José Maria Lucchesi, born on March 29, 1897, in Sorocaba, Brazil, was a prominent tango musician known for his work as an accordionist, pianist, harmonica player, and guitarist. He moved to France in the 1920s, during the height of Tangomania, where he established himself in Paris. There, he formed "José Maria Lucchesi Et Son Orchestre," also known as "Orchestre sud-américain José M. Lucchesi," which became renowned for performing and recording tangos, waltzes, and paso dobles.

Lucchesi's music career was marked by his recordings across Europe, particularly in Germany, France, and Spain. He sometimes used the pseudonym "Leal Pescador," reflecting his passion for fishing. His early works in the 1920s and 1930s were heavily influenced by Argentinean tango, and he later adapted his style to suit European audiences. Notably, he met the famous tango singer Carlos Gardel in Paris and dedicated the tango "Gaby Morlay" to a French actress linked to Gardel.

Lucchesi became a naturalized French citizen in 1942 and continued to contribute to the tango music scene until his death in Paris on February 10, 1989. His legacy includes a diverse discography, with releases such as "Tangos Et Paso-Dobles" (1959), "Tangos Romantiques" (1962), and "Los Mejores Pasadobles" (1973), showcasing his ability to blend South American rhythms with European influences.