Faro’s favourite son Diogo Piçarra

Diogo Piçarra has topped the popular music charts and wowed audiences all over the world. He’s also been a popular figure on our television screens thanks to his work as a mentor on the primetime show, The Voice. Tellingly, despite all the acclaim he’s received, Diogo has stayed humble and connected to his roots here in the Algarve.

“My parents always supported me and believed in my ability as a musician and singer. When times were tough, they were there for me.”

Diogo Piçarra has three number-one albums to his name and stands as a significant figure in the popular music scene – an artist who blends heartfelt emotion with masterful songwriting which captures the spirit of a generation of followers. Known for his soulful voice and introspective lyrics, he has carved out a unique place in the Portuguese music scene. Diogo’s journey is one of passion, perseverance and authenticity.

Diogo was born in Faro, in October 1990. As a teenager, his interest in music blossomed, thanks in no small part to a friendly neighbour gifting him a guitar. Diogo taught himself to play and, in the process, began exploring songwriting. It was while studying at the University of Algarve that he joined with his friends in forming his first band, taking the role of guitarist and writer, rather than singer. Together, they played local clubs in and around Faro, and, although they eventually disbanded, those experiences provided the foundation for what would eventually become a prolific solo career.

Diogo’s Piçarra’s big break came in 2012 when he participated in Pop Idol. From the very start, his charisma and raw talent stood out. His performances on the show demonstrated not only his technical skills but also his ability to connect emotionally with audiences. At the end of the season, Diogo was crowned the winner. It had proved a great showcase for his talents and, as the winner, he won a car and a scholarship to a music course in London.

Winning Pop Idol was a transformative experience, but it was only the beginning. Instead of rushing to release music immediately after his victory, Diogo took time to refine his sound and artistic vision. His patience paid off, as his debut album, Espelho (released in 2015) topped the music charts and attracted critical acclaim and a legion of new fans.

© Pedro MKK

Following the success of Espelho, Diogo quickly established himself as one of Portugal’s most popular and respected artists. A second album, released in 2017, elevated his status even further, with tracks like ‘História’ and ‘Já Não Falamos’ becoming instant classics. The album, which delves into themes of love, identity and self-reflection, solidified Diogo’s reputation as a gifted lyricist and composer. 

There then followed a significant gap between Diogo’s second and third albums, which was mainly due to COVID restrictions. Looking back on that time, Diogo told me he had concerns that his fans might have moved on or even lost interest but, in truth, they were waiting for him. Diogo’s third album also went to number one in the music charts. Its title South Side Boys is a reference to the Faro-based football club Farense and their dedicated fans.

Nearly ten years after his debut album, Diogo is still with the same recording label and his touring band features friends from Faro and dancers from Olhão. Although now residing in Lisbon – a place that gives him ideal connectivity to the music business and entertainment industry – he spent much of Christmas with his wife and young daughter, back here in the Algarve.

“We are a very close family,” Diogo told me. “My parents have always been supportive. They understandably insisted I finish my degree (in journalism), but they always supported my music. Originally, I was a guitarist and not a singer. It was my parents and good friends that gave me the confidence to sing and go solo.”

© Beatriz Morais
© Bruno Correia

With a young daughter to look after and a busy professional career, Diogo has little in the way of spare time. Away from the spotlight, he enjoys exercising and travelling. He also has a somewhat unusual hobby, in that he is an accomplished hairdresser. He developed the skills during lockdown and puts them to good use when touring with his band. Indeed, a significant part of Diogo’s appeal lies in his live performances. 

Whether playing in intimate venues or on grand stages, he brings an infectious energy and emotional depth to his shows. His ability to connect with audiences, often pausing between songs to share personal anecdotes or thoughts, makes his concerts feel like shared experiences.

Diogo’s latest EP, ‘Chuva’ is available to stream and purchase via his Linktree page (@diogopicarra), In March, he will be performing at Casino Estoril, with more live dates to be announced shortly. Diogo is likely to be back here on ‘home’ turf for the PortimãoSardine Festival (in August) and for the highly anticipated tenth edition of Festival F, which takes place in September in Faro. Later in the year, he will be back on our television screens as a mentor on The Voice Kids.

In an industry where trends come and go, Diogo’s music stands out as a testament to the enduring power of authenticity and artistry. As we look forward to a new year, one thing is certain: Diogo’s voice and songwriting expertise will continue to resonate with millions, both here in Portugal and abroad.

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Main photo: © Adriana Urbano

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