Xote dos Amigos

Xote dos Amigos formed in Juazeiro do Norte in the 1970s, with founding members Zé do Norte, Pedro Mendes, and Chico Chagas. They worked with the traditional northeastern Brazilian music called xote, which typically features accordion melodies and lively rhythms. Their debut album came out in 1976, simply titled "Xote dos Amigos."

Their song "Liberdade" became particularly well-known, carrying messages about freedom that resonated during Brazil's authoritarian period. Other songs in their catalog include "Há Esperança," "Vai Chorar," and "Beco Sem Saída."

Zé do Norte handled lead vocals, Pedro Mendes played accordion and composed, and Chico Chagas was the guitarist. The group's sound incorporated various influences over time while staying rooted in xote. They maintained a focus on social themes in their lyrics throughout their work.