The music world mourns the loss of Sergio Mendes, a Grammy-winning Brazilian artist who has died at the age of 83.
At a Glance
- Sergio Mendes passed away at the age of 83.
- Known for his 1966 hit “Mas Que Nada,” Mendes became a global superstar.
- Mendes last performed in Paris, London, and Barcelona in November 2023.
- Herb Alpert called Mendes a true friend and a gifted musician.
Mendes’ Storied Career
Sergio Mendes, celebrated for his innovative blend of bossa nova, jazz, and funk, died following complications from coronavirus. Mendes gained worldwide fame with his hit song “Mas Que Nada” in 1966. Born in Niterói, Rio de Janeiro, Mendes studied classical music before joining jazz groups and exploring bossa nova.
In 1962, Mendes traveled to New York to participate in a bossa nova festival at Carnegie Hall. He collaborated with jazz legend Cannonball Adderley during this period. Mendes moved to California in 1964, forming Brazil ’64, which later evolved into Brazil ’66, the group that catapulted him to international fame with “Mas Que Nada.”
Sergio Mendes, Brazilian bossa nova legend, dies at 83 https://t.co/xvi1ZS4i0D
— CBS News (@CBSNews) September 6, 2024
Global Impact and Legacy
“Mas Que Nada,” originally released by Jorge Ben Jor in 1963, was updated by Mendes in 1966. A modern rendition of the song, featuring the Black Eyed Peas, topped U.S. charts in 2006 and was included in Mendes’ album “Timeless.” Mendes’ other hits included covers of Beatles songs and his own Brazilian chant “Magalenha.”
“His wife and musical partner for the past 54 years, Gracinha Leporace Mendes, was by his side, as were his loving children,” the statement Friday said. “Mendes last performed in November 2023 to sold-out and wildly enthusiastic houses in Paris, London, and Barcelona.”
Mendes also composed the soundtrack for the film “Pelé” and produced an album recorded by the soccer player. He won the 1992 Grammy Award for Best World Music Album for “Brasileiro” and received two Latin Grammy Awards. In 2012, he earned an Oscar nomination for Best Original Song for “Real in Rio” from the animated film “Rio.”
Sergio Mendes, Brazilian Pop Innovator, Dies at 83⁰⁰ https://t.co/CBTMxZQOw4
— Variety (@Variety) September 6, 2024
Mendes’ Contributions to Brazilian Music
Mendes helped open international doors for other Brazilian artists. His contributions ensured Brazilian music’s position on the global stage. His album “Timeless” featured collaborations with prominent artists like Stevie Wonder, Justin Timberlake, and the Black Eyed Peas.
“Sergio Mendes was my brother from another country,” trumpet player Herb Alpert wrote on Facebook. “He was a true friend and extremely gifted musician who brought Brazilian music in all its iterations to the entire world with elegance.”
Details regarding funeral and memorial services will be provided by his family at a later date. Mendes’ lasting influence on world music and his dedication to Brazilian culture continue to resonate worldwide.
Sources
1. Brazilian music legend Sérgio Mendes dies at 83
2. Brazilian music legend Sergio Mendes of ‘Mas Que Nada’ fame dies at 83
