HeyRicooo

Remember this name - it’s definitely one to watch. Today we’re talking with HeyRicooo, a young artist with a unique sound who’s been making waves in the underground scene. Born in Angola, his music carries a distinct sauce and a unique identity that sets him apart from what’s typically coming out of the scene here - bringing a fresh, authentic perspective that’s hard to ignore.

Tell us about yourself - who is HeyRicooo?

I’m HeyRicooo, I’m 18 years old. I was born in Luanda but I’m currently based in Lisbon, and I see myself as a very versatile individual.

You were born in Angola - what was it like growing up there? What memories have stayed with you to this day?

My childhood in Angola was a bit different from the usual. Some of the memories I still carry with me are spending time on my dad’s MacBook playing around on GarageBand, and being at my grandmother’s house.

At what age did you come to Portugal, and what was the process of adapting like?

It was quite challenging, especially with certain customs, traditions, and the “language,” specifically the slang. But I see it more as a lesson - even being far from home, I can still adapt while staying true to myself.

Your pride in being Angolan really shines through. What does it mean to you, both in your personal life and in your art?

I’m very proud to be Angolan because it’s where I was born and spent my childhood. I’m not defined only by that, but musically, Angola is full of talent, especially in the social neighborhoods. I want to be someone who acts as a voice for these hidden talents and gives exposure to people who otherwise wouldn’t have it.

When did music first enter your life?

Music has always been a part of my life, but things changed when I started exploring the internet and discovering different kinds of music. That’s where I found the artists who inspire me, and where I discovered electronic music and other subgenres of rap.

Your music has a strong connection to Angolan sounds. How do your roots influence your sound?

It’s because of Kuduro. Kuduro is a unique and instantly recognizable music style that originated in Angola, and it even has its own subgenres. It’s the only type of music that, when it plays at a party, it’s impossible for people not to enjoy it.

You have a very distinctive sound that stands out in the Portuguese scene. What are your main musical influences, and where does that unique identity come from?

My main musical influences are Bruno M, Nagrelha, Kanye, and Young Thug. I’ve been listening to them since I was around 9 or 10, so they’ve had a huge impact on me both as a person and on my sound.

We can see that your visual style is also a key part of your identity. How does aesthetics play into your work? And is your connection to portuguese brands something intentional?

I love minimalism and simplicity, but at the same time, I also love colors and maximalism. My visuals are very simple, from the videos to the clothing, but my music carries the complexity I want. It was very spontaneous that two opportunities came up - YBC and Rugrats - two completely different brands, one more colorful than the other, and that really connects with both my aesthetic and my music.

Tell us about JunkieMoney - how did the movement start, and what does it mean to you?

JunkieMoney wasn’t the first name we had, but it came about because of G6Revy and Bloodyfranco. Honestly, JMoney isn’t just a “team” - it’s a family. A lot of people think JMoney has around six members, but we actually have 26 in the group. We also have affiliates, and we know exactly who’s part of it.

You took part in Victory Lap in Portugal, an important moment for the culture. What was it like to experience that?

It was a mind-blowing experience. Half of the people there I already knew or had talked to, but it was really important because it showcased the diversity of Lusophone music and showed that it can be much more than people imagine. It changed my life - every week there are people asking for photos or recognizing me, and I find that pretty funny.

How do you see the underground scene in Portugal right now?

Honestly, outside of JunkieMoney, I don’t see much progress - not just musically, but also in terms of certain attitudes in the underground scene. Some people act like they’re bigger than everyone else. Like, bro, just because you performed for about 20 people, seven of whom were your friends, it doesn’t mean you should have a massive ego. The unity that used to exist isn’t there anymore, and that really slows things down. But honestly, it’s too late.

Do you think 2026 could be a turning point for the underground scene in Portugal?

Maybe 2026, but 2027 is 100% the year everything will change. With the people I have around me, I truly believe it, and I have high hopes that the crew is going to rise.

It’s only April, and you’ve already dropped three singles - what can we expect from the rest of your year?

This year, I’m dropping three albums - EXODUS, EXODUS 2.0, and Kuduro Mafia. Each project will be a major milestone for my career and for the Lusophone music scene, where I aim to set a new standard in the industry.

A positive message for our community :)

Keep your head up - all negativity is temporary. Don’t wait for permission. Create. And for those just starting out: use the little you have as if it’s everything.