Mercado Negro, a Portuguese reggae band from Lisbon, was founded in 1999 by Messias Santiago following his departure from Kussondulola. The group gained significant recognition with singles such as "Beija-flor" and "Oh Lua" in 2004, and later with "Levo-te comigo" and "Leoa Tigresa" in 2006. Their musical style was rooted in roots reggae but also incorporated influences from African music and other Portuguese-speaking countries. Themes of nature, peace, and human unity were also prevalent in their lyrics, alongside critiques of consumerism and political issues. Mercado Negro released their self-titled debut album Mercado Negro in 2004, followed by Aquecimento Global in 2006. Their third album, Conversas de Quintal, was released in 2010.
