Marcos Kostenbader Valle, born on September 14, 1943, in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, is a renowned Brazilian singer, musician, songwriter, and record producer. Valle is celebrated for his significant contributions to various musical styles, including bossa nova, samba, and the fusion of rock, soul, jazz, and dance music with Brazilian influences. His career, which began in 1963, spans several decades, marking him as a pivotal figure in Brazilian pop music.

Valle's musical journey started in his childhood, influenced by classical music and jazz. He began playing piano at the age of five and continued his studies for thirteen years. His early compositions, often in collaboration with his brother Paulo Sérgio Valle, gained recognition during the bossa nova movement in Rio de Janeiro. His debut album, "Samba Demais," was released in 1963, followed by "O Compositor e o Cantor" in 1965, which included the hit "Samba de Verão" (known as "So Nice (Summer Samba)" in English), a song that became one of the most covered in Brazilian music history.

Throughout his career, Valle has been associated with labels such as Odeon, EMI, and Far Out. He gained international acclaim with albums like "Samba '68," which introduced his music to American audiences. During the 1970s, Valle's music evolved to incorporate more complex themes and styles, reflecting the political climate in Brazil under military dictatorship. His work during this period included albums like "Garra" and contributions to the Black Power movement with tracks like "Black Is Beautiful."

In the 1980s, Valle continued to innovate with albums such as "Vontade De Rever Você," which showcased a blend of boogie-funk samba. After a hiatus from recording, he returned in the late 1990s with "Nova Bossa Nova" and continued to release music into the 21st century, including collaborations with artists like British jazz vocalist Stacey Kent.

Valle's influence extends beyond Brazil, and he remains a significant figure in the global music scene, celebrated for his ability to transcend traditional boundaries while maintaining the essence of Brazilian music.