Marie Fredriksson, the singer of the Swedish pop-rock band, Roxette died on Monday. Aged 61, the singer who was one of the most recognisable pop voices of the ’80s and ’90s, had been battling cancer for a prolonged 17 years.
The Dimberg Jernberg agency said Marie died Monday “of the consequences of a long illness. It “is with great sorrow that we must inform you that one of the greatest and most-loved artists is gone,” the firm said.
Taking to social media, former bandmate Per Gessle said, ”Time goes by so quickly. It’s not that long ago we spent days+nights in my tiny apartment sharing impossible dreams. And what a dream we eventually got to share! I’m honoured to have met your talent+generosity. All my love goes to you+your family. Things will never be the same.”
The pair formed their band, Roxette in 1986 on the suggestion of a Swedish record executive, but it wasn’t until 1989 that they had three number 1 hits: Listen to Your Heart, Joyride, and It Must Have Been Love. The power ballad (It Must Have Been Love) also reached number 3 on the UK charts and was part of the soundtrack to Pretty Woman.
The singer was diagnosed with a brain tumour in 2002, from which she recovered. Roxette began performing again by 2009 and even made several records. However, Fredriksson was adviced to stop touring in 2016 and to prioritise her health.
She is survived by her husband, Mikael Bolyos, and their two children, Josefin and Oscar.