One name consistently arises when a discussion about Latin Jazz begins - Brazilian composer Antonio Carlos Jobim.  His intoxicating melodies and lush harmonies grab listeners around the globe while his songs’ complex harmonies and long forms equally engage musicians.  Traditional jazz musicians and Latin Jazz musicians have recorded his work; his themes can be heard everywhere from the stage to the elevator.  His songs reside in the popular consciousness of countless people, giving him a true world audience.

These songs have been widely accepted in both Latin and traditional jazz circles, making them must-know compositions for a jazz musician of any type.  Jobim’s most popular songs sit beside Tin Pan Alley in terms of importance to the traditional jazz musician.  When a group needs to throw a “Latin tune” into the set, Jobim’s music often fill that spot; both for the quality of the song and the fact that all the musician will know it.  In the Latin Jazz world, the importance of the songs varies depending upon the Latin focus.  Afro-Cuban jazz groups do not prioritize Jobim’s work as much; Bossa Nova does not work well on timbales, congas, and bongo.  Brazilian Jazz groups utilize Jobim quite a bit and more Latin Jazz groups are incorporating a variety of Latin styles.  Regardless, an in-depth knowledge of these songs benefits most jazz musicians.

The short list below represents Jobim’s most loved compositions that reside on the mandatory study list.  Jobim composed extensively and many more of his songs travel through jazz circles; they will be covered in another post.  This list contains the songs that have been repeatedly performed by musicians of all backgrounds.  I’ve only included classic recordings of Jobim himself performing theses songs; keep in mind that there are many, many more interpretations worth investigating.  All of these songs (and more) are included in Volume 98 of Jamey Aebersold’s jazz play-along series - Antonio Carlos Jobim: Bossa Nova.  It’s a great tool that allows you to practice these songs with a live rhythm section. 

I’ll be returning to Jobim later, but in the meantime, I’d love to hear from you - what are your favorite recordings of these songs?  What other Jobim compositions would you recommend?  Any suggestions in the study of these songs?  Let me know - Jobim is a musician that touched so many people; I’d love to include your ideas! 

1.  The Girl From Ipanema

Recording to Check Out: Getz/Gilberto, Joao Gilberto, Stan Getz, & Antonio Carlos Jobim

2.  Desafinado

Recording to Check Out: Getz/Gilberto, Joao Gilberto, Stan Getz, & Antonio Carlos Jobim

3.  Corcovado

Recording to Check Out: Getz/Gilberto, Joao Gilberto, Stan Getz, & Antonio Carlos Jobim

4.  Wave
Recording to Check Out: Wave, Antonio Carlos Jobim

5.  One Note Samba
Recording to Check Out: The Composer of Desafinado Plays, Antonio Carlos Jobim

6.  How Insensitive
Recording to Check Out: The Astrud Gilberto Album, Antonio Carlos Jobim & Astrud Gilberto

Check Out More Latin Jazz Standards:
Standards From The Latin Tradition
Latin Jazz Standards

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