A roundup of great masterpieces and popular songs of Brazilian music

Raça NegraOlodum

Olodum – Raça Negra

One reason Salvador has such a distinct culture within Brazil is precisely because many of its people are descendants of those with roots in Africa.

Taking pride in these roots, Olodum’s performances—sung with powerful vigor—have a blood-stirring intensity.

Bugio NovoOs Serranos

Bugio Novo

Os Serranos represent the music of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil’s southernmost state, whose people are known as Gaúchos.

The region has many European immigrants, and the recently popular gaucho pants originate from the wide trousers favored by these cattle herders.

Their music is characterized by a cheerful accordion.

E VoceTribalistas

Tribalistas – E Voce

Tribalistas, who released only one album and were active for just a single year.

It’s a curious group that arose organically when Marisa Monte contributed to an Arnaldo Antunes album produced in part by Carlinhos Brown.

Since it’s a gathering of three individually talented artists, it makes for a compelling listen.

MulheresMartinho da Vila

Martinho da Vila – Mulheres

This song, sung by Martinho da Vila, a grand master of the samba world, to one special woman, is sure to make any woman’s heart swell.

He’s met many women before, but for a man who has finally found the one person he truly needs, this is the perfect song to give her.

Papel MachêJoão Bosco

Papel Machê-João Bosco

Comical and romantic, with a lovely bashful smile, João Bosco.

The title Papel Machê means papier-mâché.

He likens himself to a toy made of papier-mâché, portraying an inner world of delicacy and simplicity—something that deserves to be handled with care and heartfelt attention.

ClareanaJoyce Moreno

Clareana, Joyce Moreno.mpg

Released in 1980, this is a work by the Brazilian acoustic group Joyce.

Hailing from Rio de Janeiro and known as the Queen of MPB (Brazilian Popular Music), Joyce’s songs feature a clear, cool voice and are referred to as part of the second generation of bossa nova.

BerimbauVinícius de Moraes & Toquinho

Berimbau – Vinícius de Moraes & Toquinho(ORIGINAL VERSION)

Capoeira is a Brazilian martial art that traces its origins to the Black slaves brought from Africa long ago.

At the heart of its accompaniment is the berimbau, which is also the title of this piece.

Created so as not to arouse the suspicion of white overseers, this martial art appears at first glance to be a dance, and this song conveys its indomitable spirit.