7 Songs Like Girl From Ipanema: Bossa Nova Playlist

Music, it’s the heartbeat of life, right? Today, I’m excited to share my handpicked selection of seven songs akin to the timeless “Girl from Ipanema.”

This choice, my friends, was inspired by the intoxicating rhythm, enchanting melody, and sensual undertones that this Bossa Nova classic exudes.

They say good music knows no boundaries, and with this list, I aim to transport you to the sun-soaked beaches of Brazil, even if you’re behind a mixer or rocking out in your living room. So, tighten those headphones, it’s time for a rhythmic adventure!

Here are the songs like Girl From Ipanema that you can check out:

List Of Songs Like Girl From Ipanema

Songs like Girl From Ipanema in a list format:

1. “Desafinado” by Antonio Carlos Jobim

From the album O Amor, O Sorriso e a Flor (1960), released under Odeon Records, “Desafinado” is another masterpiece by Antonio Carlos Jobim. This song is a true testament to Jobim’s genius, charmingly laced with signature Bossa Nova beats and gentle guitar strums. It has a dreamy, subtly off-beat charm that gives it its name—Desafinado, meaning “slightly out of tune” in Portuguese.

2. “Mas Que Nada” by Jorge Ben Jor

On Jorge Ben’s debut album Samba Esquema Novo (1963), released under Philips Records, “Mas Que Nada” resonates with joyous energy and vibrant samba rhythms. Jorge’s spirited vocals paired with a catchy beat create an infectious vibe that’s hard to resist.

3. “Corcovado (Quiet Nights of Quiet Stars)” by João Gilberto

This song, from the album O Amor, O Sorriso e a Flor (1960), under Odeon Records, embodies the tranquil beauty of a night in Brazil. João Gilberto’s gentle voice perfectly encapsulates the serene mood of this Bossa Nova classic.

4. “Agua De Beber” by Astrud Gilberto

A track from the album The Astrud Gilberto Album (1965), released under Verve Records, “Agua De Beber” is a soothing tune filled with Astrud’s velvety vocals. The sublime mix of jazz and Bossa Nova elements makes this a must-listen.

5. “Chega De Saudade” by João Gilberto

From the album Chega De Saudade (1959), under Odeon Records, this song marks the birth of Bossa Nova. The gentle guitar work and João’s soft voice make it an iconic representation of this Brazilian music style.

6. “Wave” by Antônio Carlos Jobim

The title track from Wave (1967), released under A&M Records, is an instrumental piece that echoes the tranquility of a wave. It’s a testament to Jobim’s ability to evoke feelings without words, just pure, mesmerizing music.

7. “Summer Samba (So Nice)” by Marcos Valle

From the album Brazilliance! (1966), released under Warner Bros. Records, “Summer Samba” is a delightful tune that beautifully combines samba rhythms with enchanting lyrics. It’s like a sip of a refreshing drink on a hot summer day.

Fun Facts: Tracks Similar to Girl From Ipanema

1. “Desafinado” by Antonio Carlos Jobim

One of the cool facts about “Desafinado” is its association with the Bossa Nova movement that was still considered revolutionary in the late ’50s and early ’60s. Its title, meaning “Out of Tune,” was actually a cheeky response to critics who initially dismissed Bossa Nova music as just that.

2. “Mas Que Nada” by Jorge Ben Jor

Here’s a fun fact: “Mas Que Nada” is a phrase that doesn’t have a direct English translation! It’s often mistaken to mean “More Than Nothing,” but in Brazilian Portuguese, it’s used more colloquially as an expression of disbelief or annoyance, somewhat akin to “Yeah, right!” in English.

3. “Corcovado (Quiet Nights of Quiet Stars)” by João Gilberto

“Corcovado” is named after the Corcovado mountain in Rio de Janeiro, which is known for the iconic Christ the Redeemer statue at its peak. This song is a love letter to the peaceful, serene nights in Brazil.

4. “Agua De Beber” by Astrud Gilberto

“Agua De Beber” means “Water to Drink” in English. The lyrics metaphorically discuss the idea of surrendering to love as one might surrender to thirst and drink water. It’s a subtle reminder of how powerful and natural love can be.

5. “Chega De Saudade” by João Gilberto

Often considered the first recorded Bossa Nova song, “Chega De Saudade” is credited with starting the Bossa Nova movement in the late 1950s. Its title roughly translates to “No More Blues,” symbolizing the fresh, innovative sound of Bossa Nova.

6. “Wave” by Antônio Carlos Jobim

Fun fact: “Wave” is one of the few entirely instrumental pieces that Jobim wrote. It is often referred to as a prime example of his ability to convey deep emotion without the use of lyrics, just pure, evocative music.

7. “Summer Samba (So Nice)” by Marcos Valle

“Summer Samba” is often associated with the feeling of summer. Its upbeat tempo and catchy melody are reminiscent of the joyous, carefree feeling that comes with warm summer days. It’s been covered by numerous artists in various languages, truly capturing the universal appeal of the season.

We’ve journeyed through the pulsating beats of Bossa Nova, sipped the serene tunes of Samba, and savored the soothing rhythm of these Brazilian classics.

So, keep those headphones close, let the rhythm guide you, and remember, in the symphony of life, we are all DJs. Until next time, stay groovy!

Thanks for reading.

TBone