Lisa Ono

Lisa Ono ranks among Japan's foremost interpreters of modern bossa nova. Working as a singer, acoustic guitarist, and songwriter, she has seen her recordings issued around the world. Through 2000 she completed a dozen albums—Catupiry (1989), Nanã (1990), Menina (1991), Serenata Carioca (1992), Namorada (1993), Esperança (1994), Minha Saudade (1995), Rio Bossa (1996), Essência (1997), Bossa Carioca (1998), Dream (1999), and Pretty World (2000)—each featuring guest contributions from leading figures such as Tom Jobim, Sivuca, Paulo Moura, Danilo Caymmi, and Toots Thielemans. After spending her first ten years in Brazil, she drew on her father's industry ties; he ran a São Paulo nightclub and managed Baden Powell. Upon returning to Japan he launched the Saci Pererê club, where she began presenting the Brazilian songbook, with special emphasis on samba and bossa nova. She later established the Nanã label to advance Brazilian music throughout Japan.