Labia is a Rock band from Lisbon, Portugal fronted by singer-songwriter Joao Cupertino.

Joao was musical early in his teens, started singing at 10, picking up the bass guitar at 13, then moving on to guitar and later learning some basic drumming and keyboards.

He loved the freedom of being able to create arrange and produce a complete song by himself and not depending on any musician to lay down the tracks. He soon discovered that his passion was not playing an instrument, his passion lied in composing songs, the instruments themselves were mere tools to achieve that: “All the time I have is dedicated to creating songs, I do not excel in any instrument and frankly I lack the discipline needed for it, but my weapon of choice is the definitely the guitar. I love guitars not only for their expressiveness but also as aesthetically beautiful objects” Joao says.

An assumed guitar gear hoarder, his songs are melodic. filled with great guitar riffs and catchy hooks and the lyrics unpretentious and witty. His love for Classic Rock and gospel inspired backing vocals led to the sound of the band with Joana Mello’s great presence and beautiful voice sweetening the more edgy guitar filled Rock sound of the quintet. 

On stage, together with friends Paulo Nunes on guitar, Zumbi on drums and Antonio Borges on bass, the band’s captivating high-energy performances transport the audience to a time where Rock’n’Roll was king and ruled the world! Joao’s energetic presence has earned him the nickname “Wildman”: “We leave it all on stage, it is our natural habitat”.

Paulo, Zumbi and Antonio were Metal fans in their youth and played with several local Metal bands, these days they are toning it down a notch …or two… João has fronted several Pop/Rock bands over the years but later developed an appetite for harder Rock and so Labia was born.

João is also a photographer and video director and is responsible for the band’s image.

By the way, in case you are wondering about the band’s name… the word Labia also means the ability to seduce or convince a person with words…