Leco Alves

Origin

Porto Alegre, RS

Also known as

Vanderlei da Silva Alves

Years active

1986–1998

Genres

MPB, samba-canção, bossa nova

Instruments

violão, voz

Biography

Vanderlei da Silva Alves, artistically known as Leco Alves, was a talented Brazilian singer, songwriter, and instrumentalist, born in Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, on April 14, 1966. His musical career, although short, left a significant mark on Brazilian popular music. Leco Alves possessed a rare countertenor vocal range, which gave him a unique sonic identity.

Since his adolescence, Leco showed an interest in the arts, initially dedicating himself to drawing and painting. At age 16, he began his musical studies on the acoustic guitar, being partly self-taught, while also refining his techniques with Lúcio do Cavaquinho. In addition, he pursued vocal training with Déa Mancuso and lyric soprano Marga Álvarez. His artistic journey began in 1986, in Porto Alegre, and soon gained prominence, performing in various bars and theaters around the city, such as Bar Opinião, Teatro Mágico, and Orange Bar.

Leco Alves also stood out for his work in musical projects and his participation in shows by other artists, such as Adriana Calcanhoto, Muni, and Luciana Costa. In 1992, he was awarded the Açorianos Music Prize in the Best Singer category. His promising career was tragically cut short on January 8, 1998, in Rio de Janeiro, as the victim of a fatal accident. Despite his untimely departure, Leco Alves left a legacy of compositions and performances that continue to be appreciated by lovers of Brazilian music.