Srgio Mendes, the revered Brazilian bossa nova and jazz musician, has passed away at the age of 83. A statement from his family confirmed that Mendes died peacefully on September 5, surrounded by loved ones, including his wife, Gracinha Leporace Mendes, and children. The family indicated that Mendes had been struggling with long-term health issues due to COVID-19, though an official cause of death has not been disclosed.
Born on February 11, 1941, in Niterói, Brazil, Mendes was instrumental in bringing bossa nova music to international audiences. His most famous composition, "Mas Que Nada," is credited with helping globalize the genre from the 1960s onward. Over a sixty-year career, he released more than 30 albums, achieved three Grammy Awards, and was nominated for an Academy Award in 2012 for co-writing the song "Real in Rio" from the animated film Rio.
Mendes began his musical journey by studying classical piano before diving into the jazz scene in Rio during the 1950s. He formed the band Sexeto Bossa Rio and released his debut album, Dance Moderno, in 1961. After moving to Los Angeles, he formed Brasil '65, which later became Brasil '66, achieving commercial success with the hit "Mas Que Nada." In 2006, Mendes re-recorded the classic with the Black Eyed Peas, introducing the song to a new generation.
His influence extended beyond traditional bossa nova, with samples of his works appearing in underground rap scenes in the 2000s, leading to a resurgence in his popularity with the album Timeless. Mendes last performed in November 2023, selling out venues across major European cities including Paris and London.
Funeral and memorial service details will be shared by the family in due course.