Malian singer Amadou Bagayoko, one half of the celebrated duo Amadou & Mariam, has died at the age of 70.
His family confirmed he passed away on April 4th in Bamako after an illness.
Born in 1954, Bagayoko showed musical talent from a young age, mastering instruments like the harmonica, flute, and guitar.
Despite losing his sight as a teen, he went on to join the Institute for Young Blind People in Bama-ko, where he met his future wife and musical partner Mariam.
Amadou rose to fame in the 1970s with the group Ambassadeurs du Motel, which also featured fellow Congolese artist Salif Keïta.
Tributes are pouring in from across Africa and beyond — Congolese artist Fally Ipupa called him “Maestro,” while Senegal’s Youssou N’Dour remembered his deep friendship.
Bagayoko leaves behind a powerful legacy of Afro-blues music that resonated around the world.
Source: AfricaNews.com
Photo Cred: Pitchfork.com
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