Marie Fredriksson of Roxette has died at the age of 61.
The news was confirmed earlier today (December 10) by her management at Dimberg Jernberg Management in Stockholm.
“It is with great sadness we have to announce that Marie Fredriksson of Roxette has passed away in the morning of December 9, following a 17-year long battle with cancer,” said the statement.
Fredriksson became one of Sweden’s most popular artists when she launched her solo career in 1984.
She teamed up with Per Gessle in Roxette in 1986, with their debut single Neverending Love and debut LP Pearls of Passion following shortly after and propelling the duo to national fame in Sweden.
The band achieved global fame after the release of their 1989, US No.1 single The Look, taken from second album Look Sharp!
Other huge Roxette hits include Listen To Your Heart, It Must Have Been Love, Joyride, Dressed For Success, How Do You Do!, and Sleeping In My Car and many others.
Roxette has sold over 80 million records worldwide.
“Marie leaves us a grand musical legacy,” said her management, in a statement. “Her amazing voice – both strong and sensitive – and her magical live performances will be remembered by all of us who was lucky enough to witness them.
“But we also remember a wonderful person with a huge appetite for life, and woman with a very big heart who cared for everybody she met.”
“Time goes by so quickly. It’s not that long ago we spent days and nights in my tiny apartment in Halmstad, listening to music we loved, sharing impossible dreams. And what a dream we eventually got to share!”
Per Gessle, Roxette
Per Gessle said: “Time goes by so quickly. It’s not that long ago we spent days and nights in my tiny apartment in Halmstad, listening to music we loved, sharing impossible dreams. And what a dream we eventually got to share!
“Thank you, Marie, thanks for everything. You were an outstanding musician, a master of the voice, an amazing performer. Thanks for painting my black and white songs in the most beautiful colours.
“You were the most wonderful friend for over 40 years. I’m proud, honoured and happy to have been able to share so much of your time, talent, warmth, generosity and sense of humour. All my love goes out to you and your family. Things will never be the same.”
“She was an amazing artist who touched the lives of people around the world and leaves behind an incredible musical legacy. Our thoughts are with her family and friends at this sad time.”
Jonas Siljemark, Warner Music Nordics
Jonas Siljemark, President, Warner Music Nordics, added: “We’re deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Marie Frederiksson.
“She was an amazing artist who touched the lives of people around the world and leaves behind an incredible musical legacy. Our thoughts are with her family and friends at this sad time.”
Music Business Worldwide
