Sérgio Mendes, the celebrated Brazilian musician known for his pivotal role in popularizing bossa nova music worldwide, passed away on September 5 in Los Angeles. He was 83 years old. Mendes's family confirmed the news through a statement on his official Facebook page, noting that he died peacefully with his wife, Gracinha Leporace Mendes, and their children by his side. Mendes had been grappling with health issues caused by long-term complications from COVID-19 in the months leading up to his death.
Originally trained as a classical pianist, Mendes emerged as a key figure during the bossa nova movement of the late 1950s, working closely with the genre's pioneer, Antônio Carlos Jobim. He became internationally recognized after forming the group Brasil '66, which featured prominent vocalists like Lani Hall and Bibi Vogel. Their debut album, "Herb Alpert Presents Sergio Mendes & Brasil '66," achieved platinum status in the United States, and subsequent hits such as bossa nova interpretations of "The Look of Love," "The Fool on the Hill," and "Scarborough Fair" solidified Mendes's status as a global ambassador for Brazilian music.
Over the course of his prolific career, Mendes recorded more than 40 studio albums, with his latest being "In The Key of Joy," released in 2020. Notable figures from the music industry have shared their condolences following his passing. Herb Alpert, a close friend and collaborator, expressed: "Sérgio Mendes was my brother from another country, a true friend and extremely gifted musician who brought Brazilian music in all its iterations to the entire world with elegance and joy."
Mendes leaves behind a legacy that has inspired countless artists and introduced audiences globally to the rich sounds of Brazilian music. For further updates, you can visit the full announcement on Uncut Magazine.