The Girl From Ipanema
Benny Goodman · Other Songs - Benny Goodman
The girl from Ipanema goes walking
And when she passes, each one she passes goes - ah
When she walks, she's like a samba
That swings so cool and sways so gentle
That when she passes, each one she passes goes - ah
(Ooh) But he watch her so sadly
How can he tell her he loves her
Yes I would give my heart gladly
But each day, that she walks to the sea
She looks straight ahead, not at he
Tall, (and) tan, (and) young, (and) lovely
The girl from Ipanema goes walking
And when she passes, he smile - but she doesn't see
(Doesn't see)
(She just doesn't see, she never sees him)
The Girl From Ipanema - Benny Goodman
Benny Goodman's recording of 'The Girl From Ipanema' stands as a pivotal moment in jazz history, marking his first major collaboration with the Brazilian bossa nova group The Bossa Nova Boys. While Goodman is renowned for his virtuoso swing and leadership of the American jazz band, this track represents a significant shift toward a softer, more intimate sound influenced by the Brazilian genre. The recording captures a unique fusion of styles, blending Goodman's characteristic clarinet work with the gentle rhythms and melodic sensibilities of bossa nova. Released in 1964, the track became an instant international hit, introducing the world to the emerging bossa nova sound and influencing countless musicians across genres. It remains a definitive example of cross-cultural musical exchange and showcases Goodman's remarkable adaptability beyond his traditional big band repertoire.