OLDIES SUNDAY: Lord Hummingbird – Teenage Bossa Nova Girl (1963)

Music has always been the topic of discussion, and with it has brought on numerous trends and movements. Many individuals have stepped up to make their contributions, becoming a part of History in the process. For today’s Oldies Sunday selection, we go back a few decades, and to the twin Island of Trinidad and Tobago to check out Albert Ribeiro a.k.a. Lord Hummingbird and his Orchestra for the track, “Teenage Bossa Nova Girl“.

“Teenage Bossa Nova Girl” was released through Hummingbird Records in 1963, Lord Hummingbird shared his observations sparked by the rapid growth of the “Bossa Nova” musical movement, especially with the youth. It was encouraged to dance to the “Bossa Nova” sound, and the new sound was like nothing being played out there. Originated in Brazil in the 1950s, “Bossa Nova” is described as a relaxed style of Samba Music that blended harmonies, Classicial Guitar, Drums and Percussion, making it an extension of the Samba sound. Thanks to a few Musicians and the Film “Black Orpheus“, “Bossa Nova” created waves in South America, eventually taking over more territories, influencing generations of Musicians. Hummingbird, a Calypsonian Artist, tapped into the “Bossa Nova” sound, and made it a part of his overall sound, making him a dominant force.

“Teenage Bossa Nova Girl” quickly became a hit for Hummingbird, and helped to bring his name to more parts of the world. For those still here, Albert Ribeiro is the Grandfather of Alfonso Ribeiro, Actor and Dancer most famously known for his role as Carlton Banks in “The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air“. He is currently the main Host of “Dancing With The Stars“.

Not much is known about Lord Hummingbird, but since the release of “Teenage Bossa Nova Girl”, Lord Hummingbird went on to release more music. “Teenage Bossa Nova Girl” remains his most well-known release.