Sixto Diaz Rodriguez, Legendary Musician, Passes Away at 81 Following Surgery Recovery

Legendary Musician Sixto Diaz Rodriguez Passes Away at 81 After Surgery Recovery

Sixto Diaz Rodriguez, the iconic musician known for his incredible resurgence after the Oscar-winning documentary ‘Searching for Sugar Man,’ has sadly passed away at the age of 81. His daughter, Regan, shared the heartbreaking news along with a poignant photograph of her father onstage, expressing gratitude for his love and music.

Rodriguez’s remarkable journey was marked by a sudden resurgence in popularity after the documentary revealed his captivating story. Following his birthday celebrations, he underwent surgery in March to address complications from a stroke suffered in February. Despite the hope for recovery, Rodriguez’s passing was confirmed by a statement on his official website, expressing deep condolences to his daughters and family.

The documentary chronicled Rodriguez’s life, tracing his disappearance after releasing two albums in the 1970s, only to find global fame decades later when he was tracked down in his 70s. The film, completed on a modest iPhone due to financial constraints, won the Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature in 2013.

Rodriguez’s music experienced a revival after the documentary, with his albums reentering the charts. His daughter Eva’s discovery of fan websites dedicated to her father in South Africa played a pivotal role in the rediscovery of his music and story. Despite facing adversity and obscurity, Rodriguez’s journey from busking tables in Detroit to international acclaim remains an inspiring and enduring tale of resilience and artistic talent.

While ‘Searching for Sugar Man’ brought Rodriguez’s music back into the spotlight, the documentary’s creator, Malik Bendejelloul, tragically ended his own life in 2014. The passing of Sixto Diaz Rodriguez marks the end of a profound chapter in the music industry, leaving behind a legacy that touched the hearts of fans around the world.