As far as I know, there is no guide or tour to Bossa Nova places in Rio de Janeiro. In fact, Bossa Nova is not as popular as it used to be in 1960s. Nowadays, other rhythms took over, such as samba (Rio’s most popular and heard rhythm), choro, forro, Brazilian funk, and Brazilian country music.
Only a minority of young Cariocas (natives of Rio) listen to, buy CDs, download, or attend a concert of live Bossa Nova. It is just not a cool thing to do anymore, although usually older and more musically educated people still it.
The majority of Brazilians (most young) prefer the liver, fun-to-watch, and mass-rhythms mentioned above, which usually involve some sort of dancing (except choro).
Most Bossa Nova halls in Rio de Janeiro have shut down along the decades, and some of the places recommended on the Internet no longer exist. To get an updated listing of Rio’s nightlife venues (including where to hear live Bossa Nova, admission fees, schedule, etc) get a copy of My Rio Travel Guide, the most updated and informative travel guide to Rio de Janeiro.
As there are very few Bossa Nova places in Rio (basically only one — touristy), there is no such a thing as Bossa Nova tour either. However, you could definitely take a samba private tour and hear several live bands at the different venues in one single night — sort of samba concert hoping.
Although My Rio Travel Guide is not a book specialized in Bossa Nova, it does present the relevant information you need to visit Rio de Janeiro and to have a great time in the city, regardless of your musical interests.
Click below to learn more about this guide!
