Brazilian Music Icon Sergio Mendes Dies at 83, Leaving Rich Legacy

Sergio Mendes, the Brazilian pianist and composer who brought a tropical flair to the music scene of the late 1960s, has passed away at the age of 83. The artist, known for his group Brasil '66, died on September 5, 2024, in Los Angeles due to complications from long COVID.

Mendes' musical journey began in Niterói, Brazil, where he was born on February 11, 1941. As a child, he faced challenges with osteomyelitis, a bone disease that confined him to a cast for three years. This period of immobility led him to find solace in music, particularly the piano.

The artist's career took a significant turn when he moved to Los Angeles in 1964, the same year that bossa nova gained international recognition with "The Girl from Ipanema." Mendes, influenced by both bossa nova and American jazz, created a unique sound that would define his career.

His breakthrough came with the 1966 album "Herb Alpert Presents Sergio Mendes and Brasil '66." The album, co-produced by Herb Alpert, featured a blend of Brazilian rhythms and pop tunes, selling over 500,000 copies and earning a place in the Grammy Hall of Fame.

Brasil '66's success continued with hit covers of songs by The Beatles, Otis Redding, and Simon & Garfunkel. Their version of "The Look of Love," performed at the 1968 Academy Awards, reached No. 4 on the Billboard pop chart.

"People didn't know what ['Mas Que Nada'] meant, and it didn't matter. It just made people feel good."

After a period of reduced popularity, Mendes experienced a resurgence in 1983 with the hit "Never Gonna Let You Go." He continued to evolve musically, winning a Grammy for his 1992 album "Brasileiro" and collaborating with contemporary artists like will.i.am of the Black Eyed Peas in 2006.

Mendes' influence extended beyond music. His song "Mas Que Nada" featured in the first "Austin Powers" film in 1997, introducing his sound to a new generation. In 2012, he received an Oscar nomination for "Real in Rio" from the animated film "Rio."

Throughout his career, Mendes released over 40 albums and maintained an active touring schedule until recently. His legacy as a pioneer of Brazilian-influenced pop music and his ability to adapt to changing musical landscapes ensure his place in music history.

Sergio Mendes is survived by his wife of over 50 years, Gracinha Leporace, their two children, three children from a previous marriage, and seven grandchildren. His melodic approach to music and his fusion of Brazilian rhythms with international pop will continue to inspire musicians and delight audiences for years to come.