A roundup of great masterpieces and popular songs of Brazilian music

CarolinaSeu Jorge

Seu Jorge – Carolina (Ao Vivo)

Seu Jorge, a Brazilian artist also known for his role in the film City of God, has won popularity with an urban sound that blends soul and funk atop a foundation of samba and MPB.

The song that opened up his career is a classic named after a woman.

In it, his hallmark deep, velvety baritone seems to dance as if expressing the thrill of love.

The sophisticated band sound is easy on the ears and naturally puts listeners in a cheerful mood.

The track appears on his debut album, Samba Esporte Fino, produced in Brazil in 2001, which became a stepping stone to his international success.

If you want to explore modern, stylish Brazilian music, this is the perfect place to start.

Aquarela do BrasilAry Barroso

Aquarela do Brasil, aka “Brasil!” Ary Barroso, 1939!

A famous samba composed by Ary Barroso in 1939, used in works such as the Disney film “Saludos Amigos.” He wrote it when heavy rain kept him from leaving the house, expressing the rain with the phrase “watercolor,” which led to the title “Aquarela do Brasil” (Watercolor of Brazil).

The piece focuses on the beauty of Brazil’s natural landscape.

AnjoBanda EVA

Banda EVA – Anjo

This song by Banda Eva, which Ivete Sangalo used to be a part of, wraps you up like an angel’s wings with Saulo’s gentle vocals.

The title “Anjo” means “angel.” It’s the perfect track when you want to sink into a romantic mood.

Desde Que O Samba É SambaCaetano Veloso

Caetano Veloso – Desde Que O Samba É Samba

This song praises samba, which, when you put your sorrow into it, makes it feel a little lighter and gives you the sense you can somehow get through it.

In this version, Caetano Veloso’s distinctive, conversational singing makes you feel as if you’re sitting in a café.

A NamoradaCarlinhos Brown

Carlinhos Brown – A Namorada

In a way, this song is an ideal pop tune.

It sings about everyday life, and it’s become a song I want to listen to before heading to work each day.

For office workers around my age, I think putting it on during breakfast could give you the strength to get through the day.

Samba de OrlyChico Buarque

Samba de Orly – Toquinho & Vinícius

A classic samba composed by Toquinho & Vinícius.

It was included on the 1971 album Construção.

The song is said to criticize Brazil’s military regime at the time, and its lyrics are based on words entrusted by a Brazilian friend who visited Chico Buarque—then in exile in Europe—at Orly Airport in France, which is referenced in the title.

Amor I Love YouMarisa Monte

Marisa Monte – Amor I Love You (Clipe)

Marisa Monte has a uniquely calm, understated presence.

This is a song that anyone who’s ever loved someone will instantly relate to, and it’s one that will be cherished across generations.

The male spoken interlude is wonderfully cool and adds real character.