Vanessa da Mata

Born in Mato Grosso, Brazil in 1976, singer and composer Vanessa da Mata grew up listening to venerated artists like Antonio Carlos Jobim, Milton Nascimento, and Luiz Gonzaga, as well as the sounds of Rio she picked up on her radio. Despite the strength of her voice, da Mata found her first taste of success as a composer. Teaming up with Chico César, she wrote a song for Maria Bethânia's 1999 album, and was soon working on pieces for Daniela Mercury, Ana Carolina, and César himself. She released her self-titled debut in 2002, followed by Essa Boneca Tem Manual and Sim. ~ Marisa Brown