Zé Helder

Origin

Cachoeira de Minas, MG

Also known as

José Helder de Machado e Bustamante

Years Active

2002

Genres

música caipira, rock, MPB

Instruments

viola caipira, contrabaixo, voz

Biography

Zé Helder, born José Helder de Machado e Bustamante on May 22, 1973, is a Brazilian multi-instrumentalist, songwriter, and music teacher renowned for his mastery of the viola caipira. He began his musical journey in 2002 with the group Orelha de Pau, releasing a self-titled album. His career has been marked by innovative collaborations, particularly with Ricardo Vignini, with whom he formed the duo "Moda de Rock." This project gained significant attention for its unique approach to adapting rock classics for the viola caipira, performing internationally and collaborating with renowned rock musicians.

Beyond his work with "Moda de Rock," Zé Helder has also been a vital part of the band Matuto Moderno since 2010, contributing vocals and viola. He has released several solo albums, including "A Montanha," "No Oco do Bambu," and "Assopra o Borralho," the latter being recognized as one of the best independent albums of its year. Helder is also dedicated to music education, having developed viola courses for conservatories in Pouso Alegre-MG and Guarulhos-SP, sharing his extensive knowledge and passion for the instrument.

Helder's musical exploration extends beyond traditional Brazilian folk music, as evidenced by his "Moda de Rock" project, which showcases the versatility of the viola. His work consistently pushes the boundaries of what is expected from the instrument, blending it with diverse genres and earning him recognition as a significant contemporary artist in Brazilian music.

Discography

• A Montanha (2004)
• No Oco Do Bambu (2009)
• Moda de Rock (Viola Extrema) (2010)
• Assopra O Borralho (2014)
• Moda de Rock II (Viola Caipira Instrumental) (2016)
• Moda de Rock Toca Led Zepellin (2018)
• Orelha de Pau (2018)
• Moda de Rock, Ricardo Vignini & Zé Helder – Brasil (2022)
• Moda de Rock Convida Zeca Baleiro (Ao Vivo) (2025)