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In an exclusive interview, Bebel shares insights into how her work honors her family’s profound influence on Brazilian music while innovating within the genre. Her ability to blend tradition with modernity underscores the timeless appeal of bossa nova and highlights the power of personal expression in music. ML: Can you share how your father’s legacy, as well as the contributions of your mother, Miúcha, and your uncle, Chico Buarque, have influenced the way you approach your music? Music has always been a part of my life, growing up surrounded by musicians like my father and uncle. I began working with my mother on jingles and background vocals, and with my father and uncle, I gained valuable experience from a young age. Music truly resonates with me, and I have definitely been influenced by my father’s music, as well as my mother’s voice and my uncle’s inspiration. My knowledge of harmony and taste have developed through years of practice. ML: Did you ever feel pressure to follow a particular path from your family, or did you always have the freedom to explore your own music? Not at all. ML: You beautifully blend traditional bossa nova with modern genres like electronic and jazz. How did this musical style come to be? Since I moved to New York, I’ve been listening to more electronic music from artists like Everything But the Girl, Björk, and Lindsey. I also met Tate, who introduced me to a blend of tech and bossa nova. This inspired me to start finding my own style. ML: What emotions surfaced for you during the creation of JOÃO, and in what ways did the album provide emotional healing or growth? I have two projects to share with you. The first is my album, which was released during the pandemic. It was a difficult time for me as I was trying to take care of my father, who had always taken care of me. Many of the songs on the album reflect this experience. The second project is João, which I worked on after my father passed away. It was a healing process for me, and I’m extremely happy with the results. I also had the opportunity to take his music around the world, playing in 22 countries. It was an unforgettable experience. ML: What key themes did you aim to convey in JOÃO, and how did the production process differ from your previous albums? I couldn’t not play some of the most famous songs such as desafinado and a valsa. For