Sérgio Mendes, Iconic Bossa Nova Artist, Passes Away at 83
Los Angeles – Sérgio Mendes, the renowned singer and composer who played a pivotal role in popularizing Brazil’s bossa nova music, passed away on Thursday. His family confirmed the news in a statement shared with CNN.
At 83 years old, Mendes leaves behind a legacy marked by more than 35 albums and a six-decade career that captivated audiences worldwide. According to the family’s statement, "His wife and musical partner for the past 54 years, Gracinha Leporace Mendes, was by his side, as were his loving children."
The family noted that Mendes had recently been grappling with the effects of long-term Covid.
Mendes’ last performances occurred earlier this year in Paris, London, and Barcelona, showcasing his enduring talent and charm. Reflecting on his life and career, Mendes once stated, “There’s a word in English that I love: serendipity. That’s the story of my life.”
Born in Niteroi, Brazil, in 1941, Mendes studied classical music in his youth and developed a passion for jazz after listening to a record by Dave Brubeck. He began his career playing in trios and quartets before moving to the United States with his group Brasil ’66. Their Portuguese-language single “Mas Que Nada” garnered international success, complemented by the smooth ballad “The Look of Love.”
Throughout his career, Mendes collaborated with a variety of high-profile artists, including Herb Alpert, Frank Sinatra, Quincy Jones, Burt Bacharach, and Stevie Wonder. His extensive repertoire includes memorable tracks like “Scarborough Fair,” “Night and Day,” and “Never Gonna Let You Go.”
In 2020, the documentary “Sergio Mendes: In the Key of Joy” delved into his illustrious career and collaborations with contemporary artists such as will.i.am, Common, and John Legend. Notably, Mendes and Legend received an Oscar nomination for Best Original Song in 2012 for “Real in Rio” from the animated film “Rio.”
In a 2020 interview with NPR, Mendes reflected on his long career and the enriching experiences gained through various musical partnerships. “I’ve been very fortunate to have had such experiences because that has enriched my life. Working with different people from different countries, from different cultures, I think it just helps you grow and learn new things. … I love that because you don’t program that; it’s about the magical encounter,” he said. “I think it’s a beautiful thing in life.”
This story has been updated.
