BOSSA NOVA
The Bossa Nova is one of the most popular Latin music styles of all time, having originated in Brazil in the 1950’s. It continues to be an influential and beloved genre across many different countries and cultures.
As the genre continues its rise to prominence, it is important to note the key figures who have helped define and shape its sound. Here is a look at some of the most influential Bossa Nova artists.
Famous Bossa Nova Artists
The Brazilian multi-instrumentalist Roberto Menescal is widely credited as being one of the pioneers of the Bossa Nova movement. His 1960 album “O Som Do Jazz” was highly influential and brought together elements from both traditional Brazilian rhythms and jazz music. His unique style has inspired countless musicians in Brazil and around the world, making him a key figure in Bossa Nova.
Gilberto Gil is another artist who played a significant role in defining Bossa Nova. He became the Minister of Culture in Brazil in 2003, however before this he recorded numerous albums with artists such as Caetano Veloso and Gal Costa. The Brazilian musical genre known as Bossa Nova has been a cultural staple since the 1950s, captivating listeners all over the world.
The cool rhythms and intricate instrumentation of Bossa Nova have inspired some of today’s most iconic artists. From Paul McCartney’s covers of classic songs to Bruno Mars’ contemporary hits, and Billie Eilish many musicians have woven Bossa Nova into their own unique soundscapes. For decades now, these artists have kept the spirit alive with their own versions that pay homage to this distinctively Brazilian genre while also introducing new elements into their work.
BOSSA NOVA SONGS
Here are a few of our favorite Bossa Nova-infused tracks to get you in the mood for the new album!
1. “Corcovado” by Stan Getz & Astrud Gilberto This classic track is one of the most well-known Bossa Nova songs and has been covered by multiple artists. It was originally written by Antonio Carlos Jobim and Vinícius de Moraes for the play, Orfeu da Conceição, which was adapted into a popular film with the same title. The original version of the song was sung by Gilberto herself and was released in 1959. In 1964, Getz’s version hit #1 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and was awarded a Grammy for Best Jazz Performance, Soloist.
2 . “Aguas de Marco” by Stan Getz & Joao Gilberto This track is the fourth in a series of five songs Gilberto recorded in two days for Odeon Records. This particular song features Gilberto on vocals and Getz playing the tenor saxophone.
3. “Havana Jam” by Cuba’s Orquesta Aragon This song was originally written by Cuban jazz pianist and composer Chucho Vald es, but the version you hear in this video is performed by Cuba’s Orquesta Aragon. “Como Yo Te Amo” by Los Van Van This song is performed by the legendary band Los Van Van. It’s a classic disco song that many fans of Cuban music will recognize instantly.
4. “Desafinado” by Stan Getz & Joao Gilberto This track is the second in a series of five songs Gilberto recorded in two days for Odeon Records. This particular song features Gilberto on vocals and Getz playing the tenor saxophone.
5. “O Pato” by Stan Getz & Joao Gilberto This track is the fourth in a series of five songs Gilberto recorded in two days for Odeon Records. This particular song features Gilberto on vocals and Getz playing the tenor saxophone.
6. “Crepusculo” by Antonio Carlos Jobim & Stan Getz This song was written by Jobim in the late ’50s, but it wasn’t until 1964 that he and Getz recorded this track. It was released on the album Jazz Samba in 1965.
7. “Giant Steps” by John Coltrane This song was released on the album of the same name in 1959. It’s a challenging song that is not for beginners.
8. “So What” by Miles Davis This song was released on the album of the same name in 1959. It is considered one of the most difficult jazz standards to play for saxophone.
9. “Take Five” by Dave Brubeck This song was released on the album Time Out in 1959. It features a polyrhythm with a 5/4 time signature, and is considered one of the most difficult jazz standards to play for saxophone.
10. “Concierto de Aranjuez” by Rodrigo This is one of the most famous classical guitar pieces of all time. It was written in 1939 by Spanish composer Joaquín Rodrigo, and is best known for its extremely intricate melody.
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