Mariza

Mariza 6

Mariza (born Marisa dos Reis Nunes; 16 December 1973) is a Portuguese fado singer. She is widely recognized as one of the most prominent contemporary fado artists and has played a significant role in the internationalization of fado music.

Early Life

Mariza was born in Lourenço Marques, Mozambique, to a Portuguese father and a Mozambican mother. At the age of three, her family moved to Lisbon, Portugal, where she grew up in the historic neighborhood of Mouraria, known for its strong connection to fado music.

Career

Mariza began singing fado at a young age, influenced by the traditional music of her neighborhood. She initially performed in local fado houses and gained recognition for her powerful voice and emotional delivery. Her breakthrough came in 2001 with the release of her debut album, Fado em Mim, which received critical acclaim and commercial success.

Discography

• Fado em Mim (2001)
• Fado Curvo (2003)
• Transparente (2005)
• Terra (2008)
• Fado Tradicional (2010)
• Mundo (2015)
• Mariza (2018)
• Mariza Canta Amália (2020)

Style and Influence

Mariza's music is deeply rooted in the traditional fado style, characterized by its melancholic and soulful expression. However, she has also incorporated elements from other genres, such as jazz, blues, and world music, which has helped to modernize and broaden the appeal of fado.

Awards and Recognition

Mariza has received numerous awards and honors throughout her career, including several Amália Rodrigues Foundation awards, a BBC Radio 3 Award for World Music, and a Latin Grammy Award nomination. She has performed at prestigious venues worldwide, such as the Royal Albert Hall in London, the Sydney Opera House, and Carnegie Hall in New York.

Personal Life

Mariza is known for her distinctive appearance, often performing in elegant gowns and with her signature short, platinum blonde hair. She is also an advocate for various social causes, including the promotion of Portuguese culture and heritage.

See Also

• Fado
• Amália Rodrigues
• Portuguese music
• Lisbon