WKCR is deeply saddened by the passing of Brazilian musician Sérgio Mendes who was a catalyst in defining the sound of Latin pop and dance music and bringing Bossa Nova to the U.S in the 1960s. Mendes’ ensemble Brasil ‘66 hit single “Mais Que Nada” boosted his music career. The Band’s mix of light jazz, a bossa nova beat, and contemporary soft pop melodie perfectly captures why Bossa Nova is so incredibly.

Mendes became the leader of his own group, the Sexteto Bossa Rio, and was heard with them by many visiting musicians. He made his first recording, Dance Moderno, in 1961 on the Philips Records label. By 1962, Mendes and his band were playing at Birdland in New York in an impromptu performance with Cannonball Adderley (who was officially on the bill). Mendes and Adderley cut an album together for Capitol that was released later that year.

WKCR will host a special tribute tonight to honor the life and legacy of Sérgio Mendes. Starting from 9pm and going till 2am Saturday night hosted by WKCR’s host of Som Do Brasil Jassvan De Lima and our Jazz department head Rachel Smith.

Through this tribute, WKCR aims to honor Mendes’ musical contributions that have made him a cherished figure in our community. WKCR invites everyone to join in celebrating the life of Sérgio Mendes. For more information about the tribute and to tune in, please visit wkcr.org or follow us on social media for updates.