Denis Mota

Born in Mindelo, Cabo Verde, Denis Mota always had an interest in music, especially traditional Cape Verdean music. At 6 years old Denis became a member of the choral group of the Salesians church and continued doing so for a few years, developing skills and passion for singing. At age 14 Denis started learning to play the guitar and got his first guitar a year later as a gift from an uncle. The desire to learn and to become involved in Cape Verdean music continued to grow as he got older which led him to learn to play the cavaquinho, another traditional instrument used especially in mornas and coladeiras.   

At age 20, Denis Mota won a talent show that opened many doors and brought him to many stages in the islands, including the most popular music festival in Cape Verde, Baia das Gatas Music Festival. Ten years ago Denis emigrated to USA where he continues to play and sing the beautiful melodies of the islands. He has been performing in Festivals and other big cultural/musical events in many stages in the United States. Denis is currently working on his first album.