Hely Rodrigues

Origin

Belo Horizonte, MG

Years active

1979–present

Genres

pop rock, progressive rock, MPB

Instruments

drums

Biography

Hely Rodrigues, born on March 7, 1948, in Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, is a prominent Brazilian drummer and a key member of the pop-rock band 14 Bis. His musical journey began at the age of thirteen when he started learning drums from a neighbor, an African musician named Ubadiê, who became his primary inspiration. Rodrigues's early exposure to music was also shaped by his parents' love for dancing and the frequent choro gatherings at home, where his siblings played guitar, cavaquinho, and harmonica. He pursued a technical education in electronics, a field that also interested other musicians from the Clube da Esquina movement.

Before joining 14 Bis in 1979 or 1980, Rodrigues was an active figure in the Minas Gerais music scene. He played with various local groups, including Os Turbulentos, where he met Flávio Venturini. He also had a stint with the Bahian group Bendegó, which accompanied Caetano Veloso. Rodrigues's discography includes significant contributions to albums by renowned Brazilian artists such as Beto Guedes, Lô Borges, and Caetano Veloso, showcasing his versatility and talent as a session musician.

Rodrigues has a deep appreciation for the Clube da Esquina movement, even though he was not a direct member. He has collaborated with many artists associated with the movement, including Beto Guedes and Lô Borges, and maintains close ties with musicians like Milton Nascimento. His long-standing role as the drummer for 14 Bis has cemented his place in Brazilian music history, with the band achieving significant success with hits like "Linda Juventude" and "Planeta Sonho." Rodrigues continues to be an active force in music, dedicating himself to his craft with rigorous daily practice.