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Nếu Như Em Không Vui
Released Jun 26, 2022
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Quick Facts
Born
1962
1962
From
Cabo Verde
Cabo Verde
Journey
Rufino Almeida, internationally known as Bau, is a Cape Verdean composer, arranger, multi-instrumentalist, and master craftsman whose work has played a significant role in bringing the musical traditions of Cape Verde to global audiences. Born in Mindelo, on the island of São Vicente, he emerged from one of the archipelago’s most influential musical communities and developed into one of its most respected instrumentalists.
Raised in a family deeply connected to music, Bau was introduced to string instruments by his father, Mestre Baptista, a renowned instrument maker. From an early age, he learned not only how to play the cavaquinho, guitar, and violin, but also how to build and customize them. Largely self-taught, he cultivated a distinctive musical voice rooted in Cape Verdean traditions while drawing inspiration from Brazilian music, jazz, and other international styles. His innovative approach elevated the cavaquinho from a supporting rhythm instrument to a celebrated solo voice, leading to the development of the “Cavaquinho Bau,” a customized model that became widely recognized among musicians.
As a teenager, Bau co-founded the group Gaiatos alongside fellow Cape Verdean musicians, including Tito Paris and Biús. He later performed with several influential bands before joining Mindel Band, the ensemble assembled to accompany legendary singer Cesária Évora. His collaboration with Évora became a defining chapter of his career. In 1994, he joined her touring orchestra, and by 1996, he had become the group's musical director, helping shape the sound that introduced Cape Verdean music to audiences across Europe, the Americas, Africa, and Asia.
Alongside his work as a performer and arranger, Bau established a distinguished solo career. His discography includes "Tôp d'Coroa" (1994), "Jaílza" (1995), "Inspiração" (1998), "Blimundo" (2000), "Silêncio" (2003/2004), "Ilha Azul" (2005/2006), "Café Musique" (2010), and "Bau Plays Vasco Martins" (2012). These recordings showcase his mastery of the cavaquinho, guitar, and violin while exploring morna, coladeira, choro, mazurka, and other genres that reflect the diverse cultural influences of Cape Verde.
Bau's international profile expanded further when his composition “Raquel” was featured in Pedro Almodóvar’s acclaimed film Talk to Her. Over the years, he has collaborated with numerous leading Cape Verdean artists and has been widely recognized for preserving, reinterpreting, and advancing the musical heritage of his homeland. Celebrated for his virtuosity, creativity, and dedication to craftsmanship, Bau remains one of the most influential instrumental figures in Cape Verdean music and a distinguished ambassador of the country's cultural identity on the world stage.