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Mozambique: Chico António, beloved Mozambican music legend, dies at 66
12:39 CAT | 15 Jan 2024
Image: Folha de Maputo
Mozambican musician Chico António, a reference in the country’s traditional music, died today of illness at Maputo Central Hospital, according to several sources.
Former president of Mozambique Armando Guebuza recalled the importance of Chico António in the “construction of identity” of the country, in a post on the social network Facebook.
“Your music also strengthened our identity and our pride in being Mozambican. You will live forever in our memory. Rest in peace, friend Chico,” Guebuza wrote.
“He was an artist who gave us a lot of joy, especially in our roots music,” Guebuza added.
The Minister of Culture of Mozambique, Eldevina Materula, also lamented the musician’s death, saying he left “marks and assets” that will deserve the attention of future generations.
“We are in shock because we still believed that Chico had a lot to contribute with his art to enrich Mozambican culture,” reads the government official’s message.
Born in 1958 in Magude district, Maputo, Chico António stood out for musical composition based on traditional Mozambican rhythms, having been part of two emblematic Mozambican music bands: Grupo RM and Orquestra Marrabenta.
One of his most iconic songs – Baila Maria, with Mozambican singer Mingas – won the Discoveries prize from Radio France Internacional, a distinction that earned him a scholarship in the French capital.
Source: Lusa
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