Astrud Gilberto

Astrud Gilberto was a Brazilian singer whose voice introduced bossa nova to the wider world. She was born on 29 March 1940 in Salvador, Bahia, Brazil, and became known internationally for her performance on the 1960s hit "The Girl from Ipanema." Astrud was the first wife of guitarist João Gilberto, and she kept his surname professionally after their divorce in 1964. Her singing career spanned over three decades, with her final album released in 2002.

Astrud's rise to fame came unexpectedly. During a recording session with João and American jazz saxophonist Stan Getz, her then-husband had a surprise in store. João, unable to sing in English, and Getz, reluctant to perform vocals, led to Astrud being asked to sing the English lyrics. Accounts differ on who first suggested it, but the result was the same: Astrud's accented, evocative delivery captivated everyone. Getz reportedly told her, "This song is going to make you famous." The song, "The Girl from Ipanema," won a Grammy in 1965 and became a landmark recording of the 20th century.

She went on to enjoy popularity in the United States and internationally, particularly in Japan. Her best-known work came between the mid-1960s and early 1970s, but she remained active for years after. Astrud Gilberto passed away on 5 June 2023 at the age of 83. She was 83. Her legacy as a bossa nova and samba singer endures.