Ritchaz Cabral

Ritchaz Cabral is a Portuguese musician of African ancestry who seamlessly blends the vibrant rhythms of Cape Verdean music with the sophistication of Jazz and Afrobeat. His music is deeply rooted in the traditional sounds of his homeland, while also embracing contemporary influences from around the world.

Born and raised in Lisbon, Portugal, Ritchaz’s musical journey began at the tender age of 13. Inspired by the rich tapestry of Cape Verdean music, he started experimenting with various genres, including slow Funanás and pulsating Batuques. His lyrics often explore themes of love, respect, and social justice, reflecting his deep-seated awareness of human connection and societal issues.

Ritchaz’s musical career has been marked by a series of fruitful collaborations and solo endeavors. Between 2003 and 2012, he formed the duo Ritchaz & Keky, showcasing their diverse musical influences on the Portuguese scene. In 2011, he joined the reggae band Luso United, further expanding his musical horizons.

A keen student of music production, Ritchaz pursued a two-year program in Creativity, Production, and Marketing at the Institute of Creativity, Arts, and New Technologies – Restart in Lisbon. This experience equipped him with the skills to record, produce, mix, and master music for a wide range of artists.

In recent years, Ritchaz has ventured into the world of Ethnomusicology, joining the Skopeofonia group at the University of Aveiro to research and analyze musical practices in the neighborhood of Cova da Moura in Lisbon. This immersion in cultural exploration has further enriched his musical perspective.

Ritchaz’s debut album, “Mal Famadu,” released in 2017, received critical acclaim and solidified his position as a rising star in the Portuguese music scene. The album seamlessly blends Cape Verdean rhythms with jazzy inflections, showcasing Ritchaz’s unique blend of musical heritage and global influences.

Currently based in London, Ritchaz continues to expand his musical horizons, collaborating with local musicians to infuse his Cape Verdean roots with the vibrant energy of London’s music scene. His band, featuring Marley on drums, Derek on bass, Ivan on keyboards, and Elliot on guitar, brings a fresh perspective to his already captivating sound.

With his unwavering dedication to music and his passion for exploring cultural connections, Ritchaz Cabral is a true ambassador of Cape Verdean music and a force to be reckoned with in the international music scene. His music is a testament to the rich tapestry of sounds that have shaped his life and continues to inspire his creative journey.