The world mourns the loss of a great bossa nova artist today. Internationally known Brazilian artist Sérgio Mendes passed away yesterday (Sept. 5). He was 83.
The emblematic artist was born in Niterói, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, on Feb. 11, 1941. Mendes was known for his music that crossed genres like bossa nova, samba, funk, tropicália, and beyond. He became known after kicking off his group Brasil ’66, which helped him get signed to A&M Records by American legendary trumpet player Herb Alpert and American recording executive Jerry Moss.
Some of his most famous hits include “Magalenha,” “Mas Que Nada,” and “Never Gonna Let You Go.” Throughout his decades of musical trajectory, the singer performed with artists like Black Eyed Peas, John Legend, Eyrkah Badu, and many more. Throughout his career, he’s credited as helping globalize bossa nova to an international audience.
Since his passing, fans and colleagues have been publishing tribute messages. The cause of his death is said to be a result of health challenges relating to long-term COVID-19. According to reports, he “passed away peacefully” in Los Angeles, CA, beside his wife and musical partner for 54 years, Gracinha Leporace Mendes, and his children.
Alpert, who worked with Mendes from the early days of his career, reported his death. “Sergio Mendes was my brother from another country passed away quietly and peacefully,” he wrote. “He was a true friend and extremely gifted musician who brought Brazilian music in all its iterations to the entire world with elegance [and] joy.”
Per Alpert’s post, Mendes’ final shows were in Paris, London, and Barcelona last November. He also stated that Mendes recorded more than 35 albums throughout his musical career, which spanned across more than six decades. He was a three-time Grammy Award winner and Oscar nominee.
Mendes is survived by his wife and five children.