[2026] Brazil’s National Music! A Collection of Iconic and Popular Samba Songs

Vai PassarChico Buarque

Chico Buarque – Vai Passar

This is a song by Chico Buarque, a singer famous as a singer-songwriter in the Brazilian pop music genre known as MPB.

Strictly speaking, he isn’t a samba singer, but in this song he really embraces a samba rhythm—it’s a very light and lively track.

Canto das Três RacasClara Nunes

CANTO DAS TRÊS RAÇAS – CLARA NUNES

The song released in 1976 by Brazil’s diva Clara Nunes is a masterpiece that beautifully fuses the soul of samba with a social message.

Depicting the history and hardships of Brazil’s three races, the piece moves listeners with its powerful rhythm and emotionally rich vocals.

Included on an album released by the Odeon label, it skillfully weaves together elements of samba and MPB.

The lyrics, which celebrate Brazil’s diversity and cultural heritage, evoke national pride and empathy.

It’s a recommended track for those interested in social issues or eager to experience the essence of Brazilian music.

Trem das OnzeAdoniran Barbosa

Adoniran Barbosa – O trem das onze

Adoniran Barbosa, a pivotal giant of São Paulo samba known for his distinctive raspy, gravelly voice.

Born João Rubinato, he was an Italian-Brazilian who showcased multifaceted talents not only as a singer-songwriter but also as a comedian.

O trem das onze—also known in Japan as The 11 O’Clock Night Train—is one of the most celebrated masterpieces in Barbosa’s discography, a massive hit that achieved worldwide fame.

Originally, it became a hit sung by the veteran São Paulo samba group Demônios da Garoa, but this time I’ve included the version performed by Barbosa himself.

Needless to say, there are countless cover versions—be sure to check those out as well!

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Foi Um Rio Que Passou em Minha VidaPaulinho da Viola

Paulinho Da Viola – Foi Um Rio Que Passou Em Minha Vida

Paulinho da Viola is a singer-songwriter who has produced numerous sophisticated samba masterpieces, so much so that he is known as the ‘prince’ of the samba world.

While he is renowned for his work in samba, his talent is also recognized in choro and pop music.

Tombo in 7/4Airto Moreira

Airto Moreira – Tombo in 7/4

This is the song that served as the original source for the famous track “Samba de Janeiro.” Airto Moreira is one of the leading artists in samba fusion; he collaborated with jazz legend Miles Davis and found success in North America.

Atire a primeira pedraAtaulfo Alves

Ataulfo Alves – Atire a primeira pedra

Ataulfo Alves is a Black samba composer and singer who debuted in the 1930s, remained active through the 1960s, and left behind many masterpieces.

Among his songs, which have become standards, is “Atire a Primeira Pedra.”

As Rosas Não FalamCartola

Cartola – AS ROSAS NÃO FALAM – Angenor de Oliveira

When it comes to the signature works of Cartola, the legendary sambista whom Brazil proudly claims, this song surely stands out.

Depicting the pain of heartbreak through the poetic device of speaking to a rose, it was included on the album “Cartola II,” released in February 1976.

Its beautiful, quintessential samba melody and deeply emotive lyrics make it a masterpiece that resonates with listeners.

The anecdote that Cartola wrote it on his 65th birthday only enhances its allure.

It is truly a quintessential samba piece that offers solace to anyone seeking comfort when their heart is wounded.