TITO PARIS

(CV)

When one thinks of music from Cape Verde, a country where morna has been classified by UNESCO as intangible cultural heritage, it's inevitable to mention the contribution of Tito Paris. He recalls listening to his first morna at the age of six, played by his sister —a pivotal moment that sparked his fascination with music. 

Born into a family of musicians, Tito arrived in Lisbon on July 12, 1982, to join the historic group Voz de Cabo Verde. In 1983, his name was already inscribed on one of the historic recordings of Bana, "Dor Di Nha Dor", marking the beginning of a prolific discography that saw him contributing to classic records by artists such as Frank De Pina, Dionísio Maio, Silvino Vieira and Pedro Martins. In 1987, he played on Cesária Évora's eponymous album, further solidifying his reputation. That same year, he debuted solo with "Fidjo Maguado", the start of a celebrated discography that includes titles now viewed as true classics such as "Dança Ma Mi Criola", "Graça De Tchega" and "Guilhermina." The exceptional quality of his music also led him to be sought after by various artists from different genres, ranging from Sérgio Godinho to Paulo Gonzo, and from Vitorino to Né Ladeiras and Mariza.

More recently, in 2022, he played a key role in the revival of Banda Monte Cara, collaborating with guests like Dino D’Santiago and Rui Veloso to recreate a series of classics that helped shape the history of Bana's renowned cultural space in Lisbon. With over four decades of career, Tito Paris is now one of the most prominent ambassadors of Cape Verdean music worldwide and a leading figure in asserting Cape Verdean Creole in Portuguese music and society. He is also the Ambassador of Culture of Cape Verde in the World and a Commander of the Order of Merit in Portugal.