Wave is a classic Bossa Nova composition by Antonio Carlos Jobim from his 1967 eponymous album.

Visiting my Jazz friend Chris on May 19, 2024. I'm so grateful that Chris also loves this gem of a standard! Now here's the story of the song from Wiki:
"Wave" (also known as "Vou Te Contar" in Portuguese; "I am going to tell you" in English) is a bossa nova and jazz standard song written by Antônio Carlos Jobim. Recorded as an instrumental on his 1967 album of the same name, its English lyrics were written by Jobim himself later that year.[1]
But the version of Sergio Mendes & Brasil '66 is the first release of the tune, sung by Lani Hall with Mendes on their second album, Equinox, in 1967.
The English lyrics were used on the February 11, 1969, recording by Frank Sinatra, on his 1970 album Sinatra & Company.[2] They were also used by Johnny Mathis in his 1970 Close to You album.
The song was voted by the Brazilian edition of Rolling Stone to be the 73rd greatest Brazilian song.[3]
According to The Jazz Discography by Tom Lord, the song has been recorded nearly 500 times by jazz artists.[
From Oldtimemusic.com:
"Antonio Carlos Jobim, also known as Tom Jobim, has left an indelible mark on the world of music with his enchanting melodies and poetic lyrics. One of his most iconic compositions is the beautiful and evocative song “Wave” (Vou Te Contar). Released in 1967, the song has captivated listeners with its soothing harmonies and lyrical depth. Let’s delve into the meaning behind this timeless masterpiece...
The Melody that Mimics the Ocean’s Rhythm
“Wave” opens with a gentle guitar arpeggio that immediately transports the listener to the shores of Brazil. The melody’s undulating lines evoke the ebb and flow of the ocean, creating a sense of tranquility and freedom. Jobim’s composition mirrors the cyclical nature of life itself, as he weaves together moments of lightness and melancholy in the midst of changing tides.
A Celebration of Love and Nature
At its core, “Wave” is a love song that pays homage to the beauty of both human relationships and the natural world. Jobim’s lyrics express a profound appreciation for the transformative power of love. The song illuminates the joy and vulnerability inherent in giving oneself completely to another person. It portrays love as a force that can engulf and encompass everything, much like the ocean that extends infinitely beyond the horizon.
Reflecting on Transience and Impermanence
Beyond its romantic essence, “Wave” also carries a contemplative undertone that reflects on the passage of time and the impermanence of life. Jobim’s words encourage us to embrace the fleeting moments and cherish them amidst the constant state of change. The lyrics speak of the transitory nature of feelings, urging us to revel in love’s highs and gracefully accept its eventual departures.
10 Frequently Asked Questions about “Wave” (Vou Te Contar)
1. What inspired Antonio Carlos Jobim to write “Wave”?
The inspiration for “Wave” came from Jobim’s love affair with the natural beauty of Brazil, especially the beach and the ocean. He often spent time contemplating the waves and translating their rhythm into musical compositions. "