Dino Meira

**Dino Meira** (1940–1993) was a Portuguese pop and Latin-influenced singer born in Espinho, Portugal, who gained popularity among Portuguese-speaking communities worldwide. Known for his emotive lyrics and nostalgic themes tied to emigration and cultural identity, he found a strong following in North America, where he even hosted a television program for the diaspora. His music blended rhythmic pop with Portuguese folk elements, yielding hits like *“Zum Zum Zum”* and *“Negro Destino”*, released under Polygram in the 1980s. Meira recorded albums like *“Obrigado América do Norte”* (1980) and *“Uma Vez Na Vida”* (1992), often celebrating emigrant experiences, and briefly appeared in the film *“Crime In Newark”*.

Active until his death in 1993, Meira’s discography includes both sentimental ballads (*“Saudades”*) and lively anthems (*“Viva, Emigrante Viva”*), cementing his legacy as a voice for Portugal’s emigrant communities. Recent compilations like *“Grandes Êxitos De Dino Meira”* and *“A Arte E A Música De Dino Meira”* continue to highlight his enduring appeal.

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