Brazilian music icon Sergio Mendes has passed away at the age of 83 in Los Angeles on September 5. Mendes’ family revealed that he had been facing health challenges due to long-term COVID. His contribution to music over several decades made him an enduring figure in the industry.
Born in Niterói, Brazil, in the early 1940s, Mendes started his musical journey by studying piano at a local conservatory. He quickly gained recognition in nightclubs and various touring bands across Brazil. In 1961, he released his first album, Dance Moderno, coinciding with the rise of the bossa nova movement. Following successful tours in North America and Europe, Mendes made his mark by founding Sergio Mendes & Brasil ’65 in the United States, though his initial albums did not achieve substantial sales. With guidance from producer Richard Adler, he expanded his group by incorporating American vocalists and began performing songs in English. However, it was his iconic Portuguese-language track “Mas Que Nada,” originally penned by samba legend Jorge Ben, that propelled Mendes and his band—later known as Brasil ’66—into the American spotlight.
Despite the initial skepticism in the music industry, “Mas Que Nada” and the accompanying album Herb Alpert Presents: Sergio Mendes & Brazil ’66 solidified Mendes’ reputation. His career reached new heights in 1968, when he delivered a memorable performance of Burt Bacharach and Hal David’s “The Look of Love” at the Academy Awards. Mendes and his ensemble showcased their talents in larger venues, performing for multiple U.S. Presidents and even at the 1970 Olympics, blending rock elements with Mendes’ signature keyboard mastery and dynamic percussion.
Although the momentum waned in the following years, Mendes continually innovated, exploring both modern and traditional genres. His 1992 album Brasileiro earned a Grammy Award for Best World Music Album, while his 2010 project Bom Tempo reimagined Brazilian classics for a new audience. Mendes co-produced the 1983 James Bond theme “Never Say Never Again” and collaborated with legends like Stevie Wonder and Milton Nascimento. His recent partnerships included acclaimed artists such as John Legend and the Black Eyed Peas, reflecting his versatility and relevance in contemporary music. Mendes released his final album, In the Key of Joy, in 2019, coinciding with a documentary that celebrated his incredible journey.
