Sixto 'Sugar Man' Rodriguez has passed away
Legendary 'Sugar Man' singer Rodriguez has sadly passed away.
A darling of South Africa’s musical landscape, Sixto Rodriguez has passed away at the age of 81.
He had been struggling with a series of health ailments following a stroke a few months prior to his passing. Rodriguez, who will be recalled as one of South Africa’s most enigmatic musical icons, was most recognised for his track, 'Sugar Man'.
"We've confirmed with his daughter, Sandra, that he passed away yesterday, 8 August, at 17:30 Detroit time," shares Stephen 'Sugar' Segerman with News24.
Read More: Throwback to when Rodriguez thanked his SA fans for keeping him alive
"He was a legend in South Africa. His death is a huge loss for our country but we will honour him by the powerful music he has shared with us," shares one Mzansi social media user.
Here's more on the background of Sixto Rodriguez
Rodriguez hailed from Detroit, and spent most of his life living in working-class conditions, largely unaware of his enormous success in South Africa. After some initial commercial interest in his early recordings, Rodriguez faded into musical obscurity in the US.
Somehow, he was unaware of his rising popularity in international markets, and by the mid-70s, Rodriguez was receiving regular radio play in Australia, New Zealand, and Zimbabwe.
However, Rodriguez’s most important contributions were made in South Africa, where themes of anti-establishment were perceived as a rallying cry against the Apartheid regime.
His music has stood the test of time and is ultimately one of Mzansi's most beloved musicians.
All fans are invited to share tributes via the SugarMan.org Facebook page, to remember "a man that has touched the hearts of so many people around the world."
Find out more about his moving story here:
More on East Coast Radio:
Image courtesy of Twitter