Biography
Who is Rui Veloso?
Early life and family
Rui Veloso was born in Lisbon on July 30, 1957. His father was Aureliano Capelo Veloso, who served as the first democratically elected mayor of Porto following the Carnation Revolution in 1977. His uncle, António, was a prominent general during the years following that revolution.
The musician grew up in Porto and began playing the harmonica when he was six years old. At the age of 15, he started playing the guitar. He developed an early interest in blues music, influenced by artists such as Bob Dylan, B.B. King, Muddy Waters, and Eric Clapton.
Musical career and success
In 1979, Rui Veloso signed with Valentim de Carvalho. His debut album, Ar de Rock, was released in July 1980 with the help of the band A Banda Sonora. This record and the single Chico Fininho became major successes in Portugal. He even opened for The Police at the Estádio do Restelo in September 1980.
He released several albums throughout the 1980s, including Fora de Moda in 1982 and Guardador de Margens in 1983. His 1986 self-titled album reached platinum status. This led to a large national tour involving 61 dates, with performances at the Coliseu do Porto and Coliseu dos Recreios in Lisbon. He later released the live album Ao Vivo in 1988.
Collaborations and later work
Rui Veloso has worked with many well-known musicians. He performed in B.B. King's shows at the Coliseu do Porto in 1990 and played with him again in 1996 and 1998. In 1992, he recorded the single Maubere with Nuno Bettencourt to support the people of East Timor. He also participated in the Rio Grande project in 1996 alongside musicians like Jorge Palma and Vitorino.
Other studio albums include Auto da Pimenta from 1991, Lado Lunar in 1995, and Avenidas in 1998. He released the compilation O Melhor de Rui Veloso - 20 Anos Depois in 2000 and the album Espuma das Canções in 2005. His 2012 release, Rui Veloso e Amigos, featured various Portuguese artists such as Camané and Carlos do Carmo.
Honours and recognition
The singer has received several prestigious honours for his contributions to music. He was named a Knight of the Order of Prince Henry on June 10, 1992. Later, on January 30, 2006, he was appointed a Commander of the Order of Prince Henry. He has also been recognized with Golden Globes.
Birthday and age
Rui Veloso was born on July 30, 1957, which makes Rui 69 years old today. That birthday falls under the Leo sign. Rui shares the date with 74 other famous people.
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