Romanian Balkan music icon Memiș Selciuc dies after collapsing on stage

Memiș Selciuc, a celebrated saxophonist hailed as an icon of Balkan music and the "legend of Turkish saxophone in Romania," has died after collapsing on stage during a performance.

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God rest his soul, truly the best Turk on the saxophone.

Selciuc fell ill shortly after performing with colleagues at an event on Thursday, June 11. Despite immediate first aid attempts and the arrival of medical personnel, he could not be revived. Local reports suggest a heart attack may have caused his death.

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I thought it was a bad joke on TikTok.

His unexpected passing has prompted an outpouring of grief and tributes from friends, fellow musicians, and fans. Viorica de la Clejani, a fellow artist, shared an emotional message recalling their early collaborations and years spent performing together. "Sad news... I can't believe you're gone, Selciuc. Great talent, great saxophonist, great artist!" she wrote, reminiscing about a song they recorded together 30 years ago that remains cherished by listeners. She added, "You left too soon, but you will always remain present through your music, through what you left behind and through the memories of those who knew and appreciated you. Have a peaceful journey to heaven, dear friend! May God rest your soul and grant you eternal light."

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Sad news… I can't believe you're gone, Selciuc. Great talent, great saxophonist, great artist! At the beginning, 30 years ago, I had the joy and honor to record a song together that remained alive in our souls and those of those who listened to it. Today, when I find out you are no longer among us, I feel a deep sadness. You left too soon, but you will always remain present through your music, through what you left behind and through the memories of those who knew and appreciated you. Have a peaceful journey to heaven, dear friend! May God rest your soul and grant you eternal light.

Close friend Liviu Puștiu also expressed his sorrow, emphasizing Selciuc's enduring legacy. "It's very hard to hear about a legend, a brother, a colleague you lived and played with your whole life. You were, are, and will be the legend of the Turkish saxophone in Romania and in all Balkan countries. Your name will continue to endure. May you be received into the kingdom of heaven. The greatest Turk with the saxophone of all time: SELCIUC THE LEGEND," he stated.

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It's very hard to hear about a legend, a brother, a colleague you lived and played with your whole life. You were, are, and will be the legend of the Turkish saxophone in Romania and in all Balkan countries. Your name will continue to endure. May you be received into the kingdom of heaven. The greatest Turk with the saxophone of all time: SELCIUC THE LEGEND.