What was one of João Gilberto's contributions to music?

João Gilberto is widely celebrated for his unique vocal style, which played a pivotal role in the development of bossa nova, a genre that blends samba and jazz elements within Brazilian music. His soft, intimate singing approach, often characterized by the use of syncopation and subtle phrasing, not only distinguished his voice but also influenced countless musicians across various genres. This vocal style, paired with his innovative guitar playing, helped shape the sound of bossa nova and brought Brazilian music to a global audience, making him a key figure in its history. His contributions in this area are particularly significant, as they helped to redefine and elevate the role of the vocalist in Brazilian popular music.