Xexéu

Origin

Salvador, BA

Years active

1990–Present

Genres

axé music, samba reggae, mpb, samba

Instruments

vocals

Biography

Alfredo de Souza Cerqueira Filho, widely known as Xexéu, is a Brazilian singer and composer who rose to prominence in the 1990s.

His musical journey began at the young age of twelve, singing in neighborhood groups in Bahia. He later joined the Olodum group in 1990, where he stayed for eight months. A pivotal moment in his career came with an invitation to audition for Timbalada, a band formed by Carlinhos Brown. With Timbalada, Xexéu achieved significant success, both as an interpreter and composer, notably with the hit song "Beija-Flor," co-written with Zé Raimundo. This song even became a theme for a novela in Japan and was covered by artists like Emílio Santiago and Marina Lima.

Xexéu was recognized as the revelation singer of the Bahian Carnival in 1994 and 1995, receiving accolades such as the Bahia Folia and Dodô e Osmar trophies. After leaving Timbalada in 1997 to pursue a solo career, he released his first CD, "O Voo do Beija Flor." He continued to be active in the music scene, performing with other bands like Baianada and Tribal, and has maintained a solo career, exploring various musical styles including MPB with a jazzistic touch.