The Portuguese language is beautiful, with a flow that works exceptionally well in music. Many famous Portuguese musicians utilize the language to craft emotion-provoking tunes that experience play after play due to their popularity.
However, deciphering the meanings and finding the best Portuguese songs can be challenging for those who don’t speak the language. To help expand your musical understanding, here’s some famous Portuguese songs to add to your playlist.
1. “Uma Casa Portuguesa” by Amália Rodrigues
Song Year: 1958
This is a classic song by renowned musical artist Amália Rodrigues. Within the lyrics, the artist describes the hospitality of the Portuguese people and how they can make do with very little but have fulfilling lives that feel as if they are not lacking.
When this song was released in 1958, it was on a vinyl record of the same name. The album and tune quickly shot to the top of all regional charts and continue to be a household name and song in Portuguese-speaking homes.
2. “Ó Gente Da Minha Terra” by Mariza
Song Year: 2001
While the song “Ó Gente Da Minha Terra” was initially released in 2001, it saw a massive burst in popularity with the movie “Fados,” which came out in theaters in 2007. Although most people associate the tune with the movie, it sees a lot of play online and on the radio due to its popularity and incredible lyrics.
Fado references those central to the Portuguese region and language as a type of folk song. The lyrics of this hit emphasize the shared experience of pain and its ability to unite people regardless of background.
3. “Pimba, Pimba” by Emanuel
Song Year: 1995
The song’s title, which artist Emanuel released in 1995, introduced a new genre of music into the Portuguese scene. The beat is fun with a combination of folk and uptempo, and the message typically resonates with its listeners.
“Pimba, Pimba” speaks to the men of the world. The lyrics tell them to honor and cherish the women in their lives as they serve great importance to everyone. The love they give to everyone needs to be returned, and it’s the man’s job to ensure that they are taken care of in every way possible.
4. “Amar Pelos Dois” by Salvador Sobral
Song Year: 2017
This unique tune combines several genres, including jazz, pop, and ballads. As a classic love song, “Amar Pelos Dois” talks about how the person he was before meeting the love of his life was nowhere near the person he is today.
Unfortunately, the song continues to reflect on a breakup. The artist holds onto the hope that the two will be able to come together once again. Salvador Sobral was the winner of the Eurovision Song Contest in 2017, and this song is what gave him the advantage in the contest.
5. “Ai Se Eu Te Pego!” By Michel Teló
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hcm55lU9knw
Song Year: 2011
The song “Ai Se Eu Te Pego!” by Michel Teló is featured on the album, “Na Balada.” Despite being categorized as electronica and dance, it is popular among all age groups.
The lyrics express a person’s intense feelings for someone they have not yet been able to connect with, despite their efforts. The yearning to be with this person is consuming, yet they understand that they are not aware of the depth of their emotions.
Nevertheless, the hope for the immediate future is to locate and make them their own. The lyrics evoke an emotional and raw sentiment that showcases the power of human connection and the importance of seizing the moment. The artist’s poetic and creative expression captivates listeners, drawing them into this intimate and passionate experience.
6. “Lisboa Menina e Moca” by Carlos Do Carmo
Song Year: 1976
In 1976 Carlos Do Carmo released his song “Lisboa Menina e Moca,” which took the world by storm. Even today, the song comes up at parties, gatherings, or even just when relaxing in the evenings.
This musical hit references the love the singer has for a woman. It details their time together, going to great lengths to highlight the exact nuances of the bedding they laid in, the setting in which they spent time together, and how others responded to her beauty and demeanor.
7. “Vou Deixar” by Lima
Song Year: 2008
Allow yourself to be transported to a world of intrigue with Paula Lima’s iconic song, “Vou Deixar.” This masterpiece by the acclaimed Portuguese musician sets the scene of a fateful encounter between two strangers. The songstress finds herself captivated by a man across the room, and at that moment, a thousand questions flood her mind.
She ponders his character, treatment of women, and overall demeanor. “Vou Deixar” was first released in 2008 and quickly became a chart-topper. Its infectious beat and soaring vocals continue to mesmerize listeners to this day. Prepare to be entranced, as this song is sure to leave you hitting repeat over and over again.
8. “Burguesinha” by Seu Jorge
Song Year: 2007
One thing that makes this song stand out is its unique combination of pop and samba. The background instruments will have you dancing around the second the music starts. “Burguesinha” tells a story of a man hanging with his friends at a dance club.
He sets his sights on a woman in the room. From there, his whole plan for the night changes. Seu Jorge brought this song to the radio in 2007. You can find it on the album “America Brasil: O Disco.”
9. “Dialectos da Ternura” by Da Weasel
Song Year: 2007
This energetic song combines different music genres, including pop, reggae, hip-hop, and rap. The unique additions of the reggae instruments put an eclectic spin on the music, making it trendy and catchy.
Released in 2007 on Da Weasel’s album “Amor, Escárnio e Maldizer,” the song quickly rose in the rankings. It brought a lot of attention to the different elements that it incorporates. This one is a must-have for those looking to find new Portuguese hits to add to a playlist.
10. “Espera” by Fernando Daniel
Song Year: 2018
Knowing that your past precedes you can be a hard pill to swallow, especially if it comes up in new relationships. This song by Fernando Daniel is from his album “Salto” and talks about this exact situation.
The pain of having a problematic past can haunt you, and proving that you are no longer that person can be challenging.
Released in 2018, “Espera” has struck a chord with many individuals in comparable circumstances. The message of hope within the lyrics has provided these individuals with renewed expectations for their prospects.
11. “Os Búzios” by Ana Moura
Song Year: 2007
From the 2007 album “Para Além da Saudade,” the song “Os Búzios” by Ana Moura is a story about the complexities of love and all the elements that go on behind the scenes to make relationships successful.
In the end, Moura wants everyone to know that even when times feel hopeless about any type of love being in the mix, remember that there’s a more vital force that will love you for eternity. While you cannot see him, he walks alongside you every day.
12. “Ai Se Ele Cai” by Xutos & Pontapés
Song Year: 2004
You will love this tune if you’re looking for an excellent Portuguese rock song to add to your music rotation. Released in 2004, this song brings all the traditional elements of a classic rock song with a Portuguese flair.
From the group’s album “Mundo ao Contrário,” the song gives insight into a person’s day when they can’t get that particular person out of their mind. Going through the mindless tasks of the workday, they can’t help but be distracted by thoughts of the one they love and cherish.
13. “Zumbi” by Ben Jor
Song Year: 1974
As a song from 1974, this rock and samba combo talks about the struggles that took place during times of slavery.
It also touches on how those victims of the period overcame the challenges. “Zumbi” is an anthem for many, and Jorge Ben Jor has been applauded for decades for taking this stand in his music.
You can find this song on the album “A Tábua de Esmeralda” and listen to the story for yourself. When it comes to Portuguese music, this is a must-have on your playlist.
14. “Tudo Muda” by Dengaz
Song Year: 2016
On the album “Passa A Outro E Não Ao Mesmo,” released in 2016, you will find a gem of a song titled “Tudo Muda.” The musical artist Dengaz created this music, and it has quickly become one of the most famous Portuguese songs.
This song includes guest artists Di Noise and Ruben Matay. Not only will you hear this song on radio and albums, but it’s a frequent guest on commercials. The overwhelming theme you will get from this hit song is that you need to slow down and enjoy what life gives you instead of rushing through every day.
15. “Seus Planos” by Sangalo
Song Year: 2016
This beautiful acoustic song by Ivete Sangalo gives a refreshing sound to your Portuguese playlist. Released in 2016 on the artist’s album “Acústico em Trancoso, Pt. 1,” the song brings a tale of a woman who wants love to continue forever, especially when it feels like it does for her in this current season of life.
Ivete Sangalo desires to uphold all the activities and traditions shared with her partner and is dedicated to maintaining their connection. The song’s captivating melody and poignant lyrics are poised to resonate deeply with those who listen, potentially making them new enthusiasts of the artist’s work.
16. “Sozinho” by Caetano Veloso
Song Year: 1998
Back in 1998, Caetano Veloso released his hit song by the name of “Sozinho.” This song would grace the charts for many years, being referred to as a classic by multiple generations. From his album “Prenda Minha,” this pop and jazz music collaboration brings a soulful approach to audiences.
The song presents a narrative of shattered love and the resulting emotional distress. Coping with the loss of everything one has known can be challenging. There is a struggle to move forward amidst the persistent memories and feelings of isolation. The past holds a significant portion of what matters, which makes it harder to let go.
17. “As Coisas” by Valas
Song Year: 2018
If you are looking for more modern songs to add to your repertoire, you will love the feel and groove of “As Coisas” by the artist Valas. Off of his album “Check-in,” the song brings to light the mind trap that love can play on a person.
When you find yourself in a close-knit relationship, you are entirely enamored and engaged in your actions and have less to do with the outside world.
Having so much emotion invested in another person can take your breath away, and Valas does an excellent job of portraying this sentiment to listeners.
18. “A Cabritinha” by Quim Barreiros
Song Year: 2004
As one of the best Portuguese songs to date, this tune by Quim Barreiros is one that listeners won’t easily forget. “A Cabritinha” is a blend of pop, Pimba, and forro music that combines various elements for a top hit.
Since its release in 2004, the song has captivated listeners with its lyrics. With a bizarre story, the song artist talks about his mother being unable to breastfeed him. Therefore, growing up, he was forced to fight alternative eating methods, leading to similar actions in his adult years.
19. “Eu Tenho Dois Amores” by Marco Paulo
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CAEqPqJqpCM
Song Year: 1982
This particular tune is commonly played at roller skating rinks. Its lively and energetic melody evokes a positive response from listeners, motivating them to stand up and move their bodies to the beat.
Released in 1982, “Eu Tenho Dois Amores” by Marco Paulo talks about the struggle of being interested in two different individuals romantically.
While one of the two women is great, she doesn’t have the characteristics the musician’s mother would prefer. However, the elements that the singer enjoys don’t match his parents’ list. It’s a difficult choice but one that he must make.
20. “A Nossa Vez” by Calema
Song Year: 2017
From the album “A.N.V.” comes the song “A Nossa Vez” but singer Calema. A pop song, its release in 2017, brought a lot of attention to radio listeners, and it quickly started to show up on music charts worldwide.
Another one of the famous Portuguese songs about love, the lyrics of this tune are relevant to many people’s lives today. Many want to be with a person, travel the world with them, and be solely in their company.
This mentality is especially true at the start of a new relationship. While the emotion tends to wane over time, the happiness and bliss that fulfills those first few months is pure joy.
21. “CASA” by D.A.M.A.
Song Year: 2022
With its fresh take on the music scene, “CASA” stands out as one of the best Portuguese songs on this list. Although it only recently hit the airwaves in 2022, the artist D.A.M.A. has been making waves for quite some time. This tune offers a unique perspective on what is happening in music today, and it’s clear that D.A.M.A. knows how to stay relevant.
With a sound that is both fresh and contemporary, “CASA” is a must-listen for anyone looking for new and exciting music.
This song provides a powerful message to listeners from the album of the same name. At the end of the day, love is a powerful tool. The artist states that despite any shortcomings that may come their way, he would still do everything in his power to be with the one he loves and to marry her, being with her forever.
22. “Trevo (Tu)” by Anavitória
Song Year: 2016
If your goal in this guide is to find the most famous Portuguese songs, you have accomplished that feat with this song.“ “Trevo (Tu)” by Anavitória is a Latin Grammy Award winner under the Best Portuguese Language Song category. You can’t find another of the best Portuguese songs to top that, can you?
This hugely popular song describes how a person in love can feel the emotion of luck. While many portray the term as meaning various things, it can also describe the mundane and routine activities that go on every day, which we take for granted.
23. “Saia Da Carolina” by Carolina Deslandes
Song Year: 2023
As one of the newest songs to hold a spot on this list of famous Portuguese songs, “Saia Da Carolina” is a powerful song that gives women a new mentality to consider. While many traditional roles are bestowed upon females, this song speaks to pushing back on those societal expectations.
From her album “CAOS,” this hit is trending as one of the best Portuguese songs among all ages. The artist, Carolina Deslandes, was a finalist on Idolos Portugal in 2010 and has gone on to write and sing to great success ever since.
Best Portuguese Songs, Final Thoughts
Some of the most famous Portuguese songs come from decades ago but are still high on the popularity charts due to their impressive lyrics and beautiful music. If finding the best Portuguese songs to expand your musical palette is on your to-do list, this guide will help you to find the most suitable choices.