About me
Luiz Barros, professionally known as Lulas, is a Brazilian bassist based in Toronto, working as a professional sideman in live performances, studio sessions, and music projects in Canada and internationally. A left-handed, self-taught musician, he began his musical journey at the age of 15 playing acoustic and electric guitar, initially adapting a right-handed instrument—an early experience that helped shape his adaptability and practical approach to music.
His musical education was built through hands-on experience, learning from magazines, fellow musicians, and extensive live performance. Early in his career, he became a member of the Brazilian band NNT (Nem Nome Tem), a project focused on Brazilian music from the 1950s, 60s, and 70s, as well as original compositions. With NNT, Luiz had songs played on radio stations and appeared on popular television programs in the early 2000s, reinforcing his decision to pursue music professionally.
After the band ended in 2003, his motivation to continue in music only grew stronger. During this period, he transitioned to electric bass, initially playing alongside former members of NNT, where he discovered a deep connection with the instrument. He later joined the band Via Phoenix, performing at bars, pubs, weddings, graduations, and private events—an important phase that strengthened his stage experience, versatility, and professional discipline.
In 2010, Luiz recorded a live studio DVD as the bassist for Brazilian artist Rick Alves. The project featured Brazilian pop-rock covers as well as original material and was recorded live in a professional studio environment, with full video and high-quality audio production. This experience further expanded his studio background and reinforced his ability to perform accurately and consistently in professional recording settings.
Over the years, Lulas established himself as a reliable sideman, performing with multiple bands, wedding bands, Brazilian country (sertanejo) artists, and corporate event projects. These experiences provided him with a solid understanding of the music industry and strengthened his professional standards—from rehearsal preparation and repertoire accuracy to stage behavior and teamwork.
In 2016, at a strong point in his career in Brazil, Luiz and his family decided to move to Canada, beginning a new chapter in his professional life. After a challenging adaptation period, he returned to active performance in 2022, rebuilding his musical network in Toronto. Since then, he has joined a well-known Brazilian tribute band in the city and successfully passed auditions for a Canadian country band, where he currently works as a sideman.
Today, Luiz Barros continues to work as a professional bassist in Toronto, navigating different musical styles, cultures, and professional environments with a consistent mindset: arrive prepared, respect the project, and serve the music with reliability and musical sensitivity.
