Stars such as the Rolling Stones, Rod Stewart, the Black Eyed Peas, Lenny Kravitz, David Guetta, Stevie Wonder, and Roberto Carlos have all performed at free concerts on Copacabana or Ipanema beach - gathering huge crowds and enjoying spectacular success. Every new year's eve, a variety of free concerts are organized in several locations across Rio de Janeiro, welcoming both performers and audiences from all over the world.

Local, national, or international singers and musicians, are always given much respect and attention - several important streets, avenues and parks in Rio de Janeiro are named after Carioca musical leaders, who are highly regarded as legends and inspirations.

Antonio Carlos Jobim, writer of 'Garota de Ipanema,' possibly the most world-famous song composed in the city, is revered by welcoming every visitor in and out of Rio de Janeiro's territory, as the local international airport is named after him. One of the most traditional streets in the landmark district of Ipanema is named in honor of Vinícius de Moraes, co-author of the same song.