Popular bossa nova songs: a roundup of recommended classic BGM

Samba da BençãoSamba da Benção

Samba da Benção – Vinicius de Moraes

Also known in Japan by the title “Sanba no Shukufuku,” “Samba da Benção” is one of the most famous and important songs in bossa nova history.

With magnificent lyrics by Vinicius de Moraes—Brazil’s legendary poet who was also a singer and journalist—and music composed by Baden Powell, one of Brazil’s foremost guitarists and composers, the piece boldly fused Brazilian and African culture and roots into bossa nova, establishing the concept of “Afro-samba.” It’s a masterpiece imbued with Brazil’s history, so be sure to check it out.

Samba De Uma Nota SóTom Jobim

Samba De Uma Nota Só

This playful masterpiece was created by Brazilian maestro Antonio Carlos Jobim.

From its unique opening that repeats a single note, the melody blossoms into richness, like the beginning of a romance.

You can almost see the scene: the protagonist’s heart, once filled with only one thought, gradually overflowing with love.

The piece was introduced in 1960 on João Gilberto’s album “O Amor, o Sorriso e a Flor” and has been adored by many greats, including Frank Sinatra.

Its light, stylish vibe makes for a delightful soundtrack to a leisurely day.

I Took The LNEW!John Roseboro

I Took The L – John Roseboro (Official Music Video)

Singer-songwriter Jon Roseboro, who champions his own “post-bossa” style and is active in Brooklyn.

With a background that includes working in the funeral industry and living among the Amish, his music is defined by a butter-smooth vocal delivery.

This work is a gem that blends the gentle rhythms of bossa nova with an indie-folk sensibility.

The lyrics reference New York subway lines and place names, capturing the real emotions of city life.

Released as a single in October 2022, it was later included on the April 2023 album “Johnny.” The gentle guitar tones are soothing, making it perfect for a relaxing weekend afternoon or a quiet night.

Highly recommended for those who want to enjoy contemporary bossa nova.

Lover GirlNEW!Laufey

Laufey – Lover Girl (Official Music Video)

Icelandic singer-songwriter Laufey, who captivates audiences worldwide with her unique style that fuses jazz and classical music, remains fresh in our minds for her 2024 Grammy win.

This work, which also incorporates a bossa nova rhythm, overflows with sophisticated, mature charm.

It portrays the aching emotions of longing for someone dear who has grown distant, and its beautiful strings and piano melodies resonate deeply.

Released in June of the same year ahead of the album “A Matter of Time,” which came out in August 2025, this number also drew major attention for its music video shot in Japan.

Crafted by Petty Cash Production, the gentle sound will be the perfect companion for quiet nights spent alone.

When you want to feel a soothing, subtle sway, be sure to give it a listen.

Orange-coloured dayNEW!liana flores

liana flores – Orange-coloured day (visualizer)

Liana Flores, a London-born singer-songwriter with British and Brazilian roots, is an artist who has gained worldwide attention after breaking out on social media.

The track I’m introducing today, “Orange-coloured day,” appears on her much-anticipated debut album, “Flower of the soul,” released in June 2024.

While exploring themes of reverence for nature and transience, it features a breezy sound that blends the comfortable rhythms of ’60s jazz and bossa nova.

Produced by Noah Georgeson, the album also boasts beautiful chamber music-style string arrangements, evoking a sound that feels both nostalgic and fresh.

It’s a perfect example of next-generation bossa nova pop—ideal for relaxing on a sunny weekend afternoon.

le feu.NEW!aupinard

aupinard – le feu.

Have you heard of this new generation talent emerging from France? Opinal is a singer whose appeal lies in a style that fuses delicate bossa nova guitar with R&B rhythms.

Contrary to the “fire” in the title, this work doesn’t depict a blazing passion, but rather a relationship quietly fading away.

Its gentle fingerpicking and restrained vocals calmly convey the futility of parting, and it’s truly moving.

Included on the mixtape “pluie, montagnes et soleil,” released in January 2025, it also preceded a successful show at Paris’s prestigious Olympia in February, and the momentum shows no signs of stopping.

It’s an irresistible track for anyone who wants to sink into a melancholic mood on a quiet night or just after the rain.

Upa, NeguinhoElis Regina

Upa, Neguinho

Elis Regina, the legendary songstress born in Brazil.

Refusing to bow to social oppression, she delivers a powerful message—“Come on, let’s stand up”—sung over samba-jazz with punchy, unforgettable horns.

Her energetic voice and passionate rhythms fuse into a force that seems to fill listeners with boundless vitality.

The song originated as a number in the 1965 stage production Arena Conta Zumbi, and later became widely known through releases such as the live album Dois na Bossa No.

2.

Isn’t it the perfect anthem for times when you want to fire yourself up or need a push forward?