Sérgio Mendes Passes Away at 83
Sérgio Mendes, the Brazilian bossa nova legend who became famous with his band Brasil ’66, has died peacefully at age 83 in Los Angeles, surrounded by family.
Family’s Statement and Final Performances
The family shared with Rolling Stone that Mendes performed for sold-out crowds in Paris, London, and Barcelona in November 2023. Sadly, he had been dealing with long-term COVID effects for months before he passed.
Mendes was one of the most successful Brazilian musicians ever, recording over 35 albums, many going gold or platinum. He won three Grammy Awards and was even nominated for an Oscar, leaving behind an amazing musical legacy spanning more than six decades.
Early Life and Career Beginnings
Born in Rio De Janeiro in 1941, Mendes moved to the U.S. in the early ’60s after making a name for himself in Brazil. His debut album Dance Moderno and collaborations with jazz greats like Cannonball Adderley and Herbie Mann marked the start of his international journey.
We will always remember his unique sound and joyful music.
Rise to Fame with Brasil ’66
After signing with Atlantic Records, Mendes released many albums yearly from 1964 to 1979, mostly with Brasil ’66. Their 1966 album, Herb Alpert Presents Sergio Mendes & Brasil ’66, made him an international star. It featured hits like "Day Tripper" by the Beatles and "Mas Que Nada" by Jorge Ben, becoming some of his most loved tracks.
Peak Popularity and Later Collaborations
In the late ’60s, Mendes’ bossa nova covers of songs like “The Fool on the Hill” and “Scarborough Fair” hit the top of the U.S. charts.
Years later, “Mas Que Nada” was reimagined with the Black Eyed Peas, leading to two albums produced by Will.i.am, Timeless (2006) and Encanto (2008). These featured many guest artists like Juanes, John Legend, and Justin Timberlake.
Award Achievements
Mendes was nominated for six Grammys, winning Best World Music Album in 1993 for Brasileiro. He also received an Academy Award nomination in 2011 for “Real in Rio” from the animated movie Rio.
