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

The Girl From IpanemaAstrud Gilberto and Stan Getz

Astrud Gilberto and Stan Getz – The Girl From Ipanema (1964) LIVE

Known as an iconic song symbolizing the fusion of bossa nova and jazz, this piece was released in March 1964 through the collaboration of Astrud Gilberto and Stan Getz.

Gilberto, a Brazilian singer, delivers a gentle vocal performance that blends exquisitely with the flowing saxophone playing of the American musician Getz, portraying a wistful longing for a beautiful girl walking along the beach at Ipanema.

Included on the album Getz/Gilberto, it achieved international success, including winning a Grammy Award.

Its soothing rhythm and elegant melody make it a perfect choice for relaxation or when you want to feel calm.

Chega de SaudadesAntônio Carlos Jobim

Chega De Saudade

This masterpiece is indispensable when talking about the history of bossa nova.

Composed by Brazil’s Antônio Carlos Jobim and released in 1958, it encapsulates the allure of bossa nova, characterized by a rhythmic, melodic flow and a sophisticated musicality that incorporates elements of jazz.

The lyrics portray a deep sense of saudade—Brazil’s uniquely wistful emotion born of heartbreak.

They carry lingering feelings for a former lover and the hope that they might return.

With this song, Jobim laid the foundation of bossa nova and helped bring Brazilian music to the world.

Its comfortable rhythm and wistful melody make it a track you’ll want to savor on a calm evening.

Soul Bossa NovaQuincy Jones

Quincy Jones – SOUL BOSSA NOVA

Even if you don’t know the title of this track, many people will recognize its striking melody and feel like they’ve heard it somewhere.

Released in January 1962 by the American musician Quincy Jones, this masterpiece brings out the full charm of bossa nova while skillfully blending elements of jazz and Latin music.

It was later used as the theme song for the Austin Powers film series, making it widely known to a new generation.

Its brisk rhythm and catchy melody make it a great recommendation for any music fan seeking a fun, feel-good vibe.

DesafinadoJoao Gilberto & Tom Jobim

Desafinado

Bossa nova is a music genre created in the 1950s by young musicians in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

It is said to be jazz performance infused with the complex rhythms of samba, and it is one of the most beloved music genres in Brazil.

Desafinado was composed by Tom Jobim, known as a founder of bossa nova, and performed by João Gilberto, the guitarist revered as the “God of Bossa Nova.” It’s a luxurious collaboration between two true legends—a magnificent performance that feels like the very origin of bossa nova.

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Mas Que Nada (feat. Black Eyed Peas)Sergio Mendes

Sergio Mendes feat. Black Eyed Peas – Mas Que Nada

This track breathes a fresh hip-hop vibe into Brazil’s traditional samba rhythm.

Born from a collaboration between Sérgio Mendes and the Black Eyed Peas, it was released in January 2006 and captivated listeners around the world.

Its lively beat and optimistic lyrics brighten the listener’s mood and make you want to move your body.

It’s perfect for parties or anytime you want to lift your spirits, and it’s a wonderful work that modernizes the charm of bossa nova.

CorCovadoAntônio Carlos Jobim

Corcovado (Remastered)

A piece so famous it stands as a monument of bossa nova, marked by its elegant guitar tones and gentle melody.

Composed in 1960 by Brazilian composer Antônio Carlos Jobim, who was inspired by the beautiful nightscape of Rio de Janeiro.

Its lyrics, depicting happy moments spent with a loved one on a quiet night, have resonated with many.

Since its release in August 1963, it has been covered by numerous artists, including jazz greats Miles Davis and Frank Sinatra, and has been frequently featured in films and television.

A heartwarming song perfect for leisurely listening on a calm night—highly recommended not only for bossa nova fans but also for anyone who enjoys quiet music.

Tomma NovaNEW!Tomatomat

[MV] 토마토맛 (Tomatomat) – 토마노바 (Tomma Nova) / Official Music Video

Tomatomat is a three-piece unit drawing attention in Korea’s indie scene.

Suun, Quin, and Nayeon come together with a unique concept of blending their individual personalities like tomato dishes.

Their debut work, released in July 2025, is Tomma Nova.

It’s a track that skillfully weaves the breezy rhythms and airy feel characteristic of bossa nova into an electronic sound palette.

The lyrics depict summer ripening red and promises with friends, leaving a curious aftertaste where cuteness and melancholy coexist.

This pleasant fusion of electronic and Latin elements is recommended for those who want to relax on a summer evening or are looking for pop with a distinctive twist.