Marie Fredriksson: Roxette Singer Dies at 61
Marie Fredriksson, singer for Roxette, has died. She was 61.
Fredriksson’s death was confirmed by her management to CNN. Fredriksson had been battling cancer for the past 17 years. She was first diagnoses with a brain tumor in 2002, when she had a seizure in her bathroom and suffered a cracked skull. A subsequent MRI scan revealed she had a brain tumour, and she was given a 25% chance of survival. She survived, but had health problems as a result of radiation therapy. She was able to perform until 2016, when she announced her retirement due to the effects of her illness.
Her family said in a statement: “It is with great sadness that we have to announce that one of our biggest and most beloved artists is gone.”
Roxette, the Swedish duo that also featured Per Gessle, is best known for their 1989 hits “The Look” and “Listen to Your Heart” as well as the 1990 hit “It Must Have Been Love,” which was featured in the film Pretty Woman. All three songs went to number one on the Billboard Hot 100 Chart.
In a statement about his late bandmate, Gessle said, “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.”
