Hugo Pena e Gabriel

Origin

Paraná, PR

Also known as

Hugo Pena Gabriel

Years active

2003–2011

Genres

sertanejo, sertanejo universitário

Instruments

acoustic guitar, vocals

Biography

Hugo Pena & Gabriel was an influential sertanejo duo formed in 2003 in Paraná, consisting of Hugo Casciano Pena (Hugo Pena) and Emerson Robson Campos (Gabriel). The duo is widely recognized as pioneers of "sertanejo universitário," a subgenre that gained popularity in the mid-2000s. Hugo Pena's career had a beginning marked by a severe car accident at age 16, which left him unable to walk for two years. During this recovery period, he learned to play the acoustic guitar and developed his passion for music. Gabriel, on the other hand, had shown an affinity for music since childhood, having formed a children's duo with a neighborhood friend.

The two met at a bar in Maringá, where Hugo Pena was performing and had to be replaced by Gabriel due to vocal problems. Their musical chemistry was immediate, leading to the formation of the duo. In 2004, they released the CD "Acústico," which included hits like "Do Brasil à Argentina" and "Pra lá de Bagdá." The duo quickly gained national prominence with songs such as "Mala Pronta," which was part of the soundtrack for Rede Globo's soap opera "A Favorita" in 2008, and "Robin Hood da Paixão." Other hits include "Parece Castigo," "Cigana," and "Morro de Saudades."

The duo released several albums and DVDs, such as "Ao Vivo em Colorado" (2006) and "Ao Vivo em Maringá" (2008), establishing themselves as one of the top names in sertanejo universitário, alongside duos like Jorge & Mateus and João Bosco & Vinícius. In 2010, they were nominated for the Multishow Award in the "Best Sertanejo Artist" category. In early 2011, the duo announced their breakup due to disagreements. Hugo Pena pursued a solo career, while Gabriel formed a new duo. In 2013, the duo returned to activities, releasing a new CD and resuming their career with shows. In 2023, they announced a comeback with the project "Os Pioneiros," celebrating 20 years of career.