"Meditation" (Meditação) is a bossa nova classic composed by Antonio Carlos Jobim, with Portuguese lyrics by Newton Mendonça and English lyrics by Norman Gimbel. Written around 1960, it was first recorded by Jobim himself on his 1961 album The Composer of Desafinado, Plays.
The tune follows an AABA form in the key of C major. The A sections begin on a C6 chord and unfold through characteristically Jobim-esque chromatic harmonic movement, incorporating II-V progressions with subtle voice-leading. The melody is gentle and introspective, carried by the understated syncopation of the bossa nova rhythm, while the bridge moves into minor tonality for emotional contrast. Despite the relaxed tempo, the rich harmonic palette demands sensitive chord voicing and a refined sense of harmony from soloists, making it a favorite among jazz guitarists and pianists alike.
Essential recordings include João Gilberto's intimate guitar-and-voice rendition on O Amor, O Sorriso e a Flor (1960), as well as interpretations by guitarists Charlie Byrd and Joe Pass. Frank Sinatra's collaboration with Jobim brought the English-language version to a worldwide audience.
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