The renowned Argentine singer Leo Dan passed away on Wednesday, January 1, aged 82, as per his official Instagram account. The Latin music legend was best known for his unforgettable ballads like Pídeme la Luna, Cómo te extraño mi amor, and Esa pared. The cause of death was not made public at the time of writing this article.
With a picture of the singer, the post confirmed that he had passed away. The official statement read:
“This morning our beloved Leo Dan left his body in peace and with the love of his family. Thus, he returned to the pure light of his Heavenly Father, to guide and care for us from infinity.”
The social media post was also accompanied by the hashtag #LeoDanForever and the Bible verse John 11:25: “Jesus said to her, ‘I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live, even though they die.’”
According to Famous Birthdays, the Spanish music legend married fellow musician Marietta Tevez in 1966. As per Soap Central, the couple had a “love at first sight” moment that led to them eventually tying the knot in 1966. The couple are parents to three children: Vanessa, Mariana and Niko.
A glimpse into Leo Dan’s career as Celia crooner passes away
Leo Dan, born Leopoldo Dante Tevez, has produced over 70 albums throughout his decades-long career. His music has traveled the world with him, amassing a large following, particularly in Spain, Colombia, Argentina, Peru, and Chile.
He signed his first recording contract with CBS at the young age of 20 and began to release a series of hitmakers like Celia, Fanny, Estelita, Libre solterito y sin nadie, and Come te extrano mi amor. His songs ended up becoming chart toppers, including the Billboard chart’s Top Latin Albums and Billboard 200.
Dan also dedicated a series of songs to his wife Marietta, like Mary Es Mi Amor, a romantic track that is based on their love story. As per Soap Central, the track follows their courtship and how it ended in them getting married just 20 days after they met.
Despite being part of the Nueva Ola music movement, his distinctive music style managed to set him apart in the Ibero-American music scene. He went on to bag a Lifetime Achievement award by The Latin Recording Academy during his career.
When Billboard asked him what makes a musician reach ‘legendary’ status, Dan said:
“Humanity, faith in God and knowing that all things will go well when he’s in your life.”
Leo Dan hosted his own TV show, Bajo el Signo de Leo. During the COVID-19 pandemic, he released a live album and the second part of Celebrando a Una Leyenda, revamping his 60s and 70s hits.
In January 2024, Leo Dan announced that he was retiring from performing at concerts, as per Cibercuba. However, he promised to perform at special concerts, which also included those in Arizona and Las Vegas.