Ney Matogrosso
- Origin
- Bela Vista, MS
- Years active
- 1971
- Genres
- MPB, rock, samba, pop, bolero, fado, tango
- Instruments
- vocals
Biography
Ney Matogrosso is a legendary Brazilian singer, dancer, and actor, widely regarded as one of the most versatile and powerful voices in the history of Brazilian music. Born in Mato Grosso do Sul, he began his career in the early 1970s as the lead singer of the glam-rock group Secos & Molhados. His use of heavy makeup, exotic costumes, and an androgynous stage persona challenged the conservative norms of the Brazilian military dictatorship, making him a symbol of artistic rebellion and freedom. During this period, he immortalized songs like 'Sangue Latino' and 'Rosa de Hiroshima.'\n\nStarting his solo career in 1975 with the album 'Água do Céu - Pássaro,' Matogrosso transitioned from the theatrical rock of his early years to a sophisticated repertoire of MPB (Música Popular Brasileira). Throughout the decades, he has interpreted the works of legendary composers such as Chico Buarque, Cartola, and Tom Jobim. His 1981 hit 'Homem com H' became a massive commercial success, showcasing his ability to blend regional forró rhythms with his unique performative style. His career is marked by a constant evolution of image, moving from elaborate feathered costumes to more sober, yet equally magnetic, stage presences.\n\nBeyond his vocal talent, Matogrosso is a respected lighting designer and director, having worked on iconic shows for artists like Cazuza and Simone. He has also ventured into cinema, both as an actor and the subject of documentaries and biopics. Known for his fierce independence and refusal to be labeled by his sexuality, he remains an active and influential figure in the Brazilian cultural landscape, recently collaborating with contemporary artists and continuing to tour with high-energy performances like 'Bloco na Rua.'