2001

Belonging to the first wave of bossa nova musicians, composer of such classics as "Manhã de Carnaval" and "Samba do Orfeu" (both with Antônio Maria), Bonfá was a self-taught guitar player till he turned 12 and started taking lessons on classic guitar with Uruguayan Isaias Savio. During the 40s, he performed on radio shows and joined groups like Quitandinha Serenaders, before finally starting off as a solo guitarist. Bonfá stood out as a composer, and his first hits were recorded in 1953. The play "Orfeu da Conceição", by Vinícius de Moraes, was a milestone in his career, as he played the songs for its LP and later wrote some of the tracks for Marcel Camus’ movie ("Orfeu do Carnaval"), based on the play. He performed at the Carnegie Hall Bossa Nova Festival, in 1962, living in the States from 1964 to 1966, and then again in the 70s, always enjoying respect as a fine composer and splendid guitarist. One of Bonfá’s trademarks is his large use of open chords, conferring a magnificent sound to his guitar. He went through the music festival routines in 1966, ’67 and ’68. In the 70s, he turned toward jazz, working with producer Eumir Deodato and with percussionist Dom Um Romão. He made albums in the USA that have not been released in Brazil. Bonfá started recording in Brazil again by the late 80s and in the 90s, releasing successful albums. He has worked with singer Ithamara Koorax, with whom he put out the CD "Almost in Love/The Luiz Bonfá Songbook", in 1997. "Almost in Love", written by Luiz Bonfá, is the only Brazilian song ever recorded by Elvis Presley. Sarah Vaughan, George Benson, Tony Bennett and Julio Iglesias are some of the other performers who have sang Bonfá’s songs. His hit-list includes "De Cigarro em Cigarro", "Correnteza", "The Gentle Rain", "Menina Flor", "Mania de Maria" and "Sem Esse Céu".