Ton Oliveira

Origin

Campina Grande, PB

Also known as

Gleriston de Souza Leite, Tom de Oliveira

Years Active

1979–Present

Genres

forró, música nordestina, música popular brasileira

Instruments

voice, triangle

Biography

Gleriston de Souza Leite, widely known as Ton Oliveira, was born in Campina Grande, Paraíba, on July 9, 1965. He is a singer, composer, and instrumentalist recognized as one of the most significant figures in Paraíba's music scene. His musical journey began at the age of 14, accompanying musical groups and performing songs by renowned Northeastern artists like Luiz Gonzaga and Jackson do Pandeiro. This early exposure, influenced by his father, Juvenal de Oliveira, a poet and composer himself, laid the foundation for his career.

Oliveira released his first album, "Forró pra derreter," in 1991, featuring his own compositions as well as those of his father and other artists. He gained recognition for hits such as "Falta um boi vaqueiro," "Morar no cabaré," and "Paraíba Joia Rara," the latter of which has become an unofficial anthem for the state of Paraíba, celebrating its natural beauty and cultural identity. By 2011, he had released approximately 20 albums, solidifying his status as a prominent musician in the Northeast.

In addition to his music career, Ton Oliveira has also ventured into television, becoming the host of the program "Cantos & Contos" on TV Correio in 2017. This show focuses on rescuing and showcasing Northeastern and Paraíban culture, featuring art, popular curiosities, and performances by established and emerging artists. His dedication to promoting regional culture and his extensive discography have cemented his legacy as a vital contributor to Brazilian music.

Discography

• Morar no Cabaré (2000)
• Vontade de Comer (2001)
• Doido pra Vadiar (2006)
• Isso É pra Quem Pode (2007)
• No Ton de Seu Luiz (2012)
• É Só Alegria (2013)
• Pra Matar Saudade (Acústico) (2015)
• Cabra Desmantelado (2015)
• Um Cantador de Forró (2015)
• Uma Lapada de Forró (2015)
• Só pra Xotear!!! (2021)
• Vaquejada (2023)