Sergio Mendes, the Brazilian musician who captivated audiences worldwide with his unique blend of bossa nova and pop, died at 83. The legendary pianist and bandleader passed away at his home in Los Angeles, California, on September 5, 2024.
Mendes’s family announced in a statement that he died peacefully at his residence in Los Angeles. They mentioned that his spouse and musical collaborator of 54 years, Gracinha Leporace Mendes, was present at the time of his passing, along with his children.
The family noted that Mendes’s final performances took place in November 2023, where he played to full, enthusiastic audiences in Paris, London, and Barcelona. They also revealed that in the months leading up to his death, Mendes had been struggling with health issues related to long-term COVID-19 effects.
Born in Niterói, Brazil, in 1941, Mendes began his musical journey in the late 1950s, playing in Rio de Janeiro nightclubs as the bossa nova movement was gaining momentum. Mentored by bossa nova legend Antônio Carlos Jobim, Mendes quickly established himself as a prominent figure in the Brazilian music scene.
In 1962, Mendes’s talent caught the attention of international audiences when he performed at the famous Bossa Nova Festival at Carnegie Hall in New York City—this pivotal moment in his career led to collaborations with jazz luminaries such as Cannonball Adderley and Herbie Mann.
Two years after his Carnegie Hall debut, Mendes boldly decided to move to California, where he would create the sound that would define his career. He formed the group Brasil ’66, signing with A&M Records. The band’s unique fusion of Brazilian rhythms and American pop sensibilities catapulted them to international stardom.
Brasil ’66’s breakthrough came with their rendition of Jorge Ben’s “Mas Que Nada,” which became Mendes’s signature song. The group went on to produce numerous hits, including their version of The Beatles’ “The Fool on the Hill” and Burt Bacharach’s “The Look of Love.”
Mendes once said in an interview that he viewed “Mas Que Nada” as a divine blessing. He said the song had been instrumental in introducing Brazilian music to global audiences, effectively creating opportunities for the genre worldwide.
Throughout his seven-decade career, Mendes continuously evolved his sound, collaborating with various artists across genres. In the 1980s, he contributed to the James Bond franchise, working on the title song for “Never Say Never Again.”
The new millennium saw Mendes partnering with contemporary artists, including a notable collaboration with The Black Eyed Peas in 2006, reimagining “Mas Que Nada” for a new generation.
Mendes’s contributions to music earned him numerous accolades, including three Grammy Awards. In 2012, he received an Oscar nomination for “Real in Rio,” a song he co-wrote with Carlinhos Brown and Siedah Garrett for the animated film “Rio.”
Despite his international success, Mendes remained deeply connected to his Brazilian roots. He often spoke about the importance of sharing his culture with the world through music.
Mendes’s final studio album, “In the Key of Joy,” was released in 2020. It features collaborations with contemporary artists and showcases his enduring creativity.
American musician Herb Alpert, who played a crucial role in launching Mendes’ international career, expressed a deep familial-like connection with Mendes, referring to him as siblings from different nations. Alpert shared a heartfelt tribute on Instagram, accompanied by a photograph of them in a recording studio.
In his message, Alpert praised Mendes’ genuine friendship and exceptional musical talent, highlighting Mendes’ significant contribution in introducing the various forms of Brazilian music to global audiences with a sense of grace and happiness.
As news of Mendes’ death circulated in Brazil, his homeland, other prominent Brazilian musicians offered their respects and remembrances.
Milton Nascimento, a legendary singer, shared a touching message on Instagram, expressing his wish for Mendes to find peace and referring to him as a beloved genius. Nascimento reflected on their long-standing friendship and musical collaborations and assured that Mendes would remain forever in his heart.
Singer-songwriter Marcos Valle remembered Mendes as a trailblazer in the bossa nova subgenre of samba jazz during the 1960s. Valle emphasized Mendes’ role as a representative of Brazilian popular music in diverse forms.
Mendes is survived by his wife Gracinha and their five children. His family has announced that a celebration of his life and music will be held in the coming weeks, with details to be shared at a later date.
