Zilda do Zé

Origin

Rio de Janeiro, RJ

Also known as

Zilda Gonçalves

Years active

1930s–1955

Genres

samba, choro, música carnavalesca

Instruments

vocals

Biography

Zilda do Zé was a prominent Brazilian singer and songwriter, born in Rio de Janeiro. Her artistic career began when she performed on Rádio Transmissora, where she met singer and composer Zé da Zilda. The two formed a musical partnership and eventually married in 1938, performing together on Rádio Cruzeiro do Sul under the guidance of radio host Paulo Roberto, who ultimately named them Zé da Zilda and Zilda do Zé.

In 1944, the duo made their recording debut with the Victor label, releasing the choros "Fim de Eixo" and "Levanta, José." They achieved widespread success in 1945 by focusing on carnival music, recording major hits such as "Conversa, Laurindo" for the 1946 Carnival. Their collaborative work became a staple of Brazilian popular music during the golden age of radio and carnival records.

Following the death of her husband in 1954, Zilda continued her musical journey, releasing posthumous recordings with him for the 1955 Carnival and later paying tribute to him with compositions like "Vai que Depois eu Vou" and "Vem me Buscar." Throughout her career, she worked alongside notable musicians and composers of the era, such as Waldir Machado. Her legacy remains closely tied to the history of samba and carnival culture, often associated with legendary figures like Zé da Zilda.