Indio Solari, icon of Argentine rock, dies

The Argentine rock music scene is mourning the loss of Carlos Alberto "El Indio" Solari, who passed away Friday at the age of 77. Solari, a profoundly influential figure, died at his Buenos Aires residence after a protracted struggle with Parkinson's disease, according to a police report.

Born in Paraná in 1949, Solari rose to prominence in the 1970s in La Plata as the charismatic lead vocalist of Patricio Rey y sus Redonditos de Ricota. Alongside guitarist Skay Beilinson and "Negra" Poli, Solari led the band to become a unique socio-cultural movement through their self-managed approach and hermetic yet visceral lyrics. "Los Redondos," as they were known, created generational anthems and were famous for the "world's largest pogo" during performances of their iconic song “Ji ji ji.”

Following the band's dissolution in 2001, Solari embarked on an even larger solo career with his band Los Fundamentalistas del Aire Acondicionado. His concerts continued to draw hundreds of thousands of devoted fans, breaking attendance records across Argentina. His performances were legendary, solidifying his status as a rock icon.

The progression of his illness eventually forced Solari to retire from live performances after his historic and massive concert in Olavarría, Argentina, in 2017. Despite his absence from the stage, his mystical aura remained intact, sustained by his reflective and conceptual lyrics and his studio recordings, which continued to resonate with his dedicated fanbase.