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Carolina Deslandes on music, activism, and Portugal's revolutionary spirit

From Ídolos to social change, she turns songwriting into a weapon for justice. Discover why her voice resonates beyond the stage—and into Portugal's future.

The image shows a poster with a collage of photos of Portugal, featuring buildings, trees, water, a...
The image shows a poster with a collage of photos of Portugal, featuring buildings, trees, water, a bridge, a tower, a statue, and the sky. The poster also has text written on it, likely describing the various attractions and activities available in the country.

Carolina Deslandes on music, activism, and Portugal's revolutionary spirit

Portuguese singer and writer Carolina Deslandes has spoken openly about her journey through music, activism, and personal challenges. Known for her role in the 2005 casting show Ídolos, she now sees writing as both a creative outlet and a tool for addressing social issues like gender equality and violence against women.

Her reflections tie deeply to Portugal's evolving culture and the legacy of the April 25th Revolution, which she often references in her civic work.

Deslandes describes songwriting as more than an art—it's a physical need, woven into every stage of her life. She recalls the strain of balancing creativity with family demands, admitting that exhaustion once forced her to reassess her priorities.

Her time on Ídolos marked the start of a public career, but she now focuses on broader debates. Freedom, she argues, requires responsibility, especially in a country where fundamental rights are still contested. She criticises attempts to reverse progress, particularly for women, and draws strength from Portugal's history of reinvention.

Despite challenges, she remains hopeful. The country's generosity and its ability to adapt give her confidence in its future.

Deslandes continues to use her voice—both in music and activism—to push for change. Her work reflects a belief in Portugal's capacity to evolve while honouring its revolutionary past. For her, writing and speaking out are not just choices but essential acts of freedom.

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