Leandro & Leonardo

Origin

Goianápolis, GO

Years active

1983–1998

Genres

sertaneja, country, romântico

Instruments

vocal

Biography

Leandro & Leonardo was one of the most successful Brazilian sertaneja music duos, formed by brothers Luiz José Costa, known as Leandro, and Emival Eterno da Costa, known as Leonardo. Originally from Goianápolis, Goiás, the brothers worked on their family's tomato plantation before pursuing music, achieving massive national fame in the late 1980s and 1990s with iconic hits such as "Pense em Mim" and "Não Aprendi a Dizer Adeus".

Throughout their 15-year career, the duo released numerous chart-topping albums and sold tens of millions of records, blending traditional country influences with romantic ballads. They collaborated with and crossed paths with many prominent figures in Brazilian music, including Zezé Di Camargo & Luciano, Chitãozinho & Xororó, and Roberta Miranda, cementing their legacy as giants of the genre.

The partnership tragically ended on June 23, 1998, when Leandro passed away from a rare form of lung cancer known as Askin's tumor. Following his brother's untimely death, Leonardo successfully transitioned into a prolific solo career, while their collective catalog remains a foundational cornerstone of Brazilian sertaneja music.