“The bossa nova musical style evolved from samba but is more complex harmonically and less percussive. As opposed to Samba’s origins in the favelas, bossa nova emerged primarily from the upscale beachside neighborhoods of Rio de Janeiro. Certain similar elements were already evident, even influences from Western classical music like Gershwin’s Cuban Overture with its characteristic ‘Latin’ clave rhythm. The influence on bossa nova of jazz styles such as cool jazz is often debated by historians and fans, but a similar “cool sensibility” is apparent.”

“The development of bossa nova is largely credited to artists working in the 1950s including Johnny Alf, Antonio Carlos Jobim and João Gilberto. One of the first bossa nova songs was “Bim-Bom” by Gilberto. Other songs that popularized the style included Dorival Caymmi‘s “Saudade da Bahia” and Elizete Cardoso‘s recording of “Chega de Saudade” on the Canção do Amor Demais LP, composed by Vinícius de Moraes (lyrics) and Antonio Carlos Jobim (music). The song was released soon after by Gilberto.”