José Menezes

Brazilian multi-instrumentalist José Menezes, also known as Zé Menezes, got involved in the local popular music scene while participating in Rio de Janeiro's Continental quartet, playing along with Radamés Gnattali. He soon began working for Tom Jobim and Emilio Santiago, among other Brazilian artists. In 1955, José Menezes started working as an arranger for Garoto (born Aníbal Augusto Sardinha), later, leading a group called Velhinhos Transviados, playing local and international hits, being awarded in 1962 for best instrumental band. On his album Relendo Garoto, José Menezes honored Garoto's music, soon reuniting his best 1970s compositions on Chorinho in Concert. Local government paid tribute to the talented musician during a live performance at José de Alencar theater on December 16, 1997. ~ Drago Bonacich