Regrettably, Frank Farian, the renowned German music producer acclaimed for his iconic collaborations with Boney M in the 1970s, has passed away at the age of 82.
According to the Daily Mail, his representatives have officially confirmed the unfortunate news.
Farian’s profound influence on the music industry is undeniable, particularly for propelling Boney M to superstardom through hit singles such as ‘Daddy Cool,’ ‘Rasputin,’ and ‘Brown Girl in the Ring.’ His pioneering methods in music production not only defined the disco era but also left a lasting imprint on pop culture.
Hailing from Kirn, a charming town in rural southwestern Germany, Farian gained global acclaim for his extraordinary talents. At the time of his demise, he was residing in Miami, leaving behind a legacy that encompasses several decades.
Frank Farian with Milli Vanilli. Credit: Peter Bischoff / Stringer / Getty
A pivotal moment in Farian’s career was his involvement with the infamous Milli Vanilli, a boy band entangled in one of the music industry’s most notable scandals. The Grammy-award-winning duo faced severe criticism when it was exposed that they had been lip-syncing to their songs.
In a 2022 interview with Bild, Farian openly shared a significant chapter of his life, disclosing that he had undergone heart surgery. He had a “big heart valve” implanted in his chest to address age-related issues. Reflecting on his experience, he expressed gratitude, stating, “Today, I enjoy a good meal and am just happy that I’m still alive.”
Unfortunately, Farian’s health took a downturn after the surgery. He faced significant weight loss and, eventually, had to depend on a wheelchair and breathing equipment due to complications affecting his lungs.
Over the course of his illustrious career, Farian collaborated with legendary musicians such as Meat Loaf and Stevie Wonder, solidifying his enduring legacy in the annals of music history.
Frank Farian has died at the age of 82. Credit: United Archives / Getty
Farian’s journey to success was marked by its share of challenges. He once conveyed his astonishment at his own accomplishments, commenting, “The success was a huge surprise. I had always thought I wouldn’t make it. It didn’t look like it at first.”
In 2008, Farian went through a separation from his common-law wife and the mother of his children, former swimsuit model Chinya Onyewenjo.
In a 2012 interview, at the age of 70, the music producer disclosed that he was romantically involved with Angie, the best friend of his former partner Onyewenjo, who was 28 at the time. Farian humorously remarked, “She was too old and bitchy for me! Now she’s with her ugly lawyer, who looks like the Hunchback of Notre Dame. And I have my new princess. After this wife swap, all I can say is: Sometimes the world is just like that fair.”
Angie, also known as Princess Guyana, harbored aspirations for a singing career in her own right.
Farian’s demise signifies the conclusion of an era in the music industry, leaving behind a vibrant tapestry of musical accomplishments that resonate with fans around the globe.
