ZAZUEIRA

Elis Regina Carvalho Costa, known simply as Elis Regina (March 17, 1945 – January 19, 1982) was one of the most accomplished and acclaimed Brazilian singers of her time.

In 1969, she made arguably her best record, Elis Regina in London. The amazing thing about this recording is that English musicians' union regulations required them to perform with Elis singing -- not with her adding her track to theirs. The producers had only met her a few days before, having planned the session after an earlier tour Elis had made to Europe. Elis' skills enabled them to record this album -- orchestra and Elis singing together -- in one day.

The LP features wonderful arrangements conducted by Peter Knight (who also did Moody Blues' "Days of Future Passed"). The fact that she could fly over to London and put together an LP with supremely talented musicians in only one day (two half-day sessions) is proof of their stellar talents.

Below, the classic track "Zazueira" with some brilliant piano work by Antonio Adolfo.