Léo Leobons

Origin

Rio de Janeiro, RJ

Years Active

2012

Genres

afro-brazilian, afro-cuban, candomblé, MPB

Instruments

percussion, keyboards, guitar, berimbau, batá drums, atabaques

Biography

Léo Leobons is a highly respected Brazilian percussionist, composer, and master of Afro-Cuban and Afro-Brazilian rhythms. His deep connection to Candomblé, an Afro-Brazilian religion, has profoundly influenced his musical output, infusing it with spiritual and cultural depth. Leobons began his spiritual and musical journey in Candomblé at the age of eight, becoming an Ogã de Xangô, a significant role within the religious hierarchy. This early immersion provided him with an unparalleled understanding of the sacred rhythms that form the backbone of his artistic expression. His expertise extends to various percussion instruments, including the batá drums, atabaques, and berimbau, alongside his proficiency in keyboards and guitars, often blending traditional sounds with electronic elements.

After spending seventeen years in the United States, where he honed his skills playing Afro-Latin music and traveled extensively to Cuba to collaborate with local musicians, Leobons returned to Brazil as a leading authority on Afro-Cuban folklore. He has been instrumental in shaping a new generation of percussionists in Rio de Janeiro, sharing his knowledge and passion for these intricate musical traditions. His dedication to preserving and innovating within these genres has earned him widespread recognition. Leobons has collaborated with a diverse array of notable Brazilian artists, including Maria Rita, Azymuth, Nando Reis, and Pedro Luís ea Parede, showcasing his versatility and the broad appeal of his musical vision.

Leobons's artistic endeavors have also reached audiences through various media, with his work featured in films, documentaries, radio, and television programs both in Brazil and internationally. His debut solo album, "Bá," released in 2012, was a finalist at the Prêmio da Música Brasileira, a testament to its artistic merit. His subsequent album, "Ritual," has garnered critical acclaim and international airplay, solidifying his reputation as a significant voice in contemporary Brazilian music. Through his work, Léo Leobons continues to bridge cultural divides, celebrating the rich heritage of Afro-diasporic music while pushing its boundaries with innovative fusions.

Discography

• Ritual Remixed
• Ritual
• Bá