Bandidos do Cante

Bandidos do Cante is a Portuguese vocal group formed by five childhood friends from the Alentejo region. The group’s five members – Miguel Costa, Duarte Farias, Francisco Raposo, Luís Aleixo, and Francisco Pestana – all hail from southern Portugal, with four originating from the Beja area and one from nearby Monte Trigo. They are known for blending traditional cante alentejano folk singing with contemporary pop music. The five created a unique sound that honors their roots while appealing to modern audiences. In 2026, Bandidos do Cante gained national attention by winning Portugal’s Festival da Canção and earning the right to represent their country at the Eurovision Song Contest 2026 with the song “Rosa”.

Formation and Early Years (2022–2023)

Initially, the members of Bandidos do Cante grew up immersed in the musical traditions of Alentejo. They often sang local folk songs together at family gatherings and with friends. One evening in late 2022, a casual dinner ended in an impromptu singing session that led to an unexpected opportunity. The band impressed listeners at that gathering and soon after was invited to contribute vocals on the single “Casa” by the popular band D.A.M.A. in collaboration with singer Buba Espinho. That collaboration proved successful. “Casa” garnered millions of streams and heavy rotation on Portuguese radio. It helped launch the young group’s music career.

At the time, they performed under the name “Os Amigos do Alentejo”. In June 2023, during a series of concerts with D.A.M.A. and Buba Espinho at Lisbon’s Coliseu dos Recreios, the five friends decided to adopt the new name Bandidos do Cante. It was a moniker suggested by Kasha (a member of D.A.M.A.). This change marked the beginning of their journey as a defined group blending Alentejan cante and pop.

Breakthrough Singles and Rise (2024–2025)

By 2024, Bandidos do Cante were ready to release their own original songs. In early 2024 they debuted with the single “Amigos Coloridos”. The group co-wrote the song with songwriter Jorge Benvinda and co-produced with Eduardo Espinho. The title, meaning “Colorful Friends,” playfully refers to friendships that turn romantic. “Amigos Coloridos” quickly became a huge hit. It was the most-played Portuguese song on national radio at the time of its release. Off the back of this success, the band performed at over 50 concerts across Portugal in 2024, rapidly building a devoted fan base.

In 2025, the group kept up their momentum with a second single, “Já Não Há Pardais No Céu” (“There Are No Sparrows in the Sky”). This follow-up song reinforced their signature fusion of emotive folk elements and catchy pop, further solidifying their musical identity. Bandidos do Cante’s rising profile earned them a nomination for Best New Artist (Revelação) at the 2025 Play – Portuguese Music Awards. Moreover, the band was invited by Buba Espinho to perform as special guests in four sold-out concerts at Lisbon’s Coliseu dos Recreios. 

Additionally, in late 2025 the band collaborated with acclaimed pop star Diogo Piçarra. They were featured on a reinvented version of Piçarra’s hit song “Tu e Eu” as part of his 10-year career celebration album. This high-profile collaboration introduced Bandidos do Cante to an even wider audience. Their voices blended with Piçarra’s in a modern take on the song. It also underscored the group’s growing reputation in the Portuguese music scene, being recognized by established artists.

Debut Album and Musical Growth (2026)

In January 2026, Bandidos do Cante released their much-anticipated debut album, Bairro das Flores (“Neighborhood of Flowers”), under the Virgin/Universal label. The album features eight original tracks that bridge the gap between tradition and modernity, reimagining the soulful cante alentejano style in a contemporary context. One notable track is “Primavera,” which features a guest appearance by acclaimed singer António Zambujo. This artist from Beja has been a key inspiration for the group. For this project, Bandidos do Cante worked with several renowned producers, including pop artist Agir and musician Eduardo Espinho, to craft a polished yet authentic sound that stays true to their roots.

Furthermore, the band supported the album with an extensive concert tour across Portugal. This tour culminated in two sold-out shows at the Teatro Municipal Pax Júlia in their hometown of Beja. This triumphant homecoming was a symbolic moment for the group, reflecting how far they had come since their humble beginnings. The success of Bairro das Flores cemented Bandidos do Cante’s status as one of Portugal’s most promising new acts.

Road to Eurovision 2026

In early 2026, the group set their sights on Portugal’s famed national song contest, Festival da Canção. They earned a spot directly in the Festival da Canção 2026 final with a powerful new song titled “Rosa”. Unlike some competitors, Bandidos do Cante made it clear from the start that they would gladly represent Portugal at Eurovision if given the chance. The Festival da Canção final took place on 7 March 2026, and Bandidos do Cante delivered an energetic performance as the opening act of the night. By the end of the voting, they won the competition with a total of 22 points, receiving 10 points from the regional juries and a maximum 12 points from the public televote.