INTERVIEW: Ney Matogrosso to offer rare acoustic show at Town Hall
Photo: Ney Matogrosso will perform Friday, April 21 at the Town Hall in New York City. Photo courtesy of Marcos Hermes / Provided by Cindy Byram PR with permission.
When Mariza, the famous fado singer from Portugal, was asked to program two nights at New York City’s Town Hall, she decided to include a particular musical influence to kick things off. On Friday, April 21, Ney Matogrosso, the legendary Brazilian singer, will offer a rare unplugged performance at the vaunted Midtown Manhattan venue. Mariza will collaborate with Matogrosso that evening — though the details are being kept secret at the moment — and then she’ll offer her own solo concert the following night, April 22, according to press notes.
For the unbeknownst, Matogrosso is an important figure in the history of Brazil’s diverse music scene, dating back to the 1970s and his days in the glam-rock band Secos e Molhados (Dry Goods and Wet Goods), according to his biography. Following that band’s success, he embarked on a successful solo career that saw him offering new tunes to his legions of fans and interpreting classic Brazilian music. He’s known for his high-pitched voice, known as a sopranino, and memorable costumes in the spirit of David Bowie (or maybe Bowie was in the spirit of Matogrosso).
At the Town Hall show, Matogrosso is expected to offer unplugged, acoustic versions of his mega-hits, plus renditions of songs by Caetano Veloso, Roberto Carlos and others, according to an official press release. The 81-year-old may not be bringing his makeup and costumes to the gig, but he’ll bring his musical excellence and then some (take a listen and look at the YouTube link below for his touching rendition of “Nada por mim.” He’ll be accompanied by pianist Leandro Braga.
Recently Hollywood Soapbox exchanged emails with Matogrosso about his highly anticipated New York show. Questions and answers have been slightly edited for style. Roger Costa offered translation.
What can fans expect from your piano-voice concert in New York City?
It will be a solo piano show exploring classics of Brazilian music and some of my well-known recordings and greatest hits.
Will there be any hints of your glam-rock past, or is this a more intimate concert?
It’s a very intimate show. I’ll be wearing a very elegant outfit, but nothing too colorful or extravagant.
In your younger years, did you consider yourself a rule breaker?
Yes! I have always been a ruler breaker. It all started when I was very little, at home, dealing with my military father. He had so many rules, I was breaking them as much as I could, and many times I’ve gotten beaten up because of that.
Do you miss your years with Secos e Molhados?
I guess I do not miss those special times with Secos e Molhados. It was great while it lasted, but I don’t miss the past.
How will Mariza be featured in the show?
We’ll be meeting in NYC and will discuss the details of her participation. I really didn’t figure it out yet.
Was the pandemic particularly difficult for you because you were away from your fans?
Well, the pandemic was difficult in general, not only for being away from the fans, but as a whole experience where I was unable to do what I love: to sing or perform.
Have you ever thought about retirement?
No, it has never crossed my mind. I will sing for as long as I can, for as long as I live. As long as I have strength, I’ll be singing!
By John Soltes / Publisher / John@HollywoodSoapbox.com
Ney Matogrosso will perform Friday, April 21 at the Town Hall in New York City. Click here for more information and tickets.
