A roundup of great masterpieces and popular songs of Brazilian music
If your knowledge of Brazilian music is limited to stylish, relaxing bossa nova you hear at cafés or the samba played during Carnival, this article is a must-read! Brazil is a vast, multiethnic country with a wide range of musical styles—so many, in fact, that when you include subgenres, the variety is astonishing.
In this piece, we’ve researched and compiled a selection focused on classic Brazilian standards and historically significant masterpieces.
Give these tracks a listen, and your image of Brazilian music might just change!
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Great masterpieces and popular songs of Brazilian music (71–80)
MulheresMartinho da Vila
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.
Burn it BlueCaetano Veloso
This duet by Caetano Veloso and Lila Downs is a famous song, said to be among the finest of Caetano Veloso’s compositions.
It was used in the film Frida and was performed at the Academy Awards in 2003.
O QUE É QUE A BAIANA TEMCarmen Miranda
Carmen Miranda was a singer and actress who was active in Brazil and the United States in the early 20th century.
“Baiana” refers to a woman from the state of Bahia, and this song sings about the charms they possess.
When people think of the Carnival baianas, they picture full-figured women in long dresses, adorned with various decorations on their heads, spinning as they dance.
Great and Popular Masterpieces of Brazilian Music (81–90)
PENSAR EM VOCÊDaniela Mercury
Daniela Mercury’s slightly husky, powerful voice shines here.
Although she’s also an outstanding dancer, this song—sung tenderly and from the heart—is one I’d like to dedicate to someone I truly love.
It’s a beautiful piece that makes you feel how loving someone can give you the courage to live.
ClareanaJoyce Moreno
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.
Fool on the HillSergio Mendes & BRASIL’66
Included on Sergio Mendes & Brasil ’66’s fourth album, this 1968 work is a cover of The Beatles.
By arranging a universally known song in bossa nova style, it created a sense of freshness and helped spread bossa nova around the world.
Samba da Minha TerraDorival Caymmi
Titled “Samba of My Homeland,” this piece is by Dorival Caymmi, a master of the Bahia school who greatly influenced Brazilian music.
Inspired by the samba dance, it was released in 1957 and remains a beloved classic to this day.