Brazilian Bossa nova legend Sérgio Mendes passed away at age 83 on September 5, 2024, after battling long COVID and respiratory issues. Mendes, known for global hits like “Mas Que Nada” and his band Brasil ’66, played a crucial role in popularizing Bossa nova worldwide. His career spanned over six decades, winning Grammy Awards and achieving collaborations with artists like the Black Eyed Peas. Mendes’ legacy blends Brazilian music with Western influences, leaving a lasting impact on jazz, pop, and beyond.