Sergio Mendes, the legendary Brazilian pianist, composer, and arranger who introduced the vibrant rhythms of bossa nova to global audiences, passed away on Thursday in Los Angeles at the age of 83. Mendes, who gained worldwide fame with his band Brasil ’66, remained a major figure in the music industry for over six decades. His family confirmed that his death, which occurred in a hospital, was due to long-term complications from Covid-19.
Over his illustrious career, Mendes released nearly 35 albums, won three Grammy Awards, and was even nominated for an Academy Award in 2012 for the song “Real in Rio” from the animated film Rio.
Mendes first found success in the United States in 1966 with Brasil ’66 and their hit single “Mas Que Nada,” written by Brazilian musician Jorge Ben. Mendes’ sound was an elegant fusion of bossa nova, jazz, and pop—gentle yet sophisticated. His signature style, which combined rhythmic complexity with smooth vocal arrangements, helped establish bossa nova’s lasting presence in pop culture.
In 1962, Mendes first visited the U.S. to perform at a bossa nova concert at Carnegie Hall alongside greats like his mentor, Antonio Carlos Jobim. After a brief return to Brazil, Mendes decided to settle in the U.S. following the political unrest in his home country. While his initial performances with his band met with only moderate success, he persisted and eventually reformed the group, recruiting 19-year-old singer Lani Hall as the lead vocalist. This marked the beginning of Brasil ’66, the ensemble that would define Mendes’ career.
The Birth of Brasil ’66 and Global Stardom
When Mendes auditioned for legendary trumpeter Herb Alpert in Los Angeles, he quickly secured a record deal with A&M Records. The band’s debut album, Herb Alpert Presents Sergio Mendes & Brasil ’66, went gold, propelled by hits like “Mas Que Nada” and “One Note Samba”. Brasil ’66’s fusion of Brazilian rhythms, jazz, and pop resonated with international audiences, making Mendes a household name. Their version of “The Look of Love”, which they performed on the Academy Awards, cemented their global popularity.
Though youth-driven rock and roll dominated the charts during the 1960s, Brasil ’66’s sensual, sophisticated sound provided an alternative that captured the attention of adult contemporary listeners. Mendes’ music became synonymous with a laid-back, cool sophistication.
A Lifelong Musical Journey of Sergio Mendes
Mendes’ career spanned generations, evolving as he collaborated with various artists and adapted to changing musical trends. After a lull in the late 1970s, he returned to the charts in 1983 with the hit “Never Gonna Let You Go”, sung by Joe Pizzulo and Leeza Miller. He later worked with stars like Frank Sinatra, and in the 1990s, he won a Grammy Award for his album Brasileiro, marking his return to Brazilian music roots.
In the 2000s, Mendes reignited his career through collaborations with younger artists such as The Black Eyed Peas, John Legend, and Pharrell Williams, proving his ability to stay relevant in contemporary pop music. His track “Mas Que Nada”, reimagined with The Black Eyed Peas, became a global hit in 2006.
Legacy and Lasting Impact of Sergio Mendes
Mendes’ enduring impact on both Brazilian music and the global pop scene is undeniable. He received a Lifetime Achievement Grammy in 2005, and in 2010, won another Grammy for his album Bom Tempo in the Best Brazilian Contemporary Pop Album category—a genre he helped shape.
Sergio Mendes is survived by his wife of 50 years, Gracinha Leporace, who succeeded Lani Hall as the lead vocalist for Brasil ’66, and their two children, Tiago and Gustavo. He is also survived by three children from a previous marriage—Bernardo, Rodrigo, and Isabella—as well as seven grandchildren.
Mendes spent his life crafting music that was not just beautiful but joyful. As he once said, “The word is ‘joy.’ ‘Allegria.’ The next party. I’m ready.” Mendes leaves behind a legacy of timeless music that continues to inspire joy around the world.
FAQs:
1. Who was Sergio Mendes?
Sergio Mendes was a Brazilian pianist, composer, and arranger who popularized bossa nova music globally through his group Brasil ’66, becoming a music icon.
2. What is Sergio Mendes known for?
Mendes is best known for his hit songs with Brasil ’66, including “Mas Que Nada” and “The Look of Love,” and for blending Brazilian rhythms with pop and jazz.
3. How did Sergio Mendes die?
Sergio Mendes passed away due to complications from long Covid at the age of 83.
4. What awards did Sergio Mendes win during his career?
Mendes won three Grammy Awards, and his 2010 album Bom Tempo won Best Brazilian Contemporary Pop Album. He was also nominated for an Academy Award.
5. What was Sergio Mendes’ impact on music?
Mendes introduced Brazilian music, especially bossa nova, to global audiences and worked with artists like Frank Sinatra, The Black Eyed Peas, and John Legend.
