Argentine folk legend Piero, whose “Mi Viejo” moved the world, dies at 81

Argentine legendary singer-songwriter Piero (81, born Piero Antonio Franco De Benedictis), whose distinctive clear and resonant voice moved the hearts of Latin music fans across generations, has died. He was 81.

■ Piero laid to rest in Buenos Aires: “His songs and message of peace will live forever”

News of Piero’s death in his hometown of Buenos Aires, Argentina, on the 7th local time was announced through his official Instagram and other social media accounts.

“It is with deep sadness that we announce the death of our beloved Piero at the age of 81,” his family and representatives said in a statement. “His voice and songs, as well as the message of peace he sought to share, will remain with us forever. His light will continue to shine wherever his music reaches.” They thanked fans for their messages of condolence and honored the singer with the words, “Travel peacefully, our beloved Piero.”

■ “Mi Viejo,” his timeless song to his father, earns place in Latin Grammy Hall of Fame

Born in Italy and brought to Argentina as a child, Piero rose to stardom with “Mi Viejo” (“My Father”), the title track of his 1969 debut album and a timeless classic.

Written with lyricist José Tcherkaski, the song is a moving epic expressing deep respect and affection for a father. It spread across South America soon after its release and became known as “South America’s greatest tribute song to fathers,” played at Father’s Day celebrations and birthday parties year after year. The song was inducted into the Latin Grammy Hall of Fame in 2007 in recognition of its musical significance.

Piero continued to win widespread affection as an artist who sang about social issues and peace and gave voice to the lives of ordinary people. In 2016, he received the Latin Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award in recognition of his contributions to the development of Latin music.

■ The final chapter of a 60-year musical career: Fans around the world pay tribute

As recently as June last year, when he turned 80, Piero held a tribute tour marking the 60th anniversary of his debut and his 80th birthday. Titled “Piero, Mi Querido Viejo” (“Piero, My Beloved Father”), the tour saw him share the stage with fans in an emotional final connection.