Legendary artist in the Brazilian music scene, Sergio Mendes, is dead at the age of 83.
In recent months, the man behind the bossa nova boom had been facing serious health challenges, primarily related to long-term complications from COVID-19.
His health had been in decline since late 2023, marked by ongoing respiratory issues.
Although he continued to perform until November of 2023, when he gave his last live concerts in Europe, his family revealed that the effects of long-term COVID took a toll on his body.
Sergio had previously suffered from lung-related problems, and his battle with the virus exacerbated his condition.
A statement released by the Mendes family confirmed that he passed away peacefully on Thursday, September 5, 2024 (PST) in Los Angeles, California, surrounded by his wife and children.
While the family acknowledged that the bandleader had been suffering from long-term COVID, they did not specify an official cause of death.
The statement expressed their grief and reflected on his contribution to music, saying that he "brought the joyous sounds of his native Brasil to the world" and that his legacy would live on through his incredible body of work.
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SERGIO MENDES'S LEGACY
Best known for his groundbreaking work that brought Brazilian music to global audiences, Sergio made a lasting impact on both Latin and pop music.
His career spanned over six decades, during which he delivered iconic hits like "Mas Que Nada" and Brazilian renditions of English classics such as "The Fool on the Hill" by The Beatles and "The Look of Love."
A master arranger and bandleader, he was skilled at blending cultural styles while maintaining his roots in the music of his native Brazil.
His group, Sergio Mendes & Brasil '66, became an international sensation, leading to numerous crossover hits and solidifying his place in the music world as a conduit between Brazil and the wider world.
Throughout his extensive career, Mendes recorded more than 35 albums, many of which achieved gold or platinum status in the United States.
In 2012, Mendes earned an Academy Award nomination for co-writing "Real in Rio," a song featured in the animated film Rio.
His awards also include multiple Grammy nominations and wins, as well as a spot on Billboard's Top 10 Latin Artists of all time.
Despite his long career in the United States, his sound remained a celebration of his Brazilian heritage.
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