UHF
June 27
Formed in 1978 in Costa de Caparica, Almada, UHF are one of the most iconic, pioneering and long-standing bands in Portuguese rock history.
Formed in 1978 in Costa de Caparica, Almada, UHF are one of the most iconic, pioneering and long-standing bands in Portuguese rock history. Widely recognised as the driving force behind the Portuguese rock boom of the 1980s, they were instrumental in launching a musical movement that transformed the national music scene.
Led since the beginning by António Manuel Ribeiro — lead singer, guitarist and principal songwriter — UHF introduced a bold new rock language: lyrics in Portuguese, direct and socially conscious, paired with a raw sound influenced by punk rock and garage rock emerging from the UK and the US. The original lineup also included Renato Gomes, Carlos Peres and Américo Manuel.
Their breakthrough came in 1980 with Cavalos de Corrida, an instant anthem and one of the first major milestones of Portuguese rock music. The debut album À Flor da Pele (1981) followed, cementing their influence with classics such as Rua do Carmo and Sou Benfica. Albums like Persona Non Grata (1982) further established the band’s reputation, combining emotional intensity with sharp social commentary.
Across more than four decades, UHF have remained active, relevant and creatively restless, navigating lineup changes while preserving their identity. Albums such as Santa Loucura, 69 Stereo, Cheio, Porquê? and A Minha Geração reflect a career built on evolution, consistency and a deep connection with audiences.
Today, with António Manuel Ribeiro, António Côrte-Real, Nuno Correia, Ivan Cristiano and Miguel Urbano, UHF stand as the longest-running Portuguese rock band still in activity and a cornerstone of national music history. Their legacy paved the way for countless artists and continues to inspire generations, proving that rock in Portuguese is, above all, an enduring attitude.
Led since the beginning by António Manuel Ribeiro — lead singer, guitarist and principal songwriter — UHF introduced a bold new rock language: lyrics in Portuguese, direct and socially conscious, paired with a raw sound influenced by punk rock and garage rock emerging from the UK and the US. The original lineup also included Renato Gomes, Carlos Peres and Américo Manuel.
Their breakthrough came in 1980 with Cavalos de Corrida, an instant anthem and one of the first major milestones of Portuguese rock music. The debut album À Flor da Pele (1981) followed, cementing their influence with classics such as Rua do Carmo and Sou Benfica. Albums like Persona Non Grata (1982) further established the band’s reputation, combining emotional intensity with sharp social commentary.
Across more than four decades, UHF have remained active, relevant and creatively restless, navigating lineup changes while preserving their identity. Albums such as Santa Loucura, 69 Stereo, Cheio, Porquê? and A Minha Geração reflect a career built on evolution, consistency and a deep connection with audiences.
Today, with António Manuel Ribeiro, António Côrte-Real, Nuno Correia, Ivan Cristiano and Miguel Urbano, UHF stand as the longest-running Portuguese rock band still in activity and a cornerstone of national music history. Their legacy paved the way for countless artists and continues to inspire generations, proving that rock in Portuguese is, above all, an enduring attitude.
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