The music world is mourning the loss of Marie Fredriksson, singer of Swedish pop rock duo Roxette, who passed away at age 61 after a long battle with cancer.
Fredriksson founded Roxette alongside Per Gessle in 1986, and it didn’t take them long to find success in their home country – and around the world. Their hit single “It Must Have Been Love” came out a year after band’s formation, and “Listen to Your Heart” quickly followed.
The band found an even bigger success with the 1991 track “Joyride”, which topped the charts everywhere from Sweden to the US. Fredriksson released several solo albums over the years, but that didn’t stop her from touring with Roxette on a regular basis.
Fredriksson decided to take a break from touring three years ago to focus on her health and passed away on December 9th in Djursholm, Sweden. Her musical partner Per Gessle described her as “an outstanding musician” and “the most wonderful friend” and thanked her for painting his songs in the most beautiful colors.
“I’m proud, honored and happy to have been able to share so much of your time, talent, warmth, generosity and sense of humor. All my love goes out to you and your family. Things will never be the same,” said Gessle in a statement.
