Brazilian Guitar Playlist Guide

Introduction

Brazilian guitar is a vast and rich tradition that blends intricate rhythms, harmonic sophistication, and deep emotional expression. From the gentle sway of bossa nova to the fiery pulse of samba, the genre spans a diverse range of styles, each with its own historical and cultural significance.

This playlist is designed to accompany the Brazilian Guitar Techniques course by Rafael Valim, offering essential recordings that showcase the core elements of Brazilian guitar playing.

For students of Brazilian guitar, these songs serve as both inspiration and aural study material, providing insight into phrasing, rhythm, harmony, and composition. The selections cover key figures like Baden Powell, João Gilberto, Gilberto Gil, Toquinho, and Yamandu Costa, among others, highlighting their contributions to Brazilian music.

Bossa Nova & MPB (Música Popular Brasileira)

Bossa nova revolutionized Brazilian music in the late 1950s, blending samba rhythms with jazz harmonies. It features delicate guitar accompaniment, characterized by syncopated patterns, lush chord voicings, and a soft vocal delivery. MPB (Música Popular Brasileira) emerged later as a broader genre that absorbed influences from folk, rock, and jazz while maintaining a Brazilian identity.

• João Gilberto – “Chega de Saudade”
• Antonio Carlos Jobim & João Gilberto – “Garota de Ipanema”
• Luiz Bonfá – “Manhã de Carnaval”
• Baden Powell – “Samba Triste”
• Toquinho – “Tarde em Itapoã”
• Gilberto Gil – “Expresso 2222”
• Caetano Veloso – “Sampa”

Samba & Partido Alto

Samba is one of the most important musical styles in Brazil, with its syncopated rhythms and vibrant energy. Partido alto, a subgenre of samba, emphasizes improvisation and percussive guitar techniques, making it an exciting style for guitarists to explore.

• Baden Powell – “Samba da Bênção”
• Dorival Caymmi – “Samba da Minha Terra”
• João Bosco – “O Bêbado e a Equilibrista”
• Maria Bethânia – “Roda”
• Paulinho Nogueira – “Menino Desce o Morro”
• Zeca Pagodinho – “Coração em Desalinho”
• João Bosco – “Linha de Passe”
• Jorge Aragão – “Vou Festejar”

Choro & Instrumental Guitar

Choro is often considered the precursor to samba and bossa nova, featuring virtuosic instrumental melodies, fast-paced improvisation, and complex harmonies. It is a fundamental style for any guitarist wanting to master Brazilian phrasing and ornamentation.

• Jacob do Bandolim – “Doce de Coco”
• Yamandu Costa – “Samba do Arnesto”
• Pixinguinha – “Carinhoso”
• Baden Powell – “Canto de Ossanha”

Maracatu & Contemporary Sounds

Maracatu is an Afro-Brazilian rhythm originating from Pernambuco, characterized by deep, driving beats and a strong connection to dance and ceremony. Contemporary artists have incorporated maracatu and other regional styles into their compositions, expanding the possibilities of Brazilian guitar.

• Lenine – “Leão do Norte”
• Chico César – “Mama África”
• Orquestra Alada Trovao Do Mata – “Maracatu, Nação do Amor”

Summary

This playlist provides a roadmap through the diverse world of Brazilian guitar, guiding students through foundational styles and influential artists. Whether you’re focusing on bossa nova’s soft syncopations, samba’s percussive drive, choro’s intricate melodies, or maracatu’s rhythmic power, these recordings offer essential insights for any guitarist looking to master Brazilian music.

For a deeper dive, explore Rafael Valim’s Brazilian Guitar Techniques course at World Music Method, and for percussion enthusiasts, check out the Brazilian Drum Kit Rhythms course here.