383 albums · 1950–2025

Essential Brazilian albums

The Brazilian music albums that defined each genre, from million-sellers to game-changers, with one sentence on each. Filter by genre and decade; each title opens a YouTube search.

383 results

1950s
1950
Samba
Noel Rosa e Aracy de Almeida
Aracy de Almeida
One of the 100 greatest Brazilian albums (Rolling Stone Brasil, 2007).
1954
Samba
Canções Praieiras
Dorival Caymmi
One of the 100 greatest Brazilian albums (Rolling Stone Brasil, 2007).
1956
Samba
Conceição
Cauby Peixoto
The album of Cauby's biggest hit.
1958
Bossa Nova
Canção do Amor Demais
Elizeth Cardoso
Songs by Tom and Vinicius with João Gilberto's guitar on two tracks; an early bossa nova landmark.
1959
Bossa Nova
Chega de Saudade
João Gilberto
The record that opens bossa nova: syncopated guitar and whispered voice.
1959
Brazilian Rock
Estúpido Cupido
Celly Campello
Brazil's first big rock-linked teen hit; it paved the way for Jovem Guarda.
1959
Samba
Caymmi e Seu Violão
Dorival Caymmi
One of the 100 greatest Brazilian albums (Rolling Stone Brasil, 2007).
1960s
1960
Bossa Nova
O Amor, o Sorriso e a Flor
João Gilberto
Second LP, with "Samba de Uma Nota Só" and "Corcovado".
1961
Bossa Nova
João Gilberto
João Gilberto
Third LP, closing bossa nova's founding trilogy.
1963
Bossa Nova
The Composer of Desafinado, Plays
Tom Jobim
Jobim's first instrumental record in the US, arranged by Claus Ogerman.
1963
Brazilian Rock
Samba Esquema Novo
Jorge Ben Jor
The debut that founded samba-rock, with "Mas Que Nada" and "Vem Morena".
1964
Bossa Nova
Getz/Gilberto
Stan Getz & João Gilberto
Took bossa nova to the world, with "The Girl from Ipanema" and Astrud Gilberto.
1964
Bossa Nova
Nara
Nara Leão
Debut, between bossa nova and hillside samba.
1965
Jazz and Instrumental
Coisas
Moacir Santos
A masterpiece of Brazilian jazz.
1965
MPB
Dois na Bossa
Elis Regina & Jair Rodrigues
Live album by the duo of O Fino da Bossa; a huge seller.
1965
MPB
Elis
Elis Regina
First major album by the singer who defined festival-era MPB.
1965
MPB
Show Opinião
Nara Leão, João do Vale e Zé Kéti
One of the 100 greatest Brazilian albums (Rolling Stone Brasil, 2007).
1965
Brazilian Rock
Jovem Guarda
Roberto Carlos
Made Roberto Carlos the teen idol and named the movement, between iê-iê-iê and ballads.
1966
Bossa Nova
Herb Alpert Presents Sergio Mendes & Brasil '66
Sérgio Mendes
The version of "Mas Que Nada" heard around the world.
1966
Bossa Nova
Os Afro-Sambas
Baden Powell e Vinicius de Moraes
One of the 100 greatest Brazilian albums (Rolling Stone Brasil, 2007).
1966
MPB
Chico Buarque de Hollanda
Chico Buarque
Debut, with "A Banda" and "Olê, Olá".
1967
Bossa Nova
Francis Albert Sinatra & Antônio Carlos Jobim
Frank Sinatra & Tom Jobim
Sinatra sings Jobim, with Jobim himself on guitar.
1967
Bossa Nova
Wave
Tom Jobim
Instrumental, orchestral Jobim, with the title track.
1967
Choro
Vibrações
Jacob do Bandolim
With Época de Ouro; one of choro's most celebrated records.
1967
Jazz and Instrumental
Quarteto Novo
Quarteto Novo
Hermeto, Airto, Heraldo do Monte and Théo de Barros: baião in jazz.
1967
Brazilian Rock
Em Ritmo de Aventura
Roberto Carlos
Soundtrack to the film of the same name; the peak of Jovem Guarda and of rock in the mainstream.
1967
Brazilian Rock
Roberto Carlos em Ritmo de Aventura
Roberto Carlos
One of the 100 greatest Brazilian albums (Rolling Stone Brasil, 2007).
1968
MPB
Caetano Veloso
Caetano Veloso
Tropicalist solo debut, with "Alegria, Alegria" and "Tropicália".
1968
MPB
Gilberto Gil
Gilberto Gil
Gil with Os Mutantes and Rogério Duprat, with "Domingo no Parque".
1968
MPB
Tropicália ou Panis et Circencis
Caetano Veloso, Gilberto Gil, Gal Costa, Tom Zé, Os Mutantes e Nara Leão
One of the 100 greatest Brazilian albums (Rolling Stone Brasil, 2007).
1968
Brazilian Rock
O Inimitável
Roberto Carlos
One of the 100 greatest Brazilian albums (Rolling Stone Brasil, 2007).
1968
Brazilian Rock
Os Mutantes
Os Mutantes
Psychedelia, MPB and studio experiments, with "Panis et Circenses" and "Bat Macumba".
1968
Brazilian Rock
Tropicália ou Panis et Circensis
Vários Artistas
The Tropicália manifesto, with Caetano, Gil, Gal, Tom Zé and Os Mutantes.
1969
MPB
Gal Costa
Gal Costa
Tropicalist solo debut, with "Baby" and "Divino, Maravilhoso".
1969
Brazilian Rock
Mutantes
Os Mutantes
One of the 100 greatest Brazilian albums (Rolling Stone Brasil, 2007).
1969
Samba
Martinho da Vila
Martinho da Vila
Debut, with "Casa de Bamba" and "O Pequeno Burguês".
1970s
1970
Jazz and Instrumental
A Bad Donato
João Donato
One of the 100 greatest Brazilian albums (Rolling Stone Brasil, 2007).
1970
MPB
Roberto Carlos
Roberto Carlos
The album of "Jesus Cristo" and "Ana".
1970
Brazilian Rock
A Divina Comédia ou Ando Meio Desligado
Os Mutantes
Mature psychedelia and songs that became classics.
1970
Brazilian Rock
A Máquina Voadora
Ronnie Von
A rare psychedelic record joining prog and MPB.
1970
Brazilian Rock
Som Imaginário
Som Imaginário
Milton Nascimento's band; psychedelia, jazz-rock and experimentalism from Minas.
1970
Samba
Foi um Rio que Passou em Minha Vida
Paulinho da Viola
The album of the song-tribute to Portela.
1970
Samba
Força Bruta
Jorge Ben
One of the 100 greatest Brazilian albums (Rolling Stone Brasil, 2007).
1970
Soul and Black Music
Tim Maia
Tim Maia
The debut that founded Brazilian soul, with "Azul da Cor do Mar" and "Primavera".
1971
MPB
Construção
Chico Buarque
Lyrics of near-mathematical precision about life under the dictatorship.
1971
MPB
Fa-Tal: Gal a Todo Vapor
Gal Costa
A live album that became a counterculture symbol.
1971
MPB
Roberto Carlos
Roberto Carlos
The album of "Detalhes" and "Como Dois e Dois".
1971
Brazilian Rock
Carlos, Erasmo
Erasmo Carlos
Rock'n'roll, soul and MPB in the artist's search for new sounds.
1971
Brazilian Rock
Jardim Elétrico
Os Mutantes
One of the 100 greatest Brazilian albums (Rolling Stone Brasil, 2007).
1971
Soul and Black Music
Tim Maia
Tim Maia
The album of "Não Quero Dinheiro".
1972
Jazz and Instrumental
Free
Airto Moreira
Brazilian percussion in CTI-label jazz.
1972
MPB
Elis
Elis Regina
With Elis's first recording of "Águas de Março".
1972
MPB
Expresso 2222
Gilberto Gil
The return from exile, with "Back in Bahia" and "Oriente".
1972
Brazilian Rock
Acabou Chorare
Novos Baianos
Rock and pop blended with samba, baião and choro; often ranked among Brazil's greatest records.
1972
Brazilian Rock
Clube da Esquina
Milton Nascimento & Lô Borges
A double album combining music from Minas, jazz, MPB and rock.
1972
Brazilian Rock
Transa
Caetano Veloso
Recorded in London exile: reggae, prog and funk with MPB.
1972
Samba
A Dança da Solidão
Paulinho da Viola
One of the 100 greatest Brazilian albums (Rolling Stone Brasil, 2007).
1973
Bossa Nova
João Gilberto
João Gilberto
The "white album": voice, guitar and minimal percussion.
1973
Bossa Nova
Matita Perê
Tom Jobim
One of the 100 greatest Brazilian albums (Rolling Stone Brasil, 2007).
1973
Jazz and Instrumental
Prelude
Eumir Deodato
With "Also Sprach Zarathustra (2001)", a Grammy winner.
1973
Jazz and Instrumental
Quem É Quem
João Donato
One of the 100 greatest Brazilian albums (Rolling Stone Brasil, 2007).
1973
MPB
Araçá Azul
Caetano Veloso
Caetano's most experimental album.
1973
MPB
Milagre dos Peixes
Milton Nascimento
An album almost without lyrics, because of censorship.
1973
MPB
Pérola Negra
Luiz Melodia
One of the 100 greatest Brazilian albums (Rolling Stone Brasil, 2007).
1973
MPB
Índia
Gal Costa
Gal at her peak, with a cover censored at the time.
1973
Brazilian Rock
Krig-ha, Bandolo!
Raul Seixas
Start of the solo career and of the "maluco beleza" persona; rock, baião and blues.
1973
Brazilian Rock
Secos & Molhados
Secos & Molhados
Folk-rock, MPB and psychedelia with Ney Matogrosso's androgynous performance.
1973
Samba
Nelson Cavaquinho
Nelson Cavaquinho
One of the 100 greatest Brazilian albums (Rolling Stone Brasil, 2007).
1973
Samba
Nervos de Aço
Paulinho da Viola
One of the 100 greatest Brazilian albums (Rolling Stone Brasil, 2007).
1973
Soul and Black Music
Tim Maia
Tim Maia
The album of "Gostava Tanto de Você".
1974
Bossa Nova
Elis & Tom
Elis Regina & Tom Jobim
The Los Angeles meeting of the greatest singer and the greatest composer, with "Águas de Março".
1974
MPB
Cantar
Gal Costa
One of the 100 greatest Brazilian albums (Rolling Stone Brasil, 2007).
1974
Brazilian Rock
Gita
Raul Seixas
Experimental phase, mysticism and social critique; his best-selling record.
1974
Brazilian Rock
Loki?
Arnaldo Baptista
First solo record after Os Mutantes, heavy on psychedelia.
1974
Samba
A Tábua de Esmeralda
Jorge Ben
Samba-rock, guitar and alchemy; Jorge Ben's most celebrated record.
1974
Samba
Cartola
Cartola
The Mangueira master's recording debut, on the Marcus Pereira label.
1975
MPB
Gil & Jorge: Ogum, Xangô
Gilberto Gil e Jorge Ben
One of the 100 greatest Brazilian albums (Rolling Stone Brasil, 2007).
1975
MPB
Minas
Milton Nascimento
Milton and Som Imaginário, with "Fé Cega, Faca Amolada".
1975
MPB
Qualquer Coisa / Jóia
Caetano Veloso
One of the 100 greatest Brazilian albums (Rolling Stone Brasil, 2007).
1975
MPB
Refazenda
Gilberto Gil
One of the 100 greatest Brazilian albums (Rolling Stone Brasil, 2007).
1975
MPB
Revolver
Walter Franco
One of the 100 greatest Brazilian albums (Rolling Stone Brasil, 2007).
1975
MPB
Água do Céu – Pássaro
Ney Matogrosso
Ney's solo debut after Secos & Molhados.
1975
Brazilian Rock
Criaturas da Noite
O Terço
Often called the greatest classic of Brazilian prog.
1975
Brazilian Rock
Fruto Proibido
Rita Lee & Tutti Frutti
Cemented Rita Lee in rock, with "Ovelha Negra".
1975
Brazilian Rock
Lar de Maravilhas
Casa das Máquinas
The move into prog, with esoteric themes.
1975
Brazilian Rock
Novo Aeon
Raul Seixas
One of the 100 greatest Brazilian albums (Rolling Stone Brasil, 2007).
1975
Brazilian Rock
Racional
Tim Maia
Soul, funk and psychedelic rock from the Cultura Racional phase.
1975
Samba
A Voz do Samba
Alcione
Debut, with "Não Deixe o Samba Morrer".
1975
Samba
Claridade
Clara Nunes
With "O Mar Serenou"; a big seller.
1976
Forró
Domingo, Menino Dominguinhos
Dominguinhos
One of the accordionist's key albums of the 1970s.
1976
MPB
Alucinação
Belchior
The album of "Como Nossos Pais" and "Apenas um Rapaz Latino-Americano".
1976
MPB
Doces Bárbaros
Caetano Veloso, Gal Costa, Gilberto Gil e Maria Bethânia
One of the 100 greatest Brazilian albums (Rolling Stone Brasil, 2007).
1976
MPB
Estudando o Samba
Tom Zé
An experimental dismantling of samba, rediscovered abroad in the 1990s.
1976
MPB
Falso Brilhante
Elis Regina
From the show of the same name, with "Como Nossos Pais".
1976
MPB
Guilherme Arantes
Guilherme Arantes
Debut, with "Meu Mundo e Nada Mais".
1976
MPB
Meus Caros Amigos
Chico Buarque
With "O Que Será" and "Meu Caro Amigo".
1976
Brazilian Rock
Bixo da Seda
Bixo da Seda
One of the first prog records from Rio Grande do Sul.
1976
Brazilian Rock
Jack, o Estripador
Made in Brazil
Heavy blues and ironic lyrics; a São Paulo underground landmark.
1976
Samba
Canto das Três Raças
Clara Nunes
The title track about the roots of the Brazilian people.
1976
Samba
Cartola
Cartola
Second album, with "O Mundo É um Moinho" and "As Rosas Não Falam".
1976
Samba
África Brasil
Jorge Ben
Samba-funk with "Taj Mahal" and "Ponta de Lança Africano".
1976
Soul and Black Music
Cuban Soul: 18 Kilates
Cassiano
Brazilian soul revered by collectors.
1976
Soul and Black Music
Tim Maia Racional Vol. 2
Tim Maia
One of the 100 greatest Brazilian albums (Rolling Stone Brasil, 2007).
1977
Bossa Nova
Amoroso
João Gilberto
Standards and bossa with arrangements by Claus Ogerman.
1977
Jazz and Instrumental
Dança das Cabeças
Egberto Gismonti & Naná Vasconcelos
Guitar, piano and percussion in dialogue with the forest.
1977
Jazz and Instrumental
Slaves Mass
Hermeto Pascoal
The Alagoas-born "Sorcerer" in full sonic freedom.
1977
MPB
Refavela
Gilberto Gil
Gil returns from Nigeria and joins afrobeat, ijexá and reggae to samba.
1977
Brazilian Pop
Frenéticas
Frenéticas
The Brazilian disco era, with "Perigosa".
1977
Soul and Black Music
Maria Fumaça
Banda Black Rio
Instrumental funk from the Black Rio movement.
1978
MPB
Chico Buarque
Chico Buarque
With "Cálice" and "Apesar de Você", cleared by the censors.
1978
MPB
Clube da Esquina 2
Milton Nascimento
The Minas collective's second meeting, with guests such as Chico Buarque and Elis.
1978
MPB
Zé Ramalho
Zé Ramalho
Debut, with "Avôhai" and "Chão de Giz".
1978
MPB
Álibi
Maria Bethânia
The first album by a Brazilian woman singer to pass a million copies.
1978
Samba
De Pé no Chão
Beth Carvalho
Introduced Cacique de Ramos pagode, with "Vou Festejar".
1979
Forró
Ave de Prata
Elba Ramalho
Debut of the voice of forró and northeastern MPB.
1979
Jazz and Instrumental
Light as a Feather
Azymuth
Brazilian jazz-funk that became a reference for DJs worldwide.
1979
MPB
Angela Ro Ro
Ângela Ro Ro
One of the 100 greatest Brazilian albums (Rolling Stone Brasil, 2007).
1979
MPB
Cinema Transcendental
Caetano Veloso
With "Lua de São Jorge" and "Oração ao Tempo".
1979
MPB
Essa Mulher
Elis Regina
The album of "O Bêbado e a Equilibrista".
1979
MPB
Realce
Gilberto Gil
Pop and disco in Gil's own way.
1980s
1980
Jazz and Instrumental
Circense
Egberto Gismonti
One of the 100 greatest Brazilian albums (Rolling Stone Brasil, 2007).
1980
Jazz and Instrumental
Terra dos Pássaros
Toninho Horta
The Minas harmony of the Clube da Esquina guitarist.
1980
MPB
Alumbramento
Djavan
With "Meu Bem Querer".
1980
MPB
Beleléu, Leléu, Eu
Itamar Assumpção
One of the 100 greatest Brazilian albums (Rolling Stone Brasil, 2007).
1980
MPB
Clara Crocodilo
Arrigo Barnabé
One of the 100 greatest Brazilian albums (Rolling Stone Brasil, 2007).
1980
Samba
Samba É no Fundo de Quintal
Fundo de Quintal
Debut of the group that created the language of pagode.
1981
MPB
Fantasia
Gal Costa
With "Festa do Interior", one of Gal's biggest hits.
1982
Forró
Cavalo de Pau
Alceu Valença
Frevo and forró with "Tropicana".
1982
MPB
Luz
Djavan
Recorded in Los Angeles, with Stevie Wonder on harmonica on "Samurai".
1982
Brazilian Rock
As Aventuras da Blitz
Blitz
Pop-rock, reggae and humour that set off the BRock boom.
1982
Brazilian Rock
Barão Vermelho
Barão Vermelho
Raw urban-rock debut with Cazuza and Frejat.
1982
Sertanejo
Somos Apaixonados
Chitãozinho & Xororó
With "Fio de Cabelo", it passed a million copies.
1983
Children's Music
A Turma do Balão Mágico
A Turma do Balão Mágico
The album of "Superfantástico".
1983
Brazilian Rock
Camisa de Vênus
Camisa de Vênus
Sarcasm and blunt lyrics; a classic of protest rock.
1983
Brazilian Rock
Cinema Mudo
Os Paralamas do Sucesso
The band's blueprint: ska, reggae and rock, with "Vital e Sua Moto".
1984
Brazilian Rock
Crucificados Pelo Sistema
Ratos de Porão
Regarded as Latin America's first punk-hardcore album.
1984
Brazilian Rock
Fullgás
Marina Lima
A great 1980s pop-rock record that opened room for women in rock.
1984
Brazilian Rock
O Passo do Lui
Os Paralamas do Sucesso
Eight of its ten tracks became radio hits.
1984
Brazilian Rock
Titãs
Titãs
Debut of the eight-piece line-up, punk and new wave with "Sonífera Ilha".
1984
Samba
Mistura Brasileira
Agepê
With "Deixa Eu Te Amar"; it passed a million copies.
1985
Axé and Bahian Music
Magia
Luiz Caldas
The album of "Fricote", axé's starting point.
1985
Brazilian Rock
Educação Sentimental
Kid Abelha
Delicate pop-rock with "Fixação" and "Como Eu Quero".
1985
Brazilian Rock
Exagerado
Cazuza
Solo debut and the start of his approach to MPB.
1985
Brazilian Rock
Legião Urbana
Legião Urbana
Renato Russo as the voice of a generation; post-punk and new wave.
1985
Brazilian Rock
Mais Podres do que Nunca
Garotos Podres
Essential Brazilian punk, with "Papai Noel Velho Batuta".
1985
Brazilian Rock
Nós Vamos Invadir Sua Praia
Ultraje a Rigor
Acid humour and critical lyrics; the first gold and platinum record of Brazilian rock.
1985
Brazilian Rock
Revoluções por Minuto
RPM
Synthesizers and polished production; a huge seller.
1985
Brazilian Rock
Televisão
Titãs
Poppier and more accessible; a critique of the media.
1985
Sertanejo
Instrumental
Almir Sater
Instrumental viola caipira; a reference for generations of players.
1986
Children's Music
Xou da Xuxa
Xuxa
One of the best-selling albums in Brazilian history.
1986
Brazilian Rock
Cabeça Dinossauro
Titãs
Angry and political; for many critics the greatest album of the 1980s.
1986
Brazilian Rock
Capital Inicial
Capital Inicial
Punk and post-punk, with "Música Urbana" and "Veraneio Vascaína".
1986
Brazilian Rock
Cidade Em Torrente
Biquini Cavadão
Established the band in Brazilian pop rock.
1986
Brazilian Rock
Dois
Legião Urbana
The band's biggest hit, with "Tempo Perdido" and "Eduardo e Mônica"; over a million copies.
1986
Brazilian Rock
Longe Demais das Capitais
Engenheiros do Hawaii
Debut from Rio Grande do Sul, existential lyrics; landmark of the "gaúcho invasion".
1986
Brazilian Rock
O Concreto Já Rachou
Plebe Rude
A political mini-LP produced by Herbert Vianna.
1986
Brazilian Rock
O Futuro É Vortex
Os Replicantes
Fast, furious punk, with "Surfista Calhorda".
1986
Brazilian Rock
Pela Paz em Todo Mundo
Cólera
Political, pacifist punk; an independent-label success.
1986
Brazilian Rock
Rádio Pirata ao Vivo
RPM
A live, keyboard-heavy recording; one of the industry's biggest sellers.
1986
Brazilian Rock
Selvagem?
Os Paralamas do Sucesso
One of the 100 greatest Brazilian albums (Rolling Stone Brasil, 2007).
1986
Brazilian Rock
Vivendo e Não Aprendendo
Ira!
Established Edgard Scandurra as a songwriter; post-punk and pop rock.
1986
Samba
Zeca Pagodinho
Zeca Pagodinho
Solo debut, which established Zeca as the voice of pagode.
1986
Sertanejo
Roberta Miranda
Roberta Miranda
Debut, with "Majestade, o Sabiá".
1987
Axé and Bahian Music
Egito Madagascar
Olodum
Olodum's debut, with "Faraó (Divindade do Egito)".
1987
Brazilian Rock
A Revolta dos Dândis
Engenheiros do Hawaii
Defined the band's sound; a fan favourite.
1987
Brazilian Rock
Vida Bandida
Lobão
Rock, pop and new wave with "Vida Bandida" and "Me Chama".
1988
Children's Music
Xou da Xuxa 3
Xuxa
With "Ilariê"; often cited as the best-selling album in the country's history.
1988
Brazilian Rock
Ideologia
Cazuza
Among his most acclaimed, with "Ideologia", "Brasil" and "Faz Parte do Meu Show".
1988
Brazilian Rock
O Tempo Não Para (Ao Vivo)
Cazuza
Iconic live album of the solo years, with songs that became anthems.
1988
Brazilian Rock
Os Cascavelletes
Os Cascavelletes
Acid humour and eroticism in rockabilly, garage and punk.
1988
Brazilian Rock
Ouça o que Eu Digo: Não Ouça Ninguém
Engenheiros do Hawaii
Gessinger's philosophical lyrics, with "Terra de Gigantes".
1988
Brazilian Rock
Psicoacústica
Ira!
One of the band's most experimental albums.
1988
Soul and Black Music
Ed Motta & Conexão Japeri
Ed Motta
Debut, with "Manuel".
1989
Brazilian Funk
Funk Brasil
DJ Marlboro
The compilation that introduced funk carioca sung in Portuguese.
1989
MPB
MM
Marisa Monte
Live debut, with "Bem Que Se Quis".
1989
Brazilian Rock
As Quatro Estações
Legião Urbana
The introspective phase, with "Pais e Filhos".
1989
Brazilian Rock
Theatre of Fate
Viper
The first Brazilian melodic metal to draw attention abroad.
1989
Brazilian Rock
Õ Blésq Blom
Titãs
Peak of the band's golden era in production and range.
1990s
1990
Rap and Hip-Hop
Holocausto Urbano
Racionais MC's
The group's debut, with "Pânico na Zona Sul".
1990
Brazilian Rock
O Papa é Pop
Engenheiros do Hawaii
A poppier, more commercial sound; a 1990s hit.
1990
Sertanejo
Cowboy do Asfalto
Chitãozinho & Xororó
The album of "Evidências".
1990
Sertanejo
Leandro & Leonardo Vol. 4
Leandro & Leonardo
With "Pense em Mim"; sales in the millions.
1991
MPB
Mais
Marisa Monte
Produced by Arto Lindsay; the new MPB of the 1990s starts here.
1991
Brazilian Rock
Tudo Ao Mesmo Tempo Agora
Titãs
Experimental and heavy; it surprised critics and fans.
1991
Sertanejo
Zezé Di Camargo & Luciano
Zezé Di Camargo & Luciano
Debut, with "É o Amor".
1992
Axé and Bahian Music
O Canto da Cidade
Daniela Mercury
Axé takes the country, with the title track and "Swing da Cor".
1992
Brazilian Rock
Acústico MTV
Legião Urbana
The band's best-selling album and one of the country's most iconic.
1992
Brazilian Rock
Skank
Skank
Rock, ska and reggae debut, with "Garganta".
1993
Axé and Bahian Music
Timbalada
Timbalada
Debut of Carlinhos Brown's timbau drummers, with "Beija-Flor".
1993
Rap and Hip-Hop
Gabriel o Pensador
Gabriel o Pensador
Debut, with "Tô Feliz (Matei o Presidente)" and "Lôraburra".
1993
Brazilian Rock
Angels Cry
Angra
Power metal and classical music, with Andre Matos's voice.
1993
Brazilian Rock
Chaos A.D.
Sepultura
A watershed: tribal and industrial music inside thrash metal.
1994
Axé and Bahian Music
Música de Rua
Daniela Mercury
Daniela's follow-up to "O Canto da Cidade".
1994
MPB
Verde, Anil, Amarelo, Cor-de-Rosa e Carvão
Marisa Monte
Samba, pop and song in one of Marisa's best-selling albums.
1994
Brazilian Reggae
Sobre Todas as Forças
Cidade Negra
The first album with Toni Garrido, featuring "Onde Você Mora?".
1994
Brazilian Rock
Calango
Skank
Over a million copies; it cemented the band's sound.
1994
Brazilian Rock
Cássia Eller
Cássia Eller
Rock, pop and MPB, with "Malandragem".
1994
Brazilian Rock
Da Lama ao Caos
Chico Science & Nação Zumbi
The founding work of manguebeat: rock, maracatu and social critique.
1994
Brazilian Rock
O Rappa
O Rappa
A debut centred on social critique, police violence and racism.
1994
Brazilian Rock
Raimundos
Raimundos
Ramones-style punk with forró; around 200,000 copies.
1994
Brazilian Rock
Samba Esquema Noise
Mundo Livre S/A
Electronics, maracatu, samba and rock; another manguebeat landmark.
1995
Brazilian Rock
Mamonas Assassinas
Mamonas Assassinas
The band's only album; humour and parody, a sales phenomenon.
1995
Brazilian Rock
Usuário
Planet Hemp
Skate-punk and rap-rock for legalization; a gold record.
1996
Axé and Bahian Music
Alfagamabetizado
Carlinhos Brown
Carlinhos Brown's solo debut, with "A Namorada".
1996
Axé and Bahian Music
Na Cabeça e na Cintura
É o Tchan
Pagode baiano among the best-selling records of the 1990s.
1996
Brazilian Funk
Claudinho & Buchecha
Claudinho & Buchecha
The funk melody debut, with "Nosso Sonho" and "Conquista".
1996
Children's Music
Canções de Brincar
Palavra Cantada
Quality children's music that became a reference in schools.
1996
Folk Traditions
Festa do Boi Bumbá
Carrapicho
The album of "Tic, Tic, Tac", certified platinum.
1996
Brazilian Rock
Afrociberdelia
Chico Science & Nação Zumbi
One of the 100 greatest Brazilian albums (Rolling Stone Brasil, 2007).
1996
Brazilian Rock
Jota Quest
Jota Quest
Pop, funk and rock, with "Encontrar Alguém" and "Daqui pra Frente".
1996
Brazilian Rock
Roots
Sepultura
A global metal classic with Indigenous music and Brazilian rhythms.
1996
Brazilian Rock
Sobre Todas as Forças
Cidade Negra
Reggae and MPB, with "Onde Você Mora".
1996
Brazilian Rock
Tem Mas Acabou
Pato Fu
First half of a two-album, retro-sounding project.
1997
Indigenous Music
2 IHU – Kewere: Rezar
Marlui Miranda
Indigenous songs recorded live at Sesc Pompeia, São Paulo.
1997
MPB
Livro
Caetano Veloso
Winner of the Grammy for World Music.
1997
MPB
Por Onde Andará Stephen Fry?
Zeca Baleiro
Debut, with "Salão de Beleza".
1997
Rap and Hip-Hop
Sobrevivendo no Inferno
Racionais MC's
The most important Brazilian rap album, with "Diário de um Detento".
1997
Brazilian Reggae
Natiruts
Natiruts
Debut, with "Liberdade pra Dentro da Cabeça".
1997
Brazilian Rock
A Sétima Efervescência
Júpiter Maçã
Psychedelic and experimental; indie avant-garde.
1997
Brazilian Rock
Acústico MTV
Titãs
Intimate versions with Caetano Veloso and Marina Lima.
1997
Brazilian Rock
Transpiração Contínua Prolongada
Charlie Brown Jr.
Debut with around 250,000 copies and "Proibida pra Mim".
1997
Samba
Só Pra Contrariar
Só Pra Contrariar
One of the best-selling records in the country's history, with "Que Se Chama Amor".
1998
Gospel and Religious Music
Diante do Trono
Diante do Trono
The Minas group's debut, recorded live in Belo Horizonte.
1998
Gospel and Religious Music
Músicas para Louvar ao Senhor
Padre Marcelo Rossi
Over 3 million copies; one of the country's best-selling records.
1998
Brazilian Rock
Carnaval na Obra
Mundo Livre S/A
One of the 100 greatest Brazilian albums (Rolling Stone Brasil, 2007).
1998
Brazilian Rock
Volume Dois
Titãs
Album of the year at the Prêmio Multishow.
1999
Axé and Bahian Music
Ivete Sangalo
Ivete Sangalo
Solo debut after Banda Eva.
1999
Brega, Calypso and Sounds of Pará
Banda Calypso Vol. 1
Banda Calypso
An independent debut that spread across the North and Northeast.
1999
Electronic
São Paulo Confessions
Suba
Electronics and MPB by the Serbian producer based in São Paulo.
1999
MPB
Ana Carolina
Ana Carolina
Debut, with "Garganta".
1999
MPB
Djavan ao Vivo
Djavan
Album of the year at the Prêmio Multishow.
1999
MPB
Na Pressão
Lenine
Percussive guitar and urban lyrics from the Northeast.
1999
Brazilian Pop
As Quatro Estações
Sandy & Junior
The duo's teen-pop peak, with millions of copies.
1999
Brazilian Rock
Lado B Lado A
O Rappa
Experimental and heavy, with Marcelo Yuka's social lyrics.
1999
Brazilian Rock
Preço Curto, Prazo Longo
Charlie Brown Jr.
Over 250,000 copies and "Zóio de Lula".
1999
Brazilian Rock
Só No Forevis
Raimundos
Forró and carimbó inside punk, with "Mulher de Fases".
2000s
2000
Bossa Nova
Tanto Tempo
Bebel Gilberto
Electronic bossa nova that sold worldwide.
2000
Forró
Deixa Entrar
Falamansa
Debut of university forró, with "Xote da Alegria"; sold millions.
2000
MPB
Memórias, Crônicas e Declarações de Amor
Marisa Monte
Album of the year at the Prêmio Multishow.
2000
Rap and Hip-Hop
Rap É Compromisso
Sabotage
The only album released in his lifetime by the "Maestro do Canão".
2000
Brazilian Rock
Ilegal
Tihuana
Rock, reggae and rap, with "Que Ves?".
2000
Brazilian Rock
Nadando com os Tubarões
Charlie Brown Jr.
Youth and social themes, with "Não é Sério" featuring Negra Li.
2001
Brazilian Funk
Bonde do Tigrão
Bonde do Tigrão
Funk carioca on network TV in the early 2000s.
2001
Brazilian Pop
Kelly Key
Kelly Key
Debut, with "Baba".
2001
Brazilian Rock
100% Charlie Brown Jr. – Abalando a Sua Fábrica
Charlie Brown Jr.
Skate punk, rap and hardcore, with "Lugar ao Sol".
2001
Brazilian Rock
Acústico MTV
Cássia Eller
A posthumous album that confirmed the singer's power.
2001
Brazilian Rock
Ao Vivo MTV
Skank
Unplugged versions; one of the band's biggest sellers.
2001
Brazilian Rock
Bloco do Eu Sozinho
Los Hermanos
A step toward a more complex, mature sound.
2001
Brazilian Rock
Rebirth
Angra
A new chapter with a new line-up, with "Nova Era".
2001
Sertanejo
Acústico ao Vivo
Bruno & Marrone
The album that took the duo nationwide, with "Dormi na Praça".
2002
Electronic
Fernanda Porto
Fernanda Porto
Debut, with "Sambassim", MPB and drum'n'bass.
2002
MPB
Tribalistas
Tribalistas
Marisa Monte, Arnaldo Antunes and Carlinhos Brown; a hit without concerts.
2002
Brazilian Pop
Rouge
Rouge
The Popstars girl group, with "Ragatanga"; millions of copies.
2002
Rap and Hip-Hop
Nada Como um Dia Após o Outro Dia
Racionais MC's
A double album with "Negro Drama" and "Vida Loka".
2002
Brazilian Rock
Bocas Ordinárias
Charlie Brown Jr.
More rock'n'roll, with "Papo Reto" on the radio.
2002
Brazilian Rock
Chegou A Hora de Recomeçar
CPM 22
Cemented melodic hardcore, with "Dias Atrás" and "Regina Let's Go".
2002
Brazilian Rock
Ritual
Shaman
Melodic metal with Brazilian influences, by former Angra members.
2002
Samba
Deixa a Vida Me Levar
Zeca Pagodinho
The title track became the national team's anthem in the 2002 World Cup win.
2003
Gospel and Religious Music
Quero Me Apaixonar
Diante do Trono
Recorded live before a huge crowd; one of the country's best-selling gospel albums.
2003
MPB
Maria Rita
Maria Rita
Debut, with "A Festa"; a big seller.
2003
Rap and Hip-Hop
À Procura da Batida Perfeita
Marcelo D2
Samba and rap, produced by Mario Caldato Jr.
2003
Brazilian Rock
Acústico MTV
Charlie Brown Jr.
Unplugged versions that became a landmark in the catalogue.
2003
Brazilian Rock
Admirável Chip Novo
Pitty
A debut that brought a powerful female voice back to rock.
2003
Brazilian Rock
Detonautas
Detonautas
Alternative protest rock.
2003
Brazilian Rock
Ventura
Los Hermanos
Creative peak: rock and MPB with complex arrangements.
2003
Samba
Acústico MTV
Zeca Pagodinho
Pagode classics in acoustic versions; a huge seller.
2004
Axé and Bahian Music
MTV ao Vivo
Ivete Sangalo
Recorded at the Fonte Nova stadium in Salvador; one of her best-selling albums.
2004
MPB
Essa Boneca Tem Manual
Vanessa da Mata
With "Ai, Ai, Ai".
2004
Rap and Hip-Hop
Babylon by Gus Vol. 1: O Ano do Macaco
Black Alien
A cult classic of Rio rap.
2004
Brazilian Rock
Zero e Um
Dead Fish
A landmark of Brazilian hardcore, committed and powerful.
2005
MPB
Ana & Jorge
Ana Carolina e Seu Jorge
Album of the year at the Prêmio Multishow.
2005
Brazilian Rock
Pista Livre
Cachorro Grande
Direct garage rock with classic-rock and blues roots.
2006
Choro
Brasilianos
Hamilton de Holanda
The ten-string mandolin between choro and jazz.
2006
Electronic
Cansei de Ser Sexy
CSS
Indie-electro in English released by Sub Pop.
2006
Brazilian Rock
Canto dos Malditos Na Terra do Nunca
Canto dos Malditos Na Terra do Nunca
A melancholy debut from Bahia, post-punk and grunge.
2006
Brazilian Rock
Ciano
Fresno
A seminal Brazilian emo record.
2006
Brazilian Rock
NX Zero
NX Zero
Took the band into emo and pop-punk mainstream.
2007
Axé and Bahian Music
Multishow ao Vivo: Ivete no Maracanã
Ivete Sangalo
The concert at a packed Maracanã.
2007
Electronic
Chromophobia
Gui Boratto
Melodic techno released by Germany's Kompakt.
2007
Brazilian Rock
Desvio de Conduta
Strike
A symbol of Brazilian pop punk, with rock, pop and reggae.
2007
Samba
Samba Meu
Maria Rita
Album of the year at the Prêmio Multishow.
2007
Sertanejo
Ao Vivo em Goiânia
Jorge & Mateus
The album that launched the duo, with "Pode Chorar".
2008
Brazilian Rock
Agora
NX Zero
Album of the year at the Prêmio Multishow.
2008
Sertanejo
Ao Vivo em Uberlândia
Victor & Leo
Romantic sertanejo universitário at the top.
2009
Gospel and Religious Music
Uma Nova História
Fernandinho
The worship album that took over the churches, with the title track.
2009
MPB
Maria Gadú
Maria Gadú
Debut, with "Shimbalaiê".
2009
Brazilian Rock
C_Mpl_Te
Móveis Coloniais de Acaju
Rock, MPB and orchestral elements from the indie scene.
2009
Brazilian Rock
Gloria
Gloria
Heavy sound and striking lyrics; a metalcore reference.
2009
Brazilian Rock
Life Is A Big Holiday For Us
Black Drawing Chalks
Stoner, hard rock and blues rock.
2009
Sertanejo
Ao Vivo
Luan Santana
The album that made Luan sertanejo's teen idol.
2010s
2010
Brazilian Rock
Apanhador Só
Apanhador Só
Experimental and inventive; a highlight of the "new Brazilian rock".
2011
Gospel and Religious Music
Extraordinário Amor de Deus
Aline Barros
With "Ressuscita-me".
2011
MPB
O Que Você Quer Saber de Verdade
Marisa Monte
With "Ainda Bem".
2011
Rap and Hip-Hop
Nó na Orelha
Criolo
Rap, samba, afrobeat and reggae with "Não Existe Amor em SP".
2011
Brazilian Rock
Seiva
Rancore
A landmark of melodic, experimental hardcore.
2011
Sertanejo
Na Balada
Michel Teló
The album of "Ai Se Eu Te Pego", No. 1 in over 20 countries.
2012
Brega, Calypso and Sounds of Pará
Treme
Gaby Amarantos
Pará tecnobrega on record, with "Ex Mai Love".
2012
Classical Music
Brasileiro
Nelson Freire
Villa-Lobos and other Brazilian composers played by the pianist, released by Decca.
2012
MPB
Tudo Tanto
Tulipa Ruiz
Album of the year at the Prêmio Multishow.
2012
Brazilian Rock
Fast Relief
Garage Fuzz
Direct melodic hardcore with memorable riffs.
2012
Brazilian Rock
O Pensamento É Um Imã
Vivendo do Ócio
Poetic lyrics that established the band in indie rock.
2013
Gospel and Religious Music
Raridade
Anderson Freire
The album of the title track, one of the most sung worship songs of the decade.
2013
MPB
Condição Humana
Guilherme Arantes
Album of the year at the Prêmio Multishow.
2013
Brazilian Pop
Anitta
Anitta
Debut, with "Show das Poderosas".
2013
Rap and Hip-Hop
Batuk Freak
Karol Conká
Debut, with "Boa Noite".
2013
Rap and Hip-Hop
O Glorioso Retorno de Quem Nunca Esteve Aqui
Emicida
Studio debut, with "Levanta e Anda".
2013
Brazilian Rock
Real / Surreal
Scalene
Post-stoner, alternative and progressive.
2014
Brega, Calypso and Sounds of Pará
Feitiço Caboclo
Dona Onete
"Chamegado" carimbó recorded after the age of 70.
2014
Rap and Hip-Hop
Convoque Seu Buda
Criolo
Rap, samba and afrobeat after "Nó na Orelha".
2014
Rap and Hip-Hop
Cores & Valores
Racionais MC's
The group's return after twelve years.
2014
Brazilian Rock
Amianto
Supercombo
Indie, alternative and emocore with emotional lyrics.
2014
Brazilian Rock
Banda do Mar
Banda do Mar
Album of the year at the Prêmio Multishow.
2014
Brazilian Rock
Modehuman
Far From Alaska
Heavy, energetic sound, stoner and alternative metal.
2014
Sertanejo
Ao Vivo em Brasília
Henrique & Juliano
The album that put the duo at the top.
2015
MPB
A Mulher do Fim do Mundo
Elza Soares
Elza reinvented with São Paulo's avant-garde; a Latin Grammy winner.
2015
Brazilian Pop
Bang
Anitta
Funk pop and electronic, with the title track.
2015
Rap and Hip-Hop
Sobre Crianças, Quadris, Pesadelos e Lições de Casa
Emicida
Recorded across Angola, Cape Verde and Brazil.
2015
Brazilian Rock
Fortaleza
Cidadão Instigado
Album of the year at the Prêmio Multishow.
2015
Brazilian Rock
III
Maglore
Alternative rock, MPB and folk.
2015
Brazilian Rock
Manual ou Guia Livre de Dissolução dos Sonhos
Boogarins
Organic psychedelia between rock, pop and MPB.
2015
Brazilian Rock
Éter
Scalene
Intensity and atmosphere; a Latin Grammy winner.
2016
Axé and Bahian Music
Duas Cidades
BaianaSystem
Album of the year at the Prêmio Multishow.
2016
Brazilian Funk
A Danada Sou Eu
Ludmilla
Funk pop with "Bom".
2016
MPB
Anavitória
Anavitória
Debut, with "Trevo (Tu)".
2016
Rap and Hip-Hop
Boogie Naipe
Mano Brown
The soul and funk solo album by Racionais' leader.
2016
Sertanejo
Ao Vivo
Marília Mendonça
The album of "Infiel"; the start of feminejo.
2016
Sertanejo
Ao Vivo em Goiânia
Maiara & Maraisa
The album of "10%" and "Medo Bobo".
2016
Soul and Black Music
Remonta
Liniker
Debut of the band Liniker e os Caramelows.
2017
Axé and Bahian Music
Pirata
BaianaSystem
Guitarra baiana, dub and activism from Salvador.
2017
MPB
Letrux em Noite de Climão
Letrux
Album of the year at the Prêmio Multishow.
2017
MPB
Recomeçar
Tim Bernardes
Solo debut by O Terno's voice.
2017
Brazilian Pop
Vai Passar Mal
Pabllo Vittar
Debut, with "K.O." and "Todo Dia".
2017
Rap and Hip-Hop
Esú
Baco Exu do Blues
Debut by the Bahian rapper.
2017
Rap and Hip-Hop
Galanga Livre
Rincon Sapiência
Rap and Afro-Brazilian rhythms.
2017
Rap and Hip-Hop
Heresia
Djonga
Debut, the first of an album a year.
2017
Brazilian Rock
Continental
Bullet Bane
Aggressive post-hardcore with social lyrics.
2017
Brazilian Rock
Ego Kill Talent
Ego Kill Talent
Members swap instruments; international recognition.
2017
Brazilian Rock
Lá Vem a Morte
Boogarins
Atmospheric psychedelia recalling the 60s and 70s.
2017
Soul and Black Music
Xenia
Xênia França
Solo debut, between R&B and Afro-Bahian roots.
2018
MPB
Casas
Rubel
Folk and MPB with rap and samples.
2018
MPB
Taurina
Anelis Assumpção
Album of the year at the Prêmio Multishow.
2018
Brazilian Pop
Dona de Mim
Iza
Debut, with "Pesadão" and the title track.
2018
Brazilian Pop
Sinto Muito
Duda Beat
Debut of Recife's "sofrência pop".
2018
Rap and Hip-Hop
Bluesman
Baco Exu do Blues
Rap and soul about Blackness; awarded at Cannes Lions with the short film "Bluesman".
2018
Rap and Hip-Hop
Gigantes
BK'
The album that established BK' in Rio rap.
2018
Sertanejo
O Embaixador
Gusttavo Lima
The live album that gave the singer his nickname.
2019
Brazilian Funk
Hello Mundo
Ludmilla
Ludmilla's first live album.
2019
MPB
Little Electric Chicken Heart
Ana Frango Elétrico
Psychedelic pop and MPB.
2019
Brazilian Pop
Kisses
Anitta
Anitta's multilingual album, with tracks in Portuguese, Spanish and English.
2019
Rap and Hip-Hop
Abaixo de Zero: Hello Hell
Black Alien
Album of the year at the Prêmio Multishow.
2019
Rap and Hip-Hop
AmarElo
Emicida
Rap, samba and MPB in dialogue with Black history; a Netflix film.
2019
Rap and Hip-Hop
Ladrão
Djonga
Third album, one a year since "Heresia".
2019
Brazilian Rock
<atrás/além>
O Terno
One of the band's most mature works, about existence and time.
2019
Brazilian Rock
Violeta
Terno Rei
Melancholy, nostalgic indie rock.
2019
Sertanejo
Todos os Cantos
Marília Mendonça
Free concerts across Brazilian capitals; the peak of feminejo.
2020s
2020
Rap and Hip-Hop
Máquina do Tempo
Matuê
The trap album that broke debut records on Spotify Brazil.
2020
Rap and Hip-Hop
O Líder em Movimento
BK'
Rio rap with wide impact.
2020
Samba
Numanice
Ludmilla
The funk star turns to romantic pagode.
2020
Soul and Black Music
Bom Mesmo É Estar Debaixo D'Água
Luedji Luna
Jazz, soul and MPB; released with a film.
2021
Forró
Eu Tenho a Senha
João Gomes
The debut of romantic piseiro.
2021
MPB
De Primeira
Marina Sena
Pop, funk and MPB from Minas that went viral with "Por Supuesto".
2021
Brazilian Pop
Batidão Tropical
Pabllo Vittar
Pabllo revisits the tecnobrega and electronic forró of the North and Northeast.
2021
Brazilian Pop
Doce 22
Luísa Sonza
Contemporary Brazilian pop in many colours.
2021
Brazilian Pop
Gracinha
Manu Gavassi
A visual album with a short film.
2021
Brazilian Pop
Pirata
Jão
The album that took Jão to stadiums.
2022
MPB
Sim Sim Sim
Bala Desejo
Tropicália revisited by Rio's new generation; a Latin Grammy winner.
2022
Brazilian Pop
Lady Leste
Gloria Groove
With "Vermelho" and "A Queda".
2022
Brazilian Pop
Versions of Me
Anitta
The album of the global hit "Envolver".
2022
Rap and Hip-Hop
Quantas Vezes Você Já Foi Amado?
Baco Exu do Blues
Rap about affection and mental health.
2022
Brazilian Rock
Ascensão
Black Pantera
Thrash with lyrics on racism, intolerance and activism.
2022
Soul and Black Music
Indigo Borboleta Anil
Liniker
Soul and MPB; the first trans artist to win a Latin Grammy.
2023
Brazilian Funk
Vilã
Ludmilla
Funk, R&B and pop.
2023
MPB
Vício Inerente
Marina Sena
Second album, after "De Primeira".
2023
Brazilian Pop
Afrodhit
Iza
Second album, with Afro-Brazilian influences.
2023
Brazilian Pop
Escândalo Íntimo
Luísa Sonza
With "Chico"; debut records on Spotify Brazil.
2023
Brazilian Pop
Super
Jão
The album of Jão's stadium tour.
2023
Rap and Hip-Hop
Dos Prédios
Veigh
São Paulo trap at the top of the platforms.
2023
Samba
Xande Canta Caetano
Xande de Pilares
Caetano Veloso's songs in samba.
2023
Sertanejo
Decretos Reais
Marília Mendonça
Recordings released after the singer's death.
2024
Brazilian Funk
Funk Generation
Anitta
Anitta returns to funk carioca for a global audience.
2024
Rap and Hip-Hop
333
Matuê
Matuê's return, four years after "Máquina do Tempo".
2024
Soul and Black Music
Caju
Liniker
Nominated for seven Latin Grammys, including Album of the Year.
2025
Forró
Dominguinho
João Gomes, Mestrinho e Jota.pê
Album of the year at the Prêmio Multishow.