Lutchinha, was born on the island of Sao Vincente in the Cape Verdean islands. She has sung in ''Noites Caboverdianas'' in Sao Vincente, and participated in ''Festival de Vozes Femeninas'' in Praia, with Cesaria Evora, Zenaida Chantre, Titina, and other major artists. In 1988 she represented Cape Verde in the International Students Festival in the Soviet Union and has performed in Portugal. Lutchinha has recorded with many Cape Verdean artists, including Ramiro Mendes, Calu Bana, Ze Rui, and Jaqueline Fortes. Maria ''Lutchinha'' Leite's newest release ''Castanhinha'' is teeming with strong vocals, fearless traditional grooves, and a rich Capeverdean tinged texture. _____________________________________________________________________________________