Zito Borborema

Origin

Taperoá, PB

Also known as

Zito

Years Active

1956–1987

Genres

forró, xaxado, baião, coco de roda, xote, arrasta-pé, música nordestina

Instruments

voz, triângulo, pandeiro

Biography

Manoel Valdivino de Souza, better known as Zito Borborema, was a singer, songwriter, and percussionist from Paraíba, acclaimed as the "King of Xaxado". Born in Taperoá, Paraíba, since childhood he showed an aptitude for music, improvising verses and rhythms with everyday objects. In his teens, he was already accompanying accordionists with his tambourine and triangle, demonstrating a natural talent for northeastern rhythms. His musical career officially began in 1956, performing as Zito Borborema and Seus Cabras da Peste.

Zito Borborema had a deep connection with other great names in northeastern music. He was married to accordionist Chiquinha do Acordeon and is the father of Perpétuo Borborema. His trajectory includes partnerships and influences from artists such as Luiz Gonzaga, Jackson do Pandeiro, Marinês, Abdias, and Dominguinhos. In fact, Zito Borborema was part of the original lineup of Trio Nordestino, alongside Dominguinhos and Miudinho, in 1957, a group that became a pioneer in the genre.

His repertoire covers various northeastern rhythms, such as xaxado, coco de roda, baião, xote, and arrasta-pé. Among his greatest hits, "Mata-Sete", "Padre Cícero", "Alegria da Festa", "Gente da Gente", "Zé da Onça", and "Ilha do Marajó" stand out, songs that continue to be appreciated in forró gatherings. Zito Borborema left a significant legacy in northeastern music, being remembered for his high-pitched voice, excellent rhythm, and contribution to the consolidation of genres such as forró and xaxado. He passed away on March 25, 1997, a victim of an intestinal infection.

Discography

• O Nordeste Canta (1956)
• Forró Paraibano (1965)
• Zito Borborema e Seus "Cabras da Peste" (1968)
• Zito Borborema (1968)
• Forro Quente (Parra Você Dançar sem Parar) (1971)
• Os Dois Agarradinhos (1973)
• Mensagem Do Nordeste (1973)
• Fandango No Mexico (1973)
• Forrozão (1973)
• Cajueiro Velho (1975)
• Forró (1977)
• Alegria da Festa (1978)
• Sabiá Cantador (1983)
• O Forró do Zito Borborema (1989)
• Homenagem ao Mestre
• Zito Borborema e Seus Sucessos
• E Seus Sucessos