António Variações

António Variações, born António Joaquim Rodrigues Ribeiro in 1944, was a Portuguese singer, songwriter, and fashion icon who played a significant role in the country's musical landscape during the 1980s. He rose to fame with his unique and innovative style, blending pop, rock, and traditional fado music. Variações challenged societal norms, both in his music and personal identity, as he embraced an androgynous image, often performing in extravagant costumes. His debut album, "Anjo da Guarda," released in 1983, achieved critical and commercial success, spawning hits like "O Corpo é que Paga" and "Estou Além." Tragically, Variações passed away at the age of 39 in 1984 due to complications from AIDS, leaving behind a rich musical legacy that continues to influence Portuguese music to this day.