A roundup of great masterpieces and popular songs of Brazilian music

Mulher do Fim do MundoElza Soares

Elza Soares – Mulher do Fim do Mundo (Clipe Oficial)

Elza Soares, one of Brazil’s greatest singers.

She kept singing until nearly 90, and helped lay the foundations of a genre known as MPB by blending samba and baião with elements of jazz and rock.

Among her works, the one I especially recommend is Mulher do Fim do Mundo (Woman of the End of the World).

She was 84 at the time, yet the music feels strikingly contemporary and sophisticated—far beyond what you’d expect from an 84-year-old artist.

Beijar na BocaClaudia Leitte

Claudia Leitte – Beijar Na Boca

This piece, selected from the solo debut of Claudia Leitte, the songstress representing Brazil’s axé music, features a lively rhythm and bright melody, celebrating liberation from past constraints and the joy of embracing a new life.

It was included on her first solo live album, Ao Vivo em Copacabana, released in November 2008, and was performed before an audience of over 500,000 on Copacabana Beach.

Its cheerful vibe evokes the heat of Carnival, making it perfect for amping up dance parties and events.

Showcasing the full appeal of axé music, this track is also recommended as an introduction to Brazilian music.

Vamos fugirGilberto Gil

Vamos fugir (Participação especial de The Wailers)

Gilberto Gil has crafted one of Brazil’s most celebrated songs into a track brimming with diverse appeal.

This work features a soothing reggae rhythm that blends Brazilian music with North American and African elements.

The lyrics express a yearning for freedom alongside a loved one, and you can sense Gil’s characteristic political message as well.

Released in 1984, it became one of the signature hits of his career and was also used in an Amazon Prime Video program.

It’s a perfect listen for those seeking a fresh, relaxed vibe or anyone interested in discovering a new side of Brazilian music.

O Canto da CidadeDaniela Mercury

Daniela Mercury – O Canto Da Cidade

With its powerful rhythm and bright, vibrant energy, this track appears on the album “O Canto da Cidade,” released in September 1992 by Daniela Mercury from Salvador, Brazil.

A defining work of axé music that blends Afro-Brazilian rhythms with contemporary pop elements, it became a nationwide hit in Brazil and catapulted Mercury to stardom.

The lyrics, expressing love and pride for the city, offered hope to Brazilians facing political and economic hardship at the time, and the song remains etched in people’s hearts as an embodiment of the Carnival spirit.

It’s highly recommended not only for those interested in Brazilian music and culture, but also for anyone seeking powerful, uplifting music.

O LeãozinhoCaetano Veloso

O Leaozinho

Released in January 1977, this song is known as a landmark of Brazilian popular music (MPB).

Its gentle vocals and acoustic guitar timbre are striking, expressing the beauty of love and nature through warm lyrics.

It was also featured on the soundtrack of the TV drama “Sem Lenço, Sem Documento,” becoming beloved by many.

Dedicated by Caetano Veloso to his friend Dadi Carvalho, the piece is acclaimed for celebrating friendship and intimacy.

Influenced by bossa nova, it has a relaxed atmosphere and is recommended as background music when you want to feel calm or spend time with someone special.

Asa BrancaLuiz Gonzaga

Luiz Gonzaga – Asa Branca ft. Fagner, Sivuca, Guadalupe

A track meaning “White Wings,” included on the 1971 album Caetano Veloso.

Composed by Luiz Gonzaga, a leading figure in Northeastern (Nordeste) music, it’s a bright song featuring accordion and performed with traditional rhythms.

Ranked No.

4 on Rolling Stone’s list of the greatest Brazilian songs.

É Isso AíAna Carolina, Seu Jorge

Ana Carolina, Seu Jorge – É Isso Aí (The Blower’s Daughter) (Ao Vivo)

This duet between the two creates an indescribable vibe that makes you want to listen over and over.

The calm, rich voice of Ana Carolina and the slightly husky tone of Seu Jorge—who shot to fame for his appearance in the film City of God—blend into an irresistible harmony.