Brazilian musical icon Milton Nascimento and his collaborator Esperanza Spalding recently had a rare Tiny Desk concert, making an exception due to Nascimento's difficulty in traveling out of Brazil at 81 years old. Nascimento's career spans over 60 years with more than 40 albums, despite his voice having changed, there's an essence that remains revered by many. Nascimento, born in Rio de Janeiro, has won five Grammy Awards, notably for Best World Music Album in 1998.

Growing up with music, Nascimento's interest sparked early thanks to his mother who studied under Villa Lobos. His compositions include hits like "Maria, Maria" and "Travessia." Internationally, Nascimento gained acclaim for his collaboration with jazz saxophonist Wayne Shorter, opening doors to work with artists like Paul Simon, Sarah Vaughan, and Duran Duran. He even starred in a musical theater piece paying homage to Brazilian poets.

Nascimento's Tiny Desk concert showcased his timeless talent and deep influence on music, capturing the essence of his storied career that transcends cultural and generational boundaries.