Vale SERGIO MENDES

The name Sergio Mendes is synonymous with bossa nova and Brazilian music. I recognised his name right through my childhood, although his first wave of success with Brasil '66 pretty much predated my pop culture years. Sergio Mendes was front and centre with this 1983 smash which I have used to honour the great musician, composer, producer and arranger - the beautiful 'Never Gonna Let You Go'' which was written by Barry Mann and Cynthia Weil.

Sergio, looking for something gentler and slower for his self titled album, selected the song and it became a huge hit - reaching the top of the Adult Contemporary chart; remaining there for 4 weeks and making #4 on the Billboard Pop chart. I should probably credit this gorgeous track to Joe Pizzulo and Leeza Miller also, who provided the vocals. The song made the R&B listings too. Here in Australia the single made the Top 20 in the middle of 1983. I have left the music speak with an audio visualiser and single image of the great man who passed away from complications from long Covid on September 5, 2024.

Sergio's musical forays extended to soul, funk, pop, jazz and Latin styles. His death is the end of an era and the passing of an iconic figure in Brazilian pop culture.

[tenishastairpraisegod]

Good afternoon Dave 😀💙🩵🇦🇺 a very sad news of the Brazilian singer Sergio Mendes has been passed away at 83 years old. Rest in Peace 🕊️💔🙏🏾😭😢