Fado singer Mariza

NEW YORK With her platinum waves, disarming charm and big voice, Mariza has become the leading ambassador of Portuguese fado. The traditional style is played by a small acoustic group with the singer erupting with exquisite, gut-wrenching emotion. Born in Mozambique, Mariza was raised in Lisbon. After singing in various contemporary styles, she embraced fado has gone on to international fame singing it exclusively. She plays Carnegie Hall 8 p.m. Friday ($23-$76, call (212) 247-7800, and the Pollak Theater in Monmouth University's West Long Branch campus Saturday at 8 p.m. ($24-$36, call (732) 263-6889.

--Marty Lipp