ZEM
| Company type | Band |
|---|---|
| Industry | Music |
| Founded | 1982 |
| Defunct | 1987 |
| Headquarters | Loures , Portugal |
| Products | Music (pop rock, psychedelic rock) |
ZEM was a pop rock ensemble originating from Loures, Portugal, active between 1982 and 1987. They are acknowledged as trailblazers of psychedelic rock within the Portuguese music scene and were distinguished by their groundbreaking stage presentations.
History
The band initially formed in 1982 under the name Os Senhores, comprising Francis Riba on bass and vocals, João Sanguinheira handling lead guitar and vocals, and Victor Bagoim on keyboards and vocals. Shortly thereafter, drummer António José joined the lineup, followed by guitarists Paulo Santos and To Gonçalves, who enriched the group's musical texture.
By 1984, the ensemble adopted the name ZEM. Their debut single, "Louca Paixão," released in March 1987, marked a milestone as they became the first Portuguese act to enter the charts of Lisbon’s Radio Cidade. Prior to this, in 1981, they had participated in the Rock Rendez-Vous competition under their original moniker but reverted to it due to contest regulations prohibiting bands with previously released records.
Although they achieved early recognition and launched their debut album in November 1987, internal disagreements resulted in the band's breakup soon after.
Members
- Francis Riba - (bass guitar, vocals)
- João Sanguinheira - (lead guitar, vocals)
- Victor Bagoim - (keyboardist, vocals)
- Antonio José - (drums)
- Tó Gonçalves - (guitar)
- Paulo Santos - (rhythm guitar, percussion)
Discography
- March 1987 - "Louca Paixão" (single)
- November 1987 – ZEM (studio album)