Luanda – The songwriter, performer and violinist José da Silva “Zé Viola”, died Friday at age of 79 after falling from the second floor.
The Ministry of Culture, Tourism and Environment (MCTA) through a condolence note, expresses sadness, recalling the musician’s contribution to the affirmation of Angolan music.
Zé Viola made history in Angolan folk music for translating and singing from Portuguese to Umbundu, two songs of the Fado singer Amália Rodrigues.
Born in Balombo (Benguela), Zé Viola recorded, from 1969 to 1974, the songs “Ambuale”, “Adeus violão de lata”, “Fim do amor”, “Kuka Kembe”, “Kuapua”, “Namahina Tuende”, “Oiça lá ó senhor vinho”, and “Dar de beber a dor”, among other hits.
The musician also recorded songs with the groups Africa Show, Ngoma Jazz and Merengues.
Source: Angola Press News Agency