Lisbon: The Angolan Embassy in Portugal has called on new generations to find inspiration in the example of musician and saxophonist Ant³nio Manuel Fernandes 'Nanutu', who died on Friday in Lisbon, Portugal, from illness, at the age of 68. In a note of condolences addressed to the family, the diplomatic representation considers that the appeal for inspiration from Nanutu aims to further elevate Angolan culture, thus paying the tribute it deserves. The Angolan Diplomatic Mission expresses its deepest condolences to the bereaved family and the Ministry of Culture.
According to Angola Press News Agency, in reaction to the artist's death, writer Isabel Ferreira described Nanutu, whom she affectionately called "Nandinho", as an unparalleled figure in Angolan music, whose talent had the power to "warm her heart". Visibly distraught, the writer recalled the close personal and professional relationship she had with the artist, emphasizing that they shared a similar life story, as both had grown up away from their parents, since Nanutu was raised in the Casa Pia orphanage.
The writer also took the opportunity to call for the creation of historical documents and written legacies about national artists, lamenting that society tends to value its references only after death. "The lyrics, when embodied in a book, remain alive," argued Isabel Ferreira, warning of the spiritual and aesthetic void that the departure of figures like Nanutu leaves in the country, due to the lack of records that allow young people to get to know their great creators.
For the musician and instrumentalist Betinho Feij³, Nanutu provides the new generation with versatile knowledge from diverse backgrounds, characterized by a fluid, focused experience dedicated to hard work, creative development, resilience, optimism, and faith. He describes him as a distinct figure worthy of remembrance who, due to his vast discography, qualifies him as one of the most recognized Angolan instrumentalists and composers in the world.
In turn, musician Klaudio Hoshai said he received the news with sadness, noting that Nanutu was one of the great names in Angolan music and that he had the privilege of working and learning with him. He recalled that Nanutu participated in and helped him produce his biggest single, "Pi³ Pi³," which became a hit in Angola and the diaspora over the past 10 years. "For me, this was a blessing and a true passing of legacy," he stated.
"Nanutu leaves a legacy of authenticity, love for culture, and musical excellence. His art will continue to inspire the new generation of Angolan musicians," he emphasized. A native of Sambizanga, in Luanda, where he was born in 1957, Nanutu leaves behind a huge and precious cultural legacy, recorded in several albums and recognized internationally through his performances around the world.
In September 2024, to mark his 50-year career, Nanutu launched the project "Nanuto Sax From Angola', which took him to perform in the USA, England, France, Belgium, the Netherlands, Germany, and Spain.
