Brazilian musician Sergio Mendes has died at 83 due to health complications related to long-term C0V1D. Mendes passed away peacefully at his Los Angeles home, surrounded by family, including his wife and musical partner of 54 years, Gracinha Leporace Mendes.
Mendes, who popularized bossa nova over the world, had a career that spanned six decades and included over 30 recordings. He rose to international prominence in the 1960s with his band, Brasil ’66, and singles such as “Mas que Nada” and “Magalenha.” Mendes’ music was distinguished by the fusion of Brazilian rhythms and pop, and he played a significant role in developing the Brazilian pop crossover.
Born in Niterói, Brazil, in 1941, Mendes began his career playing in clubs and performing with legends like Antônio Carlos Jobim. He later formed the Sexteto Bossa Rio, releasing his debut album in 1961. After moving to Los Angeles in 1964, he signed with Capitol Records and formed Brasil ‘65, later renamed Brasil ‘66, which found success with the platinum album Herb Alpert Presents Sergio Mendes & Brasil ’66.
Mendes worked with Frank Sinatra, opening for him in Europe and performing at places such as the Royal Albert Hall. His bossa nova renditions of English-language songs, such as the Beatles’ “With a Little Help From My Friends” and Dusty Springfield’s “The Look of Love,” allowed him to reach a larger audience. Mendes earned a Grammy in 1992 for Brasileiro and worked on the soundtracks for the animated flicks Rio and Rio 2.
In 2021, Mendes reflected on his career, saying, “I’m very, very proud of it and very happy that I met and collaborated with so many different artists from different cultures.”
Mendes is survived by his wife Gracinha, their two children, and three children from his first marriage.