[2026] A Guide to Bossa Nova: From Classic Standards to the Latest Hits!
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!
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[2026] A Guide to Bossa Nova: From Classics to the Latest Hits! (41–50)
Summer SambaMarcos Valle
A popular song by Brazil’s Marcos Valle is a breezy bossa nova that portrays a summer romance, perfectly blending Latin cheerfulness with an urban mood.
Featured on the album “Samba ’68,” this classic has been covered by many artists since its release in March 1968.
It has captured a wide audience, notably through its use in films like Austin Powers: The Spy Who Shagged Me and Click.
It’s recommended for anyone who wants to feel the joy of being in love or spend an elegant summer evening.
It’s a track packed with Marcos’s charm—be sure to give it a listen.
Upa NeguinhoZizi Possi
“Upa Neguinho,” pronounced in Japanese as Upa Negínio, is one of the defining songs of Brazilian popular music from the 1960s.
It’s a signature piece by bossa nova musician Edu Lobo and is also well known for having many cover versions.
Its challenging samba rhythms, slightly mysterious mood, and elusive yet catchy melody may resonate with listeners who enjoy psychedelic or alternative music.
Participating in his work is the bossa nova singer Zizi Possi.
RioRoberto Menescal
Roberto Menescal, active since the early days of bossa nova, is one of the figures who helped shape the genre.
He is known both as an outstanding songwriter and for producing numerous talented musicians.
This song is a masterpiece that portrays Rio as a city in harmonious balance with nature, its people, and its culture.
CorcovadoStan Getz
The album that played an especially major role in bringing bossa nova to America and then to the world was Getz/Gilberto, which includes this track.
The refined yet warm tenor saxophone provides a wonderful accent.
DesafinadoAntônio Carlos Jobim
Considering his exceptional musicality, originality, and the influence he later had across genres, it’s no exaggeration to say that Jobim is the greatest figure in bossa nova.
Although it’s a classic covered by a great many musicians, this is the version sung by the man himself.
Lollipops And RosesWalter Wanderley
Walter Wanderley was a musician who expressed bossa nova and other Brazilian music on the organ and rose to popularity in the 1960s.
In Japan, he is well known for his covers of Marcos Valle’s songs, but here he arranges Jack Jones’s whispering ballad in the Walter style.
TristeElis Regina
Elis Regina, a female bossa nova singer born in 1945, was an extremely popular vocalist in Brazil during the 1960s and 70s until her untimely death at the young age of 36.
She was active during the heyday of bossa nova and released many hit songs.
Her repertoire includes many lively, fast-tempo bossa nova tracks with a joyful groove, and I think they’re still pleasant and enjoyable to listen to today.
Several videos and photos remain, and her striking looks are also part of her appeal.
Her life was dramatic as well, and exploring her history is fascinating.