Sérgio Mendes, the acclaimed Brazilian-born musician renowned for popularizing bossa nova music worldwide, passed away on September 5, 2024, in a Los Angeles hospital. He was 83. His death was attributed to the long-term effects of Covid-19, as confirmed by a statement from his family posted on social media.
Mendes, celebrated for his vibrant and influential music career spanning six decades, is best known for his groundbreaking work in the 1960s with the group Brasil ’66. His composition “Mas Que Nada” became a global sensation, introducing bossa nova to a broader audience and establishing Mendes as a key figure in Latin music.
Latin music scholar Leila Cobo highlighted Mendes’ originality and confidence in his unique sound, noting how his music stood out from the prevailing rock ‘n’ roll trends of the time. Mendes’ innovative approach and commitment to his craft cemented his reputation as a pioneer in the music industry.
Born in Niteroi, Brazil, in 1941, Mendes developed a passion for music early in life, studying classical music and jazz. His early exposure to jazz, particularly through the Dave Brubeck Quartet’s “Take Five,” influenced his musical style. After relocating to the United States in 1962, Mendes and Brasil ’66 gained international acclaim with hits like “Mas Que Nada” and “The Look of Love.”
Throughout his illustrious career, Mendes collaborated with a diverse array of music legends, including Herb Alpert, Frank Sinatra, Quincy Jones, Burt Bacharach, and Stevie Wonder. His versatile talent was showcased in memorable songs such as “Scarborough Fair,” “Night and Day,” and “Never Gonna Let You Go.”
Mendes’ contributions to music were recognized with numerous accolades. In 1992, he won a Grammy Award for Best World Music Album with his album *Brasileiro*. He continued to garner acclaim with collaborations involving contemporary artists like the Black Eyed Peas, Erykah Badu, John Legend, Justin Timberlake, and Pharrell Williams.
In 2005, Mendes received a Lifetime Achievement Grammy, and his 2010 album *Bom Tempo* earned him another Grammy for Best Brazilian Contemporary Pop Album. His song “Real in Rio” from the 2012 animated film *Rio* earned him an Oscar nomination for Best Original Song.
Mendes’ impact on music and his ability to bridge cultures through his work were celebrated by friends and colleagues. Herb Alpert paid tribute to Mendes, reflecting on his deep friendship and extraordinary talent. Mendes is survived by his wife of 50 years, Gracinha Leporace, their two children, Tiago and Gustavo, as well as three older children from his first marriage—Bernardo, Rodrigo, and Isabella—and seven grandchildren. Sérgio Mendes leaves behind a profound legacy, having shaped the global perception of Brazilian music and influenced generations of musicians and fans alike. His innovative spirit and dedication to his art will continue to inspire the world of music.
In other news – Road rehabilitation efforts to resume in Zimbabwe
Transport Minister Felix Mhona provided an update on the status of road rehabilitation projects during a Parliamentary Question and Answer session on Wednesday. Mhona confirmed that work on the Harare-Chirundu highway and other key roads would soon resume, following a temporary halt due to the recent SADC Summit.
Mhona assured MPs that construction and rehabilitation efforts, which had been paused, would restart immediately. Equipment is reportedly already on site, and contractors are expected to be fully operational in the coming week. Read More
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