Zé Monteirão was born José Alves de Oliveira Filho in Suassuna, Paraíba, in Brazil's Northeast region. Growing up there, he absorbed the local rhythms like forró and baião, influenced by figures such as Luiz Gonzaga and Jackson do Pandeiro.
In the early 2000s, his song 'Nordestinando, Suassunando' gained attention, speaking to the experience of Northeasterners living away from home. He followed it with albums like 'O Bode do Sertão' in 2005 and 'Canções do Nordeste' in 2008.
His lyrics sometimes touched on social and political themes, which drew criticism in some circles. He has performed with musicians including Abelardo da Viola on viola and vocals, and Cássio Cunha on guitar and vocals.
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