Legendary Argentine singer Leo Dan dead at 82

Revered singer and composer Leo Dan has died at the age of 82, his family announced in New Year’s Day posts across his social media accounts.

“This morning our beloved Leo Dan left his body in peace and with the love of his family,” the statement said in Spanish. “Thus, he returned to the pure light of his Heavenly Father, to guide us and take care of us from the infinite.”

It continued: “Today, January 1, 2025, we invite all those who were part of his story and who were touched by his legacy, to celebrate his love, his music and his life. With much peace in our hearts, we remember and feel his deep love… forever.”

The announcement, which was accompanied by a photo of the Argentine star holding a microphone, included the hashtag “#LeoDanForever,” and the Bible verse John 11:25: “Jesus said to her, ‘I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live, even though they die.'”

News of Dan’s passing has sparked a flood of tributes, many of which have been shared on the late musician’s Instagram story.

As part of his farewell tour, El Adios De Una Leyenda (Farewell to a Legend), Dan was due to perform concerts in Glendale, Arizona, and Las Vegas on February 14 and 16, respectively.

As of press time, a cause of death had not been publicly disclosed.

Who Was Leo Dan, and What Was He Most Famous For?

Born Leopoldo Dante Tévez in the Argentine city Santiago del Estero, Dan embarked on his music career in the early 1960s, signing his first contract with CBS. The track “Celia” was his early breakout hit.

Over the years, he became a major force in Latin music and released a string of enduring hits, including “Mary Es Mi Amor,” “Que Tiene La Niña,” “Pídeme La Luna,” “Libre, Solterito y Sin Nadie,” “Esa Pared,” “Cómo Te Extraño Mi Amor” and “Te He Prometido.”

Dan’s storied career saw him receive a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Latin Recording Academy in 2012.

With the advent of streaming, Dan drew in a new generation of fans. He also worked with a number of younger artists as a result of his enduring legacy.

“I’m lucky that many modern, new artists are reaching out to me to either sing my songs or record with me, and that’s filling me with pride,” he told Billboard in 2020.

When asked what makes a legend, he told the publication, “Humility, faith in God, and knowing that all things will go well when he’s in your life.”

In celebration of his legacy, which includes the recording of more than 1,000 songs, Dan embarked on a farewell tour in 2024.

Who Was Leo Dan’s Wife, and Did They Have Children Together?

Dan married Marietta Tévez, who was also a musician in Argentina, in 1966. According to reports, he said that when the two met, it was “love at first sight.”

Over the years, Tévez has been cited as an inspiration behind much of her husband’s music. He reportedly dedicated the hit “Mary Es Mi Amor” to her. The track tells the story of two people who quickly fall in love.

During their marriage, the couple had three children: Vanessa, Mariana and Niko.