Music of a wonderful world

[2026] A Guide to Bossa Nova: From Classic Standards to the Latest Hits!

music writerKOH-1
Started working as a music writer as a side job while employed at a record shop, and for over 18 years I’ve contributed to music magazines, disc guide books, mooks, and web media. As a writer my main field is Western music, but as a listener for over 35 years, I always try to keep my curiosity alive with the motto “I like what I like.” I have experience playing in bands, where I was a bassist who handled songwriting and composition. Instruments I’ve played include bass, guitar, and piano. I began studying English in my mid-40s and continue to do so today.
Former vocal coach specializing in Western musicRyo
With the motto “Learn the basics and enjoy putting them into practice,” I worked as a vocal coach specializing in Western music. As a teen, I questioned the idea that “Western music equals English,” and started listening to songs from around the world. Today, I devour music from over 80 countries and run a personal blog introducing tracks. I often listen to genres like nuevo flamenco, bolero, canzone, and R&B. I’ll keep updating articles daily to find the one perfect song you’re looking for!

Bossa nova is one of the quintessential genres of Brazilian music, and it enjoys worldwide popularity—including here in Japan.

Our site already features an article compiling the leading bossa nova artists, but in this piece we’re introducing a curated selection of classic bossa nova tracks, spanning both past and present.

Alongside masterpieces from bossa nova’s golden era, we’ve also picked out various types of standout songs that incorporate bossa nova elements.

In recent years, new-generation artists like Ravei, whose music reflects influences from bossa nova, jazz, and even classical music, have gained global popularity.

Whether you’re new to bossa nova or looking to catch up on recent trends, be sure to check it out!

[2026] A Guide to Bossa Nova: From Classic Standards to the Latest Hits! (71–80)

Robo BoboCarlos Lyra

Lobo Bobo – Carlos Lyra

Robo BoboCarlos Lyra

With his calm singing voice and a level of guitar skill that, before his debut, had only been used to teach at a guitar school, Carlos Lyra has continued to deliver highly polished performances to this day.

This song is a classic, with delightful lyrics that cleverly overlap the Little Red Riding Hood fairy tale with a romantic relationship.

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Pela Luz dos Olhos TeusMiúcha, Antonio Carlos Jobim

Miúcha, Antonio Carlos Jobim – Pela Luz dos Olhos Teus (Pseudo Vídeo)

Pela Luz dos Olhos TeusMiúcha, Antonio Carlos Jobim

A supreme duet performed by Brazil’s bossa nova masters Antônio Carlos Jobim and Miúcha.

Breathing life into the poetry of Vinicius de Moraes, this work is a beautiful ballad that expresses the depth of love through the light in a lover’s eyes.

Included on the album “Miúcha & Antônio Carlos Jobim,” released in July 1977, it fully showcases the charm of bossa nova.

Beloved by many over the years, it’s a perfect track to set the mood for a pleasant evening, serving as ideal background music for time spent with someone special.

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Disse O Que Eu QueriaOs Cariocas

Os Cariocas – Disse o que eu queria (Áudio Oficial)

Disse O Que Eu QueriaOs Cariocas

Os Cariocas had been active as a vocal group long before bossa nova was born.

This track, with its excellent horn arrangement, gains an even more dazzling atmosphere thanks to the participation of Ismael Neto with the male group.

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Saudade da BahiaDorival Caymmi

DORIVAL CAYMMI ” SAUDADE DA BAHIA “

Saudade da BahiaDorival Caymmi

Its Japanese title is “Nostalgia for Bahia.” The composer, Dorival Caymmi, was from the state of Bahia and was known for his trademark striped shirts.

He had intended to keep this piece to himself, but ten years later, persuaded by friends, he finally released it.

It is a song that longs for his homeland.

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AmazonJoão Donato

João Donato – Amazon – The new sound of Brazil – 1965

AmazonJoão Donato

“Amazon” is a name that feels quintessentially Brazilian, and João Donato actually spent part of his childhood deep in the Amazon.

This work was released after he moved to the United States in the 1960s.

It’s only natural, then, that it carries a certain air of melancholy.

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How InsensitiveNova

Baila Nova – Insensatez (How Insensitive) – Antônio Carlos Jobim

How InsensitiveNova

It was included on Antonio Carlos Jobim’s final album.

I’ve heard the title carries a meaning like “foolish.” The high, husky, languid vocals lead you into a strangely beautiful world.

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mimosaAzymuth

Azymuth – Mimosa

mimosaAzymuth

A band from Rio de Janeiro, Brazil: Azymuth.

They’re famous for blending many genres with a base in Brazilian music.

Their track “Mimosa” features a uniquely distinctive groove that only they could create.

It’s a song with complex rhythms reminiscent of Brazilian fusion, yet topped with sexy, smooth vocals.

If you listen closely and focus on the rhythm, you’ll hear the song’s high level of craftsmanship and detail.

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Murakami Shinpei

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