Bossa Nova: The Story of the Brazilian Music That Seduced the World Summary and Reviews

Bossa Nova: The Story of the Brazilian Music That Seduced the World
by Ruy Castro

Bossa Nova: The Story of the Brazilian Music That Seduced the World
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Book Summary Information

Author: Ruy Castro
Foreword: Julian Dibbell
Edition: Hardcover
Audio: English (Unknown); English (Original Language); English (Published)
Published: 2000-10
ISBN: 1556524099
Number of pages: 352
Publisher: A Cappella Books (IL)

Book Reviews of Bossa Nova: The Story of the Brazilian Music That Seduced the World

Book Review: Absolutely the best.
Summary: 5 Stars

A thoroughly charming and authoritative history of Brazilian popular music, this book documents the rise of bossa nova, tracking the careers of Joao Gilberto, Antonio Carlos Jobim, Vinicius De Moraes, Nara Leao and others in a gossipy, informal narrative that's a delight to read. Castro brings the mythic figures of Brazil back down to human scale, poking fun at their humanity, their foibles and years of obscurity, while also pointing out their sheer brilliance, and the adoration that Brazilians feel for their music. The chatty, informal tone adds a nice hometown touch that lets you feel as if you were standing on the corner yourself when that gal from Ipanema walked by, cracking jokes with the rest of the fellas. This book is also notable for its emphasis on the now-neglected figures of the great "radio singers," who ruled the public heart in the decades before bossa hit - legendary figures such as Lucio Alves, Aloysio Oliveira, Orlando Silva, Dick Farney and Sylvia Telles whose stars have faded, but are compelling nonetheless. Castro has complete command of his subject, but doesn't feel stuffy or preachy at all. An outstanding book, and required reading for anyone looking for a deeper knowledge of Brazilian culture.

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