Vanessa da Mata

Origin

Alto Garças, MT

Also known as

Vanessa Sigiane da Mata Ferreira

Years Active

1992

Genres

MPB, pop, reggae

Instruments

vocals, guitar

Biography

Vanessa da Mata is a renowned Brazilian singer, songwriter, and novelist, born in Alto Garças, Mato Grosso, in 1976. Growing up in a culturally rich environment, she was exposed to diverse musical influences ranging from regional rhythms like carimbó to legendary MPB icons such as Tom Jobim, Milton Nascimento, and Luiz Gonzaga. Seeking independence and better educational opportunities, she moved to Uberlândia and later to São Paulo in her youth, where she sang in a reggae band and performed internationally before establishing herself in the Brazilian music scene.

Her breakthrough as a prominent songwriter came when Chico César partnered with her to write "A Força que Nunca Seca," which was recorded by Maria Bethânia and earned a Latin Grammy nomination. Throughout her career, Vanessa has collaborated with numerous musical greats, including Caetano Veloso, Gilberto Gil, Ben Harper, and Baden Powell. Her critically acclaimed albums, such as her self-titled debut, Essa Boneca Tem Manual, and Sim, have yielded massive radio hits like "Ai, Ai, Ai," "Amado," and "Boa Sorte/Good Luck," cementing her status as a leading voice in contemporary Brazilian pop and MPB.

In addition to her musical accomplishments, Vanessa da Mata is an accomplished author, having published her debut novel A Filha das Flores in 2013, which received international editions. She has also received numerous accolades throughout her career, including Latin Grammy awards and nominations, and prestigious domestic honors. Balancing her artistic endeavors with advocacy and motherhood, she remains a vibrant and enduring figure in Brazilian culture.

Discography

• Vanessa da Mata (2003)
• Essa Boneca Tem Manual (2004)
• Sim (2007)
• Multishow Ao Vivo (2009)
• Bicicletas, Bolos e Outras Alegrias (2010)
• Vanessa da Mata Canta Tom Jobim (2013)
• Segue O Som (2014)
• Caixinha de Música (Ao Vivo) (2017)
• Quando Deixamos Nossos Beijos na Esquina (2019)
• Nossos Beijos (Ao Vivo no Circo Voador) (2020)
• Vem Doce (2023)
• Todas Elas (2025)