LUCIANO LEÃES – BUILDING BRIDGES BETWEEN R&B / NEW ORLEANS PIANO AND LATIN AMERICA

Brazilian pianist prepares a new album recorded with New Orleans greats and is recognized by the New Orleans Jazz Museum as one of the leading representatives of New Orleans Piano.

Luciano Leães has established himself as one of the foremost representatives of R&B and New Orleans piano in Brazil and Latin America. The prestigious New Orleans Jazz Museum has acknowledged his significance, stating:
 

"Luciano Leães is the leading representative of New Orleans piano in Brazil and perhaps in Latin America."
 

With nearly 30 years of career, the pianist, composer, and arranger has shared the stage with legends such as Carey Bell, Hubert Sumlin, Tony Coleman, James "Boogaloo" Bolden and Annika Chambers. His unique style blends the traditions of blues and jazz with South American rhythms, creating an authentic musical identity that resonates with audiences worldwide.
 

Ron Levy, an award-winning pianist and producer who has played alongside B.B. King and Albert King, once declared:
 

"What’s the perfect mix of New Orleans R&B and Brazilian soul? Luciano Leães & The Big Chiefs!"
 

Some may wonder how a Brazilian musician earned recognition as part of this elite group. Reggie Scanlan, bassist of The Radiators, offers a clue:
 

"I just love playing with this guy! Luciano Leães is the real deal. His groove is so funky and deep it can't be measured. I've played with some of the best (Professor Longhair, James Booker), and I can say this Brazilian musician brings the same passion and technique they had to his performances."
 

In 2023, Leães made history as the first Brazilian pianist to perform at the New Orleans Jazz Museum, further solidifying his deep connection with the city and its musical culture. His impact was recognized by the prestigious Blues Matters! Magazine (UK), which nicknamed him the "Brazilian Professor", a tribute to the legendary New Orleans pianist Professor Longhair.

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A Strong International Presence

Leães has left his mark on the international scene, performing at renowned festivals such as the New Orleans Jazz Fest (USA), Montreal Jazz Festival (Canada), and Lucerne Blues Festival (Switzerland). In 2013, he was invited to open for Elton John at Estádio do São José in Porto Alegre, delivering a memorable solo performance.

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New Orleans as a Second Home

Regularly active in the Southern U.S. music scene, Leães performs at legendary venues like the Maple Leaf and Tipitina’s, true temples of New Orleans music. Additionally, the Brazilian pianist is responsible for the Jazz Fest Kickoff at the Maple Leaf, an event that launches the venue's concert schedule during New Orleans' most important music festival – and possibly the most significant in the world.

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During his tours, he has shared the stage with some of the city's biggest names, including Lionel Batiste Jr., John Fohl, Jon Cleary, Kirk Joseph, Eddie Christmas, and Reggie Scanlan. He also took part in the posthumous release of the live album Live at Chicago, by his piano guru and the greatest R&B piano legend of New Orleans – the iconic Professor Longhair. On that occasion, Leães took his idol’s place at the piano, performing alongside a band of top local musicians at the Louisiana Music Factory.

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Discography & Awards

Leães has released the albums Power of Love (2015) with his band The Big Chiefs, followed by the live album Live at Pianístico, recorded in Joinville, Brazil. His career also stands out for his work as a studio musician and producer, earning him four Açorianos Awards as a producer and instrumentalist.

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His latest singles, Fessta Brasilis – featuring Grammy-winning percussionist Tuti Rodrigues and renowned New Orleans tuba player Kirk Joseph – and Song for JB, recorded with the Unisinos Anchieta Orchestra, reaffirm his versatility and ability to connect Brazil with New Orleans.

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A New Album Recorded in New Orleans

Currently, Leães is finalizing his new album at Rhythm Shack Studios (New Orleans), produced by Grammy winner Jake Eckert. The album features guest appearances by Terence Higgins (Dirty Dozen Brass Band, Warren Haynes, Norah Jones), Cornell Williams (Jon Cleary), and John Fohl (Dr. John), all award-winning musicians and icons of the New Orleans music scene. The album is set for release in 2025, followed by an international tour in the second half of the year.

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Bridging Cultures

Leães’ influence extends beyond the stage, gaining recognition on New Orleans’ WWOZ radio and various international media outlets. His commitment to preserving the tradition of New Orleans piano while embracing his Brazilian and Latin American roots reinforces his status as one of today’s foremost representatives of the genre. With a unifying approach to music, Luciano Leães builds bridges wherever he goes, proving that art is a force without borders.