Sixto Rodriguez, the Detroit native whose story was instructed in Looking for Sugar Man, has handed away on the age of 81.
The singer-songwriter’s official web site confirmed the unlucky information by way of a short message, noting solely that the musician (who was recognized professionally as Rodriguez) had “handed away earlier” on the ninth.
On the time of this piece’s writing, neither Rodriguez’s household nor his crew had publicly disclosed the “I Surprise” and “Institution Blues” artist’s explanation for loss of life. However the person behind Coming from Actuality (1971) had been grappling with well being troubles all through 2023, in response to updates posted on his web site.
Nonetheless, native retailers reported that Rodriguez had appeared at a birthday celebration in his hometown upon turning 81 in July. Throughout the occasion, although, the “Crucify Your Thoughts” vocalist departed early in his personal limo on account of “the warmth and humidity,” per Grosse Pointe Information.
Within the Nineteen Seventies, Rodriguez’s work achieved main industrial success in Australia (the place he toured a number of instances) and African nations together with South Africa. And following a variety of years of humble residing outdoors the media highlight, the “Sugar Man” creator discovered of his continued attain in South Africa (the place followers knew little about him regardless of the appreciable recognition of his music) within the late Nineties.
Subsequently, Rodriguez carried out well-attended reveals in South Africa and, following the discharge of Looking for Sugar Man in 2012, loved vital publicity in america and elsewhere.
Fan messages and tributes about Rodriguez’s passing are being printed on his web site, whereas totally different supporters but are celebrating the artist’s life on social media.
“Such unhappy information,” wrote Looking for Sugar Man producer and Lightbox co-founder Simon Chinn. “He was a real legend, and it was an honour to know him. What a privilege to have the ability to share his superb story with the world. RIP Rodriguez – your music will dwell perpetually.”
“I’m so sorry to listen to about Sixto Rodriguez,” penned The Seashore Boys’ Brian Wilson. “He toured with us in 2015, and he was a really proficient and good man. Love & Mercy to Sixto’s household and pals.”
“Rodriguez sang in regards to the magnificence and energy of the ignored people who have been throughout him,” stated Johannesburg-born Dave Matthews, whose band has coated “Sugar Man” throughout a number of reveals. “They have been the heroes of his songs. He sang in regards to the metropolis, the poor, the hustler and the hustled, the seller and the addict. He additionally made you wish to combat for a greater world. He sang up from the underside. I really like him.”