Nízio

Origin

Delfinópolis, MG

Also known as

José Ferreira Lemos

Years Active

1938–1966

Genres

sertanejo, música caipira, moda de viola

Instruments

vocals

Biography

José Ferreira Lemos, known artistically as Nízio, was born in Delfinópolis, Minas Gerais, in 1930. Since childhood, at eight years of age, he already demonstrated his talent for music, beginning to sing his modas de viola. His musical career was consolidated when he formed the duo "Nízio e Nézio" in 1956, with Ludovico Patrinhani (Nézio). This partnership, nicknamed "Tenores do Sertão", gained prominence in the sertanejo music scene of the time, performing on important radio programs such as Rádio Difusora de São Paulo and Rádio Bandeirantes.

As a composer, Nízio was recognized for his skill and sensitivity, with songs recorded by renowned duos such as Nenete e Dorinho, Primas Miranda, Zico e Zeca, Liu e Léu, and Tião Carreiro e Pardinho. Among his most notable compositions are "Aliança Contrariada", "Flor do Campo", "Sou Demais Em Teu Caminho", "Tempo de Criança" and "Rainha do Paraná". His musical work contributed significantly to the repertoire of caipira music.

Despite his success and recognition as a composer and singer, Nízio's career was tragically interrupted by his premature death in 1966. After the end of the duo with Nézio, he formed the duo "Nízio e Nestor" with Antônio Francisco (Nestor da Viola), but this partnership was also brief due to his passing. Nízio's legacy endures through his compositions, which continue to be performed and appreciated by lovers of traditional roots sertanejo music.

Discography

• See You on the Up & Up (2020)
• Spiteful (2020)
• Phantom Zone (2022)