Born on this day in 1941, Sergio Mendes became one of the most influential musical ambassadors Brazil ever shared with the world. His signature blend of bossa nova, jazz, and funk carried Brazilian rhythms far beyond Rio’s beaches, shaping the sound of international pop for more than six decades.

Mendes first rose to global fame with his group Brasil ’66, whose smooth, sophisticated arrangements and multilingual vocals captivated audiences around the world. Their recordings became staples of the late‑1960s pop landscape, introducing millions to the warmth and sway of Brazilian music. Over the course of his career, Mendes released more than 55 albums, each one reflecting his instinct for collaboration and reinvention.

In 1983, he returned to the top of the charts with the hit single “Never Gonna Let You Go,” which climbed to No. 4 in the United States and became one of his most recognizable songs. Yet Mendes never stopped evolving. His work bridged generations, genres, and cultures, pairing Brazilian tradition with contemporary pop and R&B influences.

His artistry also reached the big screen. In 2012, Mendes earned an Oscar nomination for Best Original Song as a co‑writer of “Real in Rio,” the vibrant musical centerpiece of the animated film Rio. It was a fitting honor for a musician whose career had always celebrated the color, rhythm, and joy of his homeland.

Sergio Mendes passed away on September 5, 2024, in Los Angeles at the age of 83, following complications from long COVID. His legacy, however, remains unmistakable. Through his recordings, collaborations, and tireless creativity, Mendes helped bring Brazilian music into the global mainstream—leaving behind a catalog that continues to inspire musicians and listeners across the world.