Dating back to the end of the nineteenth century, the most famous rhythm born in Rio de Janeiro is Samba, made even more popular by the internationally renowned carnival celebrations. However, the jazzy Bossa Nova was also created in the city and received lots of international attention since the 1962 hit song 'Garota de Ipanema'. Later, Funk Carioca, born in the favelas of Rio in the 1980's, has become an important and popular expression of local culture.

Samba is a great gem in the musical treasure of the Carioca people, but it is not the only one - a variety of other mixes and tunes bring life the wide array of sentiments and to describe the mesmerizing sides to the personality of this sultry city.

The Carnival is the time for Samba, and Samba is the voice of the Carnival - yet, this unmistakable tune is found around town all year long. Samba is Brazil's national sound, and it has diversified into numerous other rhythms and musical expressions, such as 'Samba do Breque,' a Samba with a very particular pace where the singer might present a new character, make a short humorous monologue or recite a message in the context of the composition.