A black-and-white photo of the band Rabasa holding instruments and smiling at the camera. Een zwart-witfoto van de band Rabasa die met instrumenten in de hand in de camera glimlacht.

Rabasa (NLD+CPV)

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Rabasa (NLD+CPV)

Rabasa (NLD+CPV) is a Rotterdam-based band deeply rooted in Cape Verdean musical traditions. At its core are the Ortet brothers – João, Jorge, Tó, and Angelito – who grew up in the village of Rui Vaz on Santiago, learning music and theatre from their family and community. The band’s name refers to an old water source near Rui Vaz, a symbol of both their childhood experiences and the rich cultural roots that inspire their music. Founded in 1998, Rabasa’s lineup soon expanded with singer Terezinha Fernandes and percussionist Hans de Lange, later joined by drummer Mike Shakison.

How you may know Rabasa

  • Performances rooted in Cape Verdean musical traditions, shaped in both Cape Verde and Rotterdam.
  • Collaborations with prominent Cape Verdean musicians such as Américo Brito, Ildo Lobo, Luis Morais, and Manuel d’ Novas.
  • The release of their digital single Petu Abertu in February 2025 and ongoing work on new recordings.
A black-and-white photo of the band Rabasa holding instruments and smiling at the camera. Een zwart-witfoto van de band Rabasa die met instrumenten in de hand in de camera glimlacht.

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