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

i like to wear soft clothing (cause it makes me feel like i’m rough in comparison)NEW!Bill Wurtz

i like to wear soft clothing (cause it makes me feel like i’m rough in comparison)

It’s a superb piece of jazz-pop where the pleasant timbre of the keys melts into a light, buoyant rhythm.

The track is by Bill Hartz, an American multi-creator with a cult following online, released in August 2022.

Isn’t the sound—blending elements of smooth jazz and funk—just impossibly stylish? From writing and composing to performance and video production, he handles it all himself—pure DIY spirit, and it shows.

The lyrics are captivating too, with a paradoxical, unique perspective: by donning soft clothing, he actually becomes more aware of his own rough edges.

Unpredictable key changes and catchy melodies will hook you after just one listen.

Perfect for relaxation, and also for when you want to drift into a slightly surreal mood.

The animated music video on YouTube is a must-see as well.

El patoNEW!Natalia y La Forquetina

Natalia y La Forquetina PATO Video Oficial HD 1080P MEJOR CALIDAD (Lafourcade)

Natalia y La Forquetina, a band active in the mid-2000s, was a skilled unit led by Mexican songstress Natalia Lafourcade.

This track, included on the Latin Grammy-winning album Casa, is a playful cover of a bossa nova standard.

It depicts ducks, cats, and dogs joyfully making their sounds over a lively rhythm.

Natalia’s vocals overflow with a charming quality that’s sure to bring a smile.

Although it’s an album track released in August 2005, it originally relates to the 2004 Mexican film Temporada de patos.

It’s perfect for a holiday morning or a relaxing moment—give it a listen if you’re looking to brighten your mood!

Something BigNEW!Burt Bacharach

Burt Bacharach – Something Big

The renowned master who led the world of 20th-century popular music, Burt Bacharach—no introduction needed.

This piece is the opening number from his acclaimed 1973 album “Living Together.” While it’s generally categorized as easy listening, its complex chord progressions and melodies—rooted in classical and jazz training—have a beautiful resonance reminiscent of bossa nova.

It’s a self-cover of a song originally released by Mark Lindsay in 1971, co-produced here with Phil Ramone.

With its elegant strings and delicate arrangement, this track is perfect for those who want to immerse themselves in quality music on a leisurely afternoon.

TúNEW!Maye

maye – Tú (Official Music Video)

Maia, a singer-songwriter born in Venezuela and raised in Miami, is a thoroughbred artist—the daughter of Latin Grammy-winning composer Fernando Osorio—who has gained popularity with a sound that fuses indie pop with styles like bolero.

This track, where her velvety, airy vocals blend with bossa nova–tinged, gentle guitar tones, is her second single, released in September 2019.

It became a talking point when it was selected for former U.S.

President Barack Obama’s 2020 summer playlist—a true classic.

Its retro, nostalgic vibe adds a touch of color to a leisurely weekend afternoon or a relaxing evening.

A must-check example of next-generation Latin pop!

Fall at the Same TimeNEW!aldn

aldn – fall at the same time (official music video)

Alden, a producer and singer from Reston, Virginia, emerged from the hyperpop scene.

Armed with an internet-born, razor-sharp sensibility, he’s an artist drawing attention with a boundary-crossing, distinctive musical style.

The track introduced here is a single released in September 2022, an essential work that forms the narrative core of the later EP, “post spring self destruction.” Beginning with the gentle tones of an acoustic guitar and gradually accelerating as drums layer in, its structure beautifully mirrors the lyrics’ depiction of emotional synchronization and collapse within a romantic relationship.

With a groove that hints at bossa nova influences, a sound that cherishes languid vocals and the resonance of live instruments evokes a contemporary saudade.

It’s the perfect song for a quiet night alone, when you want to sink into bittersweet feelings.

Quem Te Viu, Quem Te VêNEW!Nara Leão

Quem Te Viu, Quem Te Vê

Nara Leão, beloved as the muse of bossa nova, passed away prematurely in 1989 at the young age of 47.

She was a great singer who not only performed bossa nova but also sang samba and songs with social messages, contributing to the development of MPB.

Here I’ll introduce the piece that opens her classic 1967 album “Vento de Maio.” In fact, this song was written and composed by the renowned musician Chico Buarque; it’s a highly narrative samba that portrays both the splendor of Carnival and the loneliness behind it.

It’s a masterful performance born from the deep trust between the two—Chico even handled the back cover of the album—and the sophisticated sound, with arrangements by the likes of Dori Caymmi, is also captivating.

It has become a standard covered by many singers, and it’s a recommended track for anyone who wants to savor a richly expressive samba.

From The StartLaufey

Laufey – From The Start (Official Music Video)

Rayeve’s captivating sound blends jazz and classical in a modern way.

The Icelandic artist’s song released in May 2023 is a gem of a love song that portrays the ache of unrequited love.

It expresses the turmoil of a heart wavering between friendship and romance through delicate vocals and melody.

The track gained popularity on TikTok, resonating with many who related it to their own experiences.

Scheduled to be included on the album “Bewitched,” set for release in September, the song also charms with a calm atmosphere that evokes bossa nova.

It’s a perfect track for anyone looking to soothe the pain of heartbreak.