Rui Veloso

biography Rui Veloso is a Portuguese singer, composer and musician, born in Lisbon in 1957, but raised in Porto since he was three months old. He is considered the “father of Portuguese rock”, for having been one of the pioneers in the country's musical renewal in the 80s. Rui Veloso started playing harmonica at the age of six and guitar at 15, influenced by the blues of Eric Clapton, Bob Dylan, B.B. King and Muddy Waters. In 1976, he met Carlos Tê, with whom he formed a successful songwriting partnership. In 1979, he signed his first contract with the publisher Valentim de Carvalho. In 1980, he released his debut album, Ar de Rock, which became a landmark in Portuguese rock. The album included the song “Chico Fininho”, which was a national hit and a youth anthem. The album sold more than 100 thousand copies and paved the way for a new generation of musicians who sang in Portuguese. Rui Veloso has released more than 20 albums throughout his career, including originals, live albums and compilations. Some of his best-known songs are “Porto Covo”, “Porto Sentido”, “Não Há Estrelas no Céu”, “A Paixão (According to Nicolau da Viola)”, “Lado Lunar” and “Todo o Tempo do Mundo”. His musical style combines rock with blues, pop and traditional Portuguese music. Rui Veloso also participated in several projects and collaborations with other artists, such as Tim, Xutos & Pontapés, Jorge Palma, UHF, António Variações, Paulo Gonzo and Mariza. In 1992, he was awarded the Order of Infante D. Henrique by President Mário Soares. In 2010, he celebrated 30 years of career with a concert at the Pavilhão Atlântico. Rui Veloso is an artist who stands out for his originality, creativity and musical quality. His songs are full of humor, irony, social criticism and emotion. Rui Veloso's voice and guitar are the central elements of his music, but he also plays piano and harmonica. Rui Veloso is an artist who represents Portuguese culture with a touch of modernity and innovation.