09 Sep Sérgio Mendes, Bossa Nova Legend, Dies at 83
- Sérgio Mendes introduced bossa nova to a global audience in the 1960s with his band Brasil ’66.
- Mendes collaborated with artists from various genres and eras, showcasing his ability to transcend generations.
- Mendes’ legacy as a pioneer and ambassador of bossa nova will continue to inspire generations of musicians across various genres.
Sérgio Mendes, the legendary Brazilian musician who introduced bossa nova to a global audience in the 1960s with his band Brasil ’66, has died at the age of 83. The Grammy-winning artist passed away due to health complications related to long-term Covid, leaving behind a legacy that spans over six decades and multiple generations.
Mendes’ impact on the music world was profound, as he successfully brought the soothing sounds of bossa nova to the international stage. His band’s album, featuring the hit single “Mas que Nada,” went platinum, while their rendition of “The Look of Love” reached the US Top 10 in 1968. These achievements solidified Mendes’ status as an international ambassador for the genre, paving the way for Brazilian music to gain worldwide recognition.
Throughout his illustrious career, Mendes collaborated with artists from various genres and eras, showcasing his ability to transcend generations as reported by Billboard. From working with jazz greats like Cannonball Adderley and Herbie Mann in the 1960s to partnering with the Black Eyed Peas in 2006, Mendes consistently incorporated diverse styles and genres into his music, making it appealing to a wide range of audiences.
Mendes’ collaboration with the Black Eyed Peas on the album “Timeless” was a testament to his enduring influence. Produced by will.i.am and featuring guest appearances by Erykah Badu, Q-Tip, Common, Stevie Wonder, and Justin Timberlake, the album reflected the numerous underground rap records that sampled Mendes’ music, introducing his work to a new generation of listeners.
The Brazilian maestro’s career was marked by numerous milestones, including a performance at the Academy Awards in 1968 as The Guardian points out, an appearance at the Japan World Expo in 1970, and a Grammy win for Best World Album for “Brasileiro” in 1992. In 2012, Mendes was nominated for an Oscar for Best Original Song for “Real in Rio,” further cementing his status as a musical icon.
Mendes’ music was deeply rooted in the cultural and musical heritage of Brazil, and he played a crucial role in promoting bossa nova on a global scale. Mentored by bossa nova pioneer Antônio Carlos Jobim, Mendes formed the band Sexteto Bossa Rio and released his instrumental debut album “Dance Moderno” in 1961. Throughout his career, he remained committed to showcasing Brazilian music and culture, earning him a reputation as an international ambassador for Bossa Nova.
Sérgio Mendes is survived by his wife, Gracinha Leporace, and his five children. As the world mourns the loss of this musical genius, his legacy as a pioneer and ambassador of bossa nova will continue to inspire generations of musicians across various genres. Mendes’ contributions to the music world will be forever remembered, and his influence will undoubtedly live on through the countless artists he has inspired.
Image credit: Wikimedia
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