro Soares da Cunha, known artistically as José Mauro, was a Brazilian composer, singer, and guitarist born in Rio de Janeiro in 1948. His musical career gained prominence in the 1970s with the release of cult albums such as "Obnoxius" (1970) and "Viagem das Horas" (1976). These works, which blend MPB, jazz, folk, psychedelia, and Afro-Brazilian influences, have been reissued and acclaimed internationally, attracting the attention of renowned DJs and musicians.

For many years, José Mauro was presumed dead, the victim of a car accident or the Brazilian military dictatorship—rumors that arose due to the long period between the recording and release of his albums and his subsequent disappearance from the public scene. However, he remained alive, residing in the rural area of Rio de Janeiro and suffering from Parkinson's disease. His rediscovery and the recognition of his work occurred mainly after the reissue of "Obnoxius" by Far Out Recordings in 2016.

In addition to his career as a musician, José Mauro also composed soundtracks for theatrical plays, especially for Teatro Tablado, and worked as a music teacher. His music, characterized by a unique sound and poetic lyrics, continues to inspire new generations of artists and to enchant admirers of Brazilian music.

Discography

• Obnoxius (1970)
• A Viagem das Horas (1976)
• Quartin (1997)