Sergio Mendes, the Brazilian musician renowned for his pivotal role in bringing Bossa nova to international prominence, died at the age of 83 on September 5, 2024. His family confirmed that he passed away peacefully in Los Angeles, surrounded by loved ones, while he had been suffering from long COVID and respiratory complications since late 2023.
Born in Niteroi, Brazil, in 1941, Mendes was instrumental in shaping the Bossa nova genre, which originally flourished in Brazil during the 1950s and 1960s, marking a blend of samba and jazz influences. He first gained widespread recognition with his hit 'Mas Que Nada' in 1966, which featured his group Brasil '66. The song became a hallmark of Mendes' career, notable for being one of the first Portuguese-language tracks to attain significant chart success in the United States.
Over his 60-year career, Mendes released more than 35 albums, many of which achieved gold or platinum status. His collaborations spanned a variety of genres, allowing him to infuse Bossa nova with elements of pop, rock, jazz, and even hip hop. He performed at the White House for multiple U.S. presidents, including Richard Nixon in 1971 and Ronald Reagan in 1982.
His contributions to music were recognized with accolades such as a lifetime achievement award from the Latin Grammys in 2005 and an Oscar nomination for his song 'Real in Rio' from the animated film Rio.
Tributes have poured in since the announcement of his passing, with artists like John Legend expressing gratitude for Mendes’ life and legacy. Mendes leaves behind an enduring musical legacy that continues to inspire musicians and music lovers worldwide. To learn more about Mendes' impact on Bossa nova, visit Mixmag's coverage.