DESAFINADO - Free Jazz Leadsheet

desafinado, sometimes known as "off-key," was composed by Antonio Carlos Jobim with lyrics by Newton Mendonça in 1958. The song captures the subtle tension between imperfection and beauty, reflecting the bossa nova style's gentle swing and syncopation.

The first recording was made in 1959 by João Gilberto in Rio de Janeiro, bringing the soft, understated vocals and delicate guitar phrasing that would define the genre. Its understated rhythmic shifts and melodic contours allowed it to stand out in small ensemble settings.

Subsequent notable recordings include versions by Stan Getz and Charlie Byrd, as well as Ella Fitzgerald, who brought the tune to international jazz audiences. The song's lyrical theme revolves around love that is slightly out of tune yet still profoundly expressive, making it a favorite for both dancers and listeners who appreciate subtle harmonic interplay.