As the composer of "Chiclete com Banana," Gordurinha created one of the biggest hits of the repertory of Jackson do Pandeiro. The emblematic song has also been studied in universities and used as an icon of the cultural relationships between Brazil and abroad, also giving a name to a play by Augusto Boal. Gordurinha also had other successful songs, like "Orora Analfabeta" (recorded by Jards Macalé), "Vendedor de Caranguejo" (recorded by Gilberto Gil), and others. Gordurinha debuted as a singer of his originals in the Rádio Sociedade da Bahia at 18. Of histrionic nature, along with his musical talent, he had success as a humorist. In 1951, he also became a radio producer and host of the Recife and Tamandaré outings. In the next year, Gordurinha went to Rio de Janeiro, where he worked for several radio stations, having been hired by Rádio Nacional, where he hosted a regular show. His first recording was in 1955, in duo with Leo Vilar and accompanied by Severino Araújo and the Orquestra Tabajara. The songs were his original "Soldado da Rainha" and "Sonhei com Você." His biggest hits are "Baiano Burro Nasce Morto," "Chiclete com Banana," "Súplica Cearense," "Baiano Não É Palhaço," "Orora Analfabeta," "Mambo da Cantareira," and "Vendedor de Caranguejo." ~ Alvaro Neder