Nininho Vaz Maia Essentials

Nininho Vaz Maia’s story is a classic rags-to-riches tale. During his sometimes-difficult upbringing in the Olaias neighbourhood of Lisbon, he became steeped in traditional musical styles such as flamenco, which would later become the cornerstone of his own songs. Key to his appeal is his anything-goes approach; while a pop sensibility defines his work, his music finds room to be both classic, as on the exultant “Bebé”, and contemporary, as on the high-tempo “Quiero Bailar”. It’s this variety that has helped propel Vaz Maia to platinum-selling status in Portugal.