Astrud Gilberto, renowned for her ethereal rendition of The Girl from Ipanema, has passed away at the age of 83.

Inextricably linked to her success is her former husband, João Gilberto, a Brazilian singer, songwriter, and guitarist who played a pivotal role in the evolution of bossa nova music.

Who is João Gilberto?

Born in 1931, João Gilberto emerged as a musical prodigy, revolutionizing Brazilian popular music with his influential debut album, “Chega de Saudade,” in the late 1950s. In 1959, he married Astrud Weinert, and their partnership would have a lasting impact on the world of music.

In 1963, João Gilberto traveled to New York with Astrud, where they collaborated with jazz artist Stan Getz and Brazilian bossa nova star Antônio Carlos Jobim. The producer of the session sought an English-language vocalist for “The Girl from Ipanema,” leading Astrud, despite lacking prior recording experience, to lend her voice to the track.

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Initially uncredited, Astrud’s solo rendition of the song became a sensational hit in 1964, earning critical acclaim and winning a Grammy award.

Following their divorce that same year, Astrud Gilberto embarked on a successful solo career, while João Gilberto continued to shape the world of music with his minimalist guitar style and introspective vocals.

His collaboration with Stan Getz on the iconic album “Getz/Gilberto” introduced bossa nova to a global audience, leaving an indelible mark on jazz. João’s legacy endures, inspiring countless musicians, earning him prestigious accolades, and solidifying his status as an icon in Brazilian and international music.

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João Gilberto, the enigmatic pioneer of bossa nova, and Astrud Gilberto’s former husband, made an indescribable impact on the music industry. Together, their collaboration and João’s unmatched talent transformed the genre, captivating audiences worldwide. Their contributions will forever be celebrated, leaving an enduring legacy that continues to resonate in the hearts of music lovers.