Bandleader and composer Sergio Mendes, best known for the lively Latin pop hit “Mas Que Nada” and his Brazilian-infused renditions of English classics like “The Look of Love” and The Beatles’ “The Fool On The Hill,” has passed away. Mendes recorded over 35 albums, many of which achieved gold or platinum status in the U.S. He also received an Oscar nomination in 2012 for co-writing “Real in Rio” from the animated film Rio.
A statement from his family shared that Mendes passed away peacefully on Thursday in Los Angeles, surrounded by his wife and children. While no official cause of death was provided, the family mentioned Mendes had been suffering from long-term COVID and had struggled with respiratory issues since the end of 2023.
The statement honored Mendes, saying he “brought the joyous sounds of his native Brasil to the world.” Mendes performed for the last time in November 2023 to sold-out audiences in Paris, London, and Barcelona, though his health had been declining due to long-term COVID.
Mendes leaves behind a remarkable musical legacy, spanning more than six decades of creating a unique sound. Born in Niterói, Brazil, Mendes was the son of a physician and initially trained in classical piano, intending to become a concert pianist. However, his life changed in 1956 when he heard Dave Brubeck’s jazz classic Take Five, which led him to abandon his classical studies.
Immersing himself in the burgeoning bossa nova scene in Rio de Janeiro, Mendes performed alongside Brazilian music icons like Antonio Carlos Jobim and João Gilberto. His first album, Dance Moderno, was released in 1961, and three years later, Mendes relocated to the U.S. to escape Brazil’s military dictatorship. He eventually formed a new band, Brasil ’66, featuring American singers Lani Hall and Karen Philip. The group’s blend of Brazilian rhythms and popular Western melodies resulted in international success, particularly with their hit “Mas Que Nada.”
The song became the first Portuguese-language hit to achieve global recognition, catapulting Brasil ’66’s debut album into the U.S. top 10. Mendes continued his success with covers of songs like Simon & Garfunkel’s “Scarborough Fair” and Otis Redding’s “(Sittin’ On) The Dock of the Bay.” His 1967 cover of The Beatles’ “The Fool On The Hill” earned praise from Paul McCartney himself.
Though Mendes’ music was often classified as “easy listening,” he was a major force in the 1960s and 1970s, playing arena tours and performing for U.S. Presidents Lyndon B. Johnson and Richard Nixon. Mendes was also a frequent guest on television programs, sharing stages with legends like Frank Sinatra, with whom he formed a close friendship.
In the 1970s, Mendes relaunched his band as Brasil ’77, but commercial success waned until his 1983 album Sergio Mendes brought him his biggest hit, a cover of Dionne Warwick’s “Never Gonna Let You Go.”
Throughout his career, Mendes won numerous awards, including a Grammy for his 1992 album Brasileiro and a lifetime achievement award at the 2005 Latin Grammys. His influence spanned generations, with younger audiences discovering his music through collaborations with artists like the Black Eyed Peas and appearances in popular films like Austin Powers.
Mendes is survived by his wife, Gracinha Leporace, who frequently sang on his records, and their five children. His music will continue to inspire and bring joy to listeners around the world.
Also read: Record Attendance As Bromyard Folk Festival Returns For Four-Day Celebration
