Roberto Menescal, born on October 25, 1937, in Brazil, is a renowned composer, guitarist, and a pivotal figure in the bossa nova genre. His career began in the 1950s, and he has been active ever since as a musician, composer, record producer, arranger, and label owner. Menescal is celebrated for his iconic composition "O Barquinho" ("Little Boat") and his collaborations with artists like Carlos Lyra, Nara Leão, and Wanda Sá. In 1957, he worked as a sideman for Sylvia Telles and later co-founded a guitar school with Carlos Lyra. He was instrumental in spreading bossa nova through performances and concerts, including the historic 1962 Bossa Nova Festival at Carnegie Hall alongside Antonio Carlos Jobim and João Gilberto.

Throughout the 1960s, Menescal worked as an arranger and producer for PolyGram, collaborating with Brazilian music legends such as Maria Bethânia and Caetano Veloso. He also composed music for films and television. In the 1980s, he focused on his solo career, recording with jazz saxophonist Joe Henderson. Menescal is the owner of the record label Albatroz and has an extensive discography that includes albums like "A Bossa Nova" (1963) and "Bossa Evergreen" (2000).

Menescal's contributions to music have been recognized with a Latin Grammy nomination in 2002 and the Latin Recording Academy Special Awards in 2013. As of 2025, he continues to perform and create music, maintaining a vibrant presence in the Brazilian music scene.