FTLOP is proud to have dabbled in promoting not only the wine from Portugal, but also the cultural elements that tell the story about the people there. We’ve promoted Portuguese food importers in the USA, numerous artists with a passion for Port still lifes, collectors/sellers of Port books, those who specialize in Portuguese travel logistics and a few other areas not directly related with Port over the years.

Recently having received two emails, coincidentally from Fado performers, both living in the USA but on opposite coasts, I realized that there has never been a music oriented website recommendation. So I realized that instead of choosing between them, the best I could do was to put both of their stories and websites here for anyone interested in Fado or looking to listen to some wonderful music which captures the essential spirit of Portugal.

Ramana Vieira has an impressive musical background and what more do I need to say (to Fado fans) except that five years ago she opened for a Mariza concert. Her parents are from Madeira and she has pretty much dedicated her whole being to music and especially Fado. Check out the website and the music will play in the background. Very enchanting: www.ramanavieira.net

The second vocalist is Michelle Pereira, and I liked her story and her kind face, but when I heard her singing Fado … it touched me. OK, so I am a sucker for Fado, I’d be the first to admit that. But like Ramana‘s music, Michelle’s voice has verve and deserves a good listen. Additionally she is selling a CD which is only available via internet (In My Life/Na Minha) and I make no judgments as I have only heard what is available on the link below. However, I liked her mission which she sent as well:

Your purchase will help fund this lusoamericana artist:

http://www.myspace.com/lusoamericana - make sure your volume is on! : )

The CD consists of 10 tracks celebrating traditional Portuguese music, Fado. The CD features Portuguese Musicians: Davide Zaccaria, Isabel Noronha, Paulo Feiteira, and Filipe Lucas.

  • Create publicity kits for 2008
  • Produce a website
  • Establish an office to continue independently publicizing and producing Fado sem Fronteiras (Fado without Borders) in the US, Canada, and Portugal.