Frank Farian, the renowned founder of the iconic musical groups Milli Vanilli and Boney M, has sadly passed away. The German singer, songwriter, and producer’s family confirmed his peaceful passing at his Miami apartment on Tuesday. Frank Farian’s death comes two years after undergoing life-saving heart valve replacement surgery, during which he received a pig heart valve. Despite his claims of good health following the procedure, reports indicated that his condition had deteriorated, leading to weight loss and the use of a wheelchair and breathing equipment due to lung issues.
Key Takeaway
Frank Farian, the visionary behind Milli Vanilli and Boney M, has passed away at the age of 82. His contributions to the music industry, though marred by controversy, have left an indelible mark on pop culture.
Early Life and Career
Born Franz Reuther in western Germany in 1941, Frank Farian initially entered the music industry as a solo artist while also pursuing a career as a chef. In 1976, he made a significant impact on the music world by founding the disco vocal group Boney M, known for hits such as “Daddy Cool,” “Rasputin,” and “Mary’s Boy Child.”
Controversial Legacy
However, Frank Farian’s most controversial move came in the late ’80s when he established the R&B pop duo Milli Vanilli. The group, comprised of Fab Morvan and Rob Pilatus, achieved success with chart-topping songs like “Blame It On The Rain” and “Girl You Know It’s True.” Despite winning the Grammy for Best New Artist, their lip-synching scandal led to the Recording Academy rescinding the award.
Enduring Influence
Throughout his career, Frank Farian also collaborated with music legends such as Stevie Wonder and Meat Loaf, contributing to an estimated 800 million records sold worldwide. His impact on the music industry remains undeniable, and his legacy will continue to resonate for years to come.
