Maria Clementina
Maria Clementina is a virtual pop band created in Portugal in June 2010. It is composed of four animated characters, alter egos of professional Portuguese musicians. Their sound is described as belonging to the fictional genre “ruralo-pop-inconformado” (nonconformist rural pop).
The project was created by the advertising agency Brandia Central to promote B! soft drinks, a brand owned by the Sumol+Compal group. Maria Clementina does not make direct references to the brand or the beverage; instead, the communication is established through an association with the group’s name.
The band’s first EP was released on June 15, 2010, recorded at the Valentim de Carvalho studios in Oeiras. From it came the single “Veio a Maria Clementina,” which was played on the radio and distributed for free online and in issue No. 49 of Blitz magazine.
Musicians’ Identities
While it is known that the artists behind Maria Clementina are famous and recognized for their solo musical careers, there appears to be no definitive way to confirm who they really are. Opinions are divided across the blogosphere, with names such as Tiago Bettencourt (formerly of Toranja), Margarida Pinto (of Coldfinger), Samuel Úria, and B Fachada being suggested. In March 2013, the song “Veio a Maria Clementina” was performed by Samuel Úria and Tiago Bettencourt during a concert at the Coliseu dos Recreios, leading many to believe that the two artists are indeed part of the band’s lineup.
Members
- Raquel Menina – vocals
- Juca Pavico – guitar, piano, and vocals
- Enrique Mita – banjo, bass, and backing vocals
- Manuel de Malta – drums, theremin, arrangements, and more
Discography
EP
Maria Clementina (2010)
- “Veio a Maria Clementina”
- “Vou Ser Alguém”
- “Um Beijo Só”
- “Sementes da Saudade”
Singles
- “Veio a Maria Clementina” (June 2010)
