The sertanejo duo Hugo & Guilherme have opened up about the deeply personal journey behind their viral track 'Mal Feito,' a collaboration with the late Marília Mendonça. The song, which became the most-streamed track on Spotify in 2022, carries a heavy emotional weight for the artists, representing a final gift from the iconic singer.
The recording was completed in September 2021 during their 'No Pelo 360' festival in Goiânia. Tragically, Marília Mendonça passed away in a plane crash just two months later in November 2021. Her death left the duo in a state of profound grief and uncertainty about the future of the track.
For months, Hugo and Guilherme wrestled with the decision of whether to release the song. They feared it might seem insensitive or opportunistic in the wake of such a national tragedy. The duo spent considerable time deliberating, unsure if the public release was the right move.
The breakthrough came after they consulted directly with Marília Mendonça's family. The family gave their full support and blessing for the release, confirming it was a project Marília herself had been passionate about. This support was crucial in helping the artists move forward.
The track was officially released on January 14, 2022, as the second single from their live DVD 'Próximo Passo.' The decision proved to be a massive success, resonating with millions of fans and becoming a defining hit of the year.
Hugo describes the song as a 'present that Marília left for us.' He admits that even now, watching the music video can bring him to tears. The duo feels the track keeps her spirit alive, and they make a point to thank her and say a prayer every time they perform it live.
The 'No Pelo 360' festival itself has an interesting origin story. The duo created the event after facing rejection from other festivals early in their career. Their innovative 360-degree stage format and marathon shows quickly won over audiences, inspiring a wave of similar events across the country.
After a brief pause in 2025, the festival returned in 2026, starting in Goiânia on April 18. The project continues to expand, now touring multiple cities, solidifying Hugo & Guilherme's status as innovators in the sertanejo scene. Based on reporting from g1.