Sweden’s Marie Fredriksson, singer of the Roxette duo, died on Tuesday at the age of 61, her manager said. In a statement, he said she faced “17 years of a long battle with cancer.”
Per Gessle, a Roxette member, mourned Marie’s death in a message posted on social networks. “Not so long ago, we spent days and nights in my little apartment sharing impossible dreams. I’m honored to have shared your talent and generosity. Things will never be the same.”
Marie was born on May 30, 1958, in Sweden, and began her career when she became friends with her then future bandmate at Roxette, Per Gessle.
Popular Songs of Marie Fredriksson
In 1984, she began her solo career and, two years later, joined Per for the formation of the group.
Roxette’s hit songs include “Listen to your heart”, “It must have been love”, “Joyride”, “Dressed for success”, “How do you do!”, “Sleeping in my car”, “Dangerous” and “Fading like a flower”.
How Did Marie Fredriksson Die?
In 2002, Marie was diagnosed with severe brain cancer and underwent a long treatment. In 2009, the singer made a gradual return to the stage, following her musical commitments and fan encounters until 2016, when doctors asked her to stop the tour and devote herself to health care.
Marie was married to Mikael Bolyos and had two children, Josefin and Oscar. According to the statement, the family asked for respect at this time of pain. The singer’s funeral will be reserved for close family members only.
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. pic.twitter.com/CTegAUGrXG
— Per Gessle (@PartyPleaser) December 10, 2019