João Gilberto dies at the age of 88 years old
The Brazilian musician João Gilberto has died aged 88 at his home in Rio de Janeiro.
The singer and guitarist is best known for introducing the bossa nova genre to the world in 1958 and his unique musical style. Blended traditional samba with contemporary jazz.
João Gilberto was born in the Brazilian state of Bahia in 1931 and his music came to symbolize a period of hope and optimism in the country.
He launched a new musical movement known as bossa nova when he released the record “Chega de Saudade” in 1959.
Over the past 10 years, he lived alone in Rio, fighting mental health and financial issues.