Luckman Sessions: Sergio Mendes

Academy Award-nominated and three-time Grammy Award-winning musician Sergio Mendes is the featured artist in the latest episode of our original series, Luckman Sessions. From his pioneering contributions to the foundations of bossa nova alongside the likes of Antônio Carlos Jobim, through the era-defining Latin-pop sound of his iconic group Brasil ’66, his scintillating collaborations with other musical legends, and his 21st-century reinvention with the Black Eyed Peas and John Legend for his Oscar-nominated theme song from the animated film Rio. In this episode Mendes reflects on his illustrious career, the birth of Bossa Nova, and the impact it’s had on music and Brazil’s culture. An infectious spirit of joy permeates everything Mendes has ushered into the ears of listeners. This episode was filmed at The Luckman prior to his performance on our stage on October 12, 2024. Luckman Sessions is created and produced entirely in-house, the series is comprised of episodes that bring you exclusive artist performances and interviews filmed at The Luckman and on-location around the country and around the world — including in Oaxaca, Miami, Madrid, and more. Artists: Sergio Mendes, vocals & keyboards Gracinha Leporace, vocals Katie Hampton, vocals Leo Costa, Drums & vocals Kleber Jorge Pimenta, guitar & vocals Andre De Santanna, bass Jamieson Trotter, keyboards Scott Mayo, saxophone, flute & vocals Marko Dos Santos, percussion Film Crew: Justin Cone, Producer Nicholas Mestas, Producer Michael Elias Thomas, Producer Michael Elias Thomas, Director of Photography & editor Anais Bernard, Camera Operator Stage Crew: Samantha Cloonan, production manager Toby Tittle, audio engineer Christina Antolin, lighting designer Juan Marroquin, technician Marika Mori, audio technician Kaitlin Ragland, audio technician Geena Wong, lighting technician Andres Zuniga, audio technician ©The Luckman Fine Arts Complex at Cal State LA