1999

Born in Rio de Janeiro, the samba composer started out his career by the mid-40s at samba school Portela. The group Vocalistas Tropicais made the first recording of a Zé Keti samba, "Tio Sam no Samba", in 1946. By the 50s, he enjoyed success with songs like "Leviana" and "A Voz do Morro". Zé lined up the group A Voz do Morro with Elton Medeiros, Paulinho da Viola, Anescarzinho do Salgueiro, Jair do Cavaquinho, José da Cruz, Oscar Bigode and Nelson Sargento, and together they made three albums. In 1964, he was invited by Nara Leão to perform at the show "Opinião", and produced hits like "Opinião" and "Diz Que Fui Por Aí". "Máscara Negra", was a big hit in 1967. He faced a period of oblivion in the 80s, living in São Paulo and forgotten by performers and recording companies. The situation changed in the 90s, when he moved back to Rio, started performing along with Velha Guarda da Portela (Portela's Old School group) and had many of his sambas reviewed by newer artists. Singer Zé Renato released the album "Natural do Rio de Janeiro" only with Zé Kéti's sambas. Other hits are "Mascarada", "Malvadeza Durão", "Nega Dina", "Jaqueira da Portela" and "Meu Pecado".