Zé Carioca

Origin

Jundiaí, SP

Also known as

José do Patrocínio Oliveira

Years Active

1931–1987

Genres

samba, choro, MPB

Instruments

cavaquinho, banjo, violão

Biography

José do Patrocínio Oliveira, widely known by his stage name Zé Carioca, was a prominent Brazilian musician and voice actor, celebrated for his skills as a guitarist, banjoist, and cavaquinhista. Born in Jundiaí, São Paulo, on February 11, 1904, Oliveira's musical journey began as a self-taught artist, mastering multiple instruments. He initially worked at the Butantan Institute before transitioning to a full-time music career.

His professional life in music took flight in 1931 when he joined the Columbia Orchestra, led by conductor Gaó, performing at Radio Cruzeiro do Sul. It was during this period that he adopted the banjo, earning him the nickname "Zezinho do Banjo." In 1932, he moved to Rio de Janeiro, where he performed at Radio Mayrink Veiga, collaborating with esteemed Brazilian artists such as Garoto and Pixinguinha. His talent led him to the prestigious Cassino da Urca, where he met the iconic Carmen Miranda in 1939.

Zé Carioca's career gained international recognition when he joined Carmen Miranda and the Bando da Lua in the United States for the 1939-1940 New York World's Fair. He subsequently signed with 20th Century Fox, appearing in films alongside Miranda. His association with Walt Disney, facilitated by Aloysio de Oliveira, led him to voice characters in animated films, most notably inspiring the creation of the beloved Brazilian character Zé Carioca, who debuted in the film "Saludos Amigos" (1942). Oliveira himself lent his voice to the character, solidifying his legacy in both Brazilian music and animation. He passed away in Los Angeles on December 22, 1987.

Discography

• Nanái, Zé Carioca – Personalidades (1956)