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Brazilian guitarist and composer, pivotal figure in Bossa Nova movementLuiz Bonfá rose to international fame through his compositions for the film 'Black Orpheus' (1959). A self-taught guitarist who later studied classical technique, he blended samba with jazz influences, creating enduring standards like 'Manhã de Carnaval'. Though less globally recognized than contemporaries like Jobim, his sophisticated harmonies and distinctive guitar style significantly shaped Brazilian popular music.

• Bonfá's 'Manhã de Carnaval' became one of the most recorded Brazilian songs globally, featured in over 400 films including 'Swept Away' and '12 Monkeys'
• He maintained a low profile despite fame, refusing lucrative US contracts to remain in Rio de Janeiro near family
• In later years, he battled kidney cancer but continued composing until his death at age 78
• His 1972 album 'Jacarandá' was rediscovered decades later, sparking renewed critical acclaim