Liner notes

Award-winning artist, singer, guitarist and composer. Dino Miranda studied music (jazz studies) at the University of Cape Town from 2001 to 2004. Arranger, producer and CEO of Dinomirandamusic and Trading (SA) and Miramundo Produções (Moz), whose style incorporates elements of Marrabenta, Afro-pop and fusion.

Achievements

  • 2009: MMA (Mozambique Music Awards), Best Jazz
  • 2009: Ngoma Moçambique Awards, Best New Artist
  • 2016: International Songwriting Competition (USA), World Music category winner

Discography

  • 2008: Moya Wa Kaya (album)
  • 2014: Baby Eu Te Quero (EP)
  • 2018: Xiluva (album)
  • 2021: Moçambique (single)
  • 2021: Dança Comigo (single)
  • 2023: A Vida é Bela (single), Afrikasoul Remix
  • 2026: Marrabenta no Coração (single)

Festival performances

  • 2018: HIFA (Harare International Festival of the Arts), Harare, Zimbabwe
  • 2019: MMM Showcase Festival, Maputo, Mozambique
  • 2022: Festival da Marrabenta, Maputo, Mozambique
  • 2022: Rocking the Green Festival, Bathurst, South Africa
  • 2023: Timmervik Music Festival, Sweden
  • 2024: Afrika-Festival Stuttgart, Germany
  • 2026: Festa da Música, Maputo, Mozambique

Tours and international performances

Dino Miranda has performed internationally, presenting his Afro-fusion sound to audiences across Germany, Italy, Portugal, Sweden, Mozambique, South Africa and Zimbabwe.

On Xiluva

When I first heard Dino Miranda's debut solo album "Moya Wa Kaya" way back in 2008, I was immediately captured by the uniqueness of his expression and his skilful musicianship.

It was an impressive offering that defied any particular categorisation, but could broadly be defined as quality World Music from Southern Africa. And over the years, as I continued to listen to this award-winning release and his follow-up, "Baby Eu Te Quero", I realised that while Dino's musical expression is clearly relevant to time and place, it is essentially also a truly timeless sound.

With this newest release, he has again affirmed that besides being a masterful guitarist, a poignant songwriter, singer and inspiring arranger, he also makes music that will still be enjoyed and appreciated in decades to come.

Featuring songs for different occasions and appealing to different moods, this album reflects a multitude of aspects that make up the experience of being human, and just like Dino's life story, it remains deeply rooted while reaching beyond the confines of language or borders.

From irresistible dance tracks like "Marrabenta" and "Maria Joana" or the funky groove of "País Tropical" and "A Vida é Bela" feat. Choppa, to sublime ballads like "Xiluva" and Dino's heartfelt ode to his country of birth, "Moçambique", this is an excellent album and a must-have for every collector.

Overall, one is struck by the authenticity and honesty of Dino's artistry. As with the folksy "Love on the Mountain" (one of my favourites), he again imbues a personal story with a universal message. I give gratitude to Dino Miranda for spreading beauty in a challenging world, and for affirming that love is the key.

Nicky BlumenfeldProducer and presenter of The World Show, Kaya FM, on Xiluva (December 2018)