Waldonys

Origin

Fortaleza, CE

Also known as

Waldonis José Torres de Menezes

Years active

1988

Genres

forró, baião, northeastern music

Instruments

accordion, diatonic accordion

Biography

Waldonis José Torres de Menezes, better known as Waldonys, was born in Fortaleza on September 14, 1972. The son of an amateur accordionist who encouraged him from an early age, he began his musical studies through private lessons at the age of eleven. Later, he honed his musical training with theoretical classes at the Alberto Nepomuceno Conservatory, developing a solid technical foundation on his main instrument, the accordion.

During his early career, he had the opportunity to meet the renowned musician Dominguinhos, who introduced him to the legendary Luiz Gonzaga. This important connection opened doors for his participation in the recording of the LP Aí Tem, released in 1988, on the track "Fruta Madura", where his name was even mentioned by the "King of Baião" himself. From that moment on, he built a striking career within northeastern music, releasing several prominent albums such as Viva Gonzagão and Coração da Sanfona.

In addition to his established career as a forró and baião singer and instrumentalist, Waldonys also nurtures a great passion for aviation, working as a skydiver and acrobatic pilot. This adventurous side of his life has generated memorable moments, such as the recording of a music video for the song "Sonho de Ícaro" in partnership with the famous Smoke Squadron (Esquadrilha da Fumaça). Thus, he successfully balances his dedication to accordion art and his career in the skies.