Sergio Mendes, a renowned Brazilian musician and Grammy winner, has passed away at the age of 83 in Los Angeles after battling long COVID for several months. Mendes was a pivotal figure in introducing the bossa nova genre to international audiences and had a storied career spanning multiple decades.
He is survived by his wife and musical partner of 54 years, Gracinha Leporace Mendes, as well as their children, who were by his side at the time of his passing.
Mendes’ impact on the music world was immense, with his version of “Mas Que Nada” helping to popularize bossa nova globally in the 1960s.
He continued to collaborate with various artists, including the Black Eyed Peas, Stevie Wonder, and Justin Timberlake, on his album “Timeless,” which was produced by (link unavailable) Mendes’ work earned him numerous accolades, including a Grammy Award for Best World Music Album for “Brasileiro” and two Latin Grammy Awards.
He was also nominated for an Oscar in 2012 for Best Original Song for “Real In Rio” from the animated film “Rio.”
Tributes have poured in for Mendes, with fellow musicians and friends remembering him as a gifted artist and true friend. Herb Alpert, a trumpet player, described Mendes as his “brother from another country” and praised his ability to bring Brazilian music to the world with elegance.
Mendes’ legacy extends beyond his music, with his soundtrack work on films like “Pele” showcasing his versatility and talent. His passing marks a significant loss for the music world, but his contributions will continue to be celebrated and enjoyed by fans worldwide.
