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

Carta ao Tom 74Toquinho

Toquinho – Carta ao Tom 74

In the 1950s, when bossa nova was born, Toquinho—a Brazilian singer and guitarist known for releasing numerous songs in collaboration with lyricist Vinicius de Moraes, who helped bring this samba-derived genre to worldwide fame—emerged on the scene.

His sweet vocals pair beautifully with Brazil’s traditional rhythms.

This song, Carta ao Tom 74 (Letter to Tom), is also a collaboration with Vinicius de Moraes, and it’s a bossa nova number whose flowing melody is simply enchanting.

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CorcovadoKoizumi Niro

Nilo Koizumi Corcovado Bossa Nova

Corcovado is the name of a hill in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

The piece was composed by Carlos Jobim, one of the founders of bossa nova.

Koizumi’s singing is gentle and romantic, offering yet another flavor of bossa nova.

The Girl from IpanemaJoão Gilberto

Garota de Ipanema – Joao Gilberto (testo/letras)

João Gilberto, together with Antônio Carlos Jobim, was one of the creators of bossa nova and was known as the “God of Bossa Nova.” His calm singing voice, gently flowing with the guitar, brings a comforting sense of relief that seems to wash away accumulated fatigue.

JinjiSYLVIA TELLES

Sylvia Telles – Dindi (1959)

Composed by Antônio Carlos Jobim, this piece is, as the title “Dindi” (Silvia’s nickname) suggests, her theme song.

She had been active even before bossa nova became a worldwide hit, but tragically died in an accident at the young age of 32.

Chega de saudadeJoão Gilberto

Chega de Saudade

The piece released in April 1959 by João Gilberto from Brazil is known as a masterpiece that laid the foundation of bossa nova.

Its charm lies in a tender, conversational singing voice that conveys a bittersweet longing for a lover, paired with delicate guitar playing.

Composed by Antônio Carlos Jobim and Vinícius de Moraes, the work captivated listeners around the world with an innovative musicality that fused elements of jazz into samba.

The lyrics, expressing a wish to be reunited with a lover, are sure to resonate with many.

Even within its relaxed atmosphere, you can feel the distinctive rhythmic sense of Brazilian music.

Deixa pra Lá (feat. Teresa Cristina)BossaCucaNova

Deixa pra Lá (feat. Teresa Cristina)

Hailing from Brazil, Bossa Cucanova captivates with a unique style that fuses traditional bossa nova and contemporary electronica.

Released in 2012, this work features Brazilian songstress Teresa Cristina, blending rhythmic drive with melodically rich elements.

As the title suggests, it conveys a relaxed feeling of release from everyday stress, with a gentle atmosphere that resonates pleasantly.

While honoring bossa nova’s tradition, its modern arrangements attract a new audience.

A perfect track for unwinding or savoring the spirit of Brazil.

Vim Da BahiaQuarteto em Cy

Quarteto Em Cy & Tamba Trio – Vim Da Bahia

Quarteto em Cy, famous as four sisters and a four-voice chorus group.

This track, included on an album where the Tamba Trio provides the performance, was composed by Gilberto Gil.

The lyrics sing of love and pride for the state of Bahia, and the women are in fact from that region.