Adriano Santos is a Cape Verdean saxophonist and trumpeter recognized for his dedication to advancing instrumental music in the context of Cape Verdean musical tradition, alongside his efforts in preserving and revitalizing the archipelago's musical heritage within the diaspora.

Born in 1962 in São Vicente, he immigrated to the United States in 1989, establishing himself in New England, where he cultivated a notable career as an instrumentalist, performer, and musical collaborator. Throughout this period, he engaged in various projects related to current Cape Verdean music. In 2021, he returned to his native country, where he is actively engaged in enhancing the nation’s artistic and cultural milieu.

His discographic journey encompasses Nôs Tradiçom, recorded with the ensemble Os Kings (1982); the album Reencontro, created in collaboration with his brother Nhela Santos (1995); Convivença – Reencontro II (1997), also in partnership with Nhela Santos; Formidável – Reencontro III, produced by Somuzica (2004); and the latest CD Saxophonias’s, released under the Hello Cabo Verde label (2014).
During his career, Adriano Santos has engaged in further recording projects, particularly Cabo Love (1997) and F’licidade II, produced by Neves Travel & Tours and released in 2000.
The musician has consistently engaged in cultural concerts, recording sessions, and community musical initiatives, significantly enhancing cultural connections between Cape Verde and its diaspora, while also advancing Cape Verdean music internationally.