In a music industry increasingly defined by its global connections, few musicians embody cross-cultural artistry as seamlessly as Leo Varella. Born in Brazil and now based in Los Angeles, Varella has carved out a career that spans over 45 countries across North America, South America, Europe, and Asia. His journey from local stages in Brazil to arena tours alongside internationally acclaimed artists is a testament to both his technical mastery and his relentless drive.
From Brazil to the World
Varella’s earliest musical experiences were rooted in Brazil’s rich and diverse sonic landscape — a tapestry of samba, bossa nova, rock, and pop that would later inform his versatility as a guitarist and producer. “Growing up in Brazil gave me a deep understanding of rhythm and harmony,” he says. “It also taught me that music can cross any border.”
That lesson became his guiding principle as his career expanded. In his early 20s, Varella began working as a session guitarist and producer, quickly building a reputation for his ability to adapt to any genre without losing his unique musical identity.
Touring with the Best
His adaptability and precision caught the attention of high-profile artists and tour directors. In recent years, Varella has performed on Kali Uchis’ North American arena tour, sharing the stage with one of contemporary R&B’s most visionary voices. He also toured internationally with Grandson, opening for the legendary Linkin Park, and delivered high-energy performances at major festivals across the United States and Canada.
One of his most visible appearances came when he participated in Doja Cat’s Coachella performance, a set that was widely covered by media and celebrated for its theatrical production and genre-blurring style.
Beyond live shows, Varella has been featured on nationally televised performances including The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, Jimmy Kimmel Live!, and NPR’s Tiny Desk Concerts, reaching millions of viewers and solidifying his profile as a world-class performer.
The Studio as a Second Stage
While touring remains a central part of his career, Varella’s creative reach extends deep into the recording studio. He has collaborated with Grammy-winning and Grammy-nominated producers and artists, contributing both as a guitarist and as a music producer. His production work reflects a modern sensibility — a blend of analog warmth and digital precision — and spans pop, R&B, rock, and Latin music.
This dual role as both a live performer and a studio creator has made Varella a sought-after collaborator in Los Angeles’ competitive music scene.
“In the studio, I’m always thinking like a performer,” he explains. “I want to capture that live energy, even when the audience is listening through headphones.”
A Career Without Borders
Varella’s career is notable not only for its high-profile collaborations but also for its truly global reach. He has performed in arenas, stadiums, and festivals across Europe, Asia, and South America, in addition to his extensive work in North America. This international trajectory is rare for any musician, and it underscores his ability to thrive in diverse cultural and musical environments.
His professional journey reflects a modern model for musicianship — one that is borderless, genre-fluid, and collaborative. In an era when the music business often demands that artists specialize, Varella has proven that versatility can be its own kind of signature.
The Next Chapter
Looking ahead, Varella is preparing for another North American arena tour while also dedicating significant time to his next solo project. The upcoming releases will see him stepping further into the role of producer, shaping a sound that reflects both his Brazilian roots and his global experiences.
With a network of strong industry connections and a proven track record in both performance and production, Varella is positioned to expand his influence even further. “I’ve always believed in music as a conversation,” he says. “Right now, I’m in a place where that conversation feels bigger than ever.”
An Artist Defined by Range and Precision
In an industry where technical skill and artistic voice must coexist, Leo Varella has mastered the balance. His guitar work is precise yet emotive, capable of commanding attention in a stadium yet equally at home in the intimate space of a recording booth. His production work carries the same meticulous touch, layering sounds with both precision and imagination.
Whether on stage before tens of thousands or behind the console shaping the next track, Varella’s artistry speaks to his deep understanding of music’s universal language.
For a musician whose career has already spanned continents, genres, and mediums, the next few years promise even greater reach. And if his past work is any indication, Leo Varella will continue to prove that great music knows no borders.
Follow him on his journey through his Instagram.
