Searching for Sugar Man subject Rodriguez dies at 81

Rodriguez, the subject of the 2012 Oscar-winning documentary Searching for Sugar Man, has passed away at the age of 81. The news of Rodriguez’s death was announced on the official webpage and on Facebook with the following message: “It is with great sadness that we at Sugarman.org announce that Sixto Diaz Rodriguez has passed away earlier today. We extend our most heartfelt condolences to his daughters – Sandra, Eva and Regan – and to all his family. Rodriguez was 81 years old. May His Dear Soul Rest In Peace.”

Rodriguez – whose full name was Sixto Diaz Rodriguez – may have been most famous at one point for being practically untraceable outside of the mainstream. Indeed, the hunt led by two die-hard fans (Stephen “Sugar” Segerman and Craig Bartholomew Strydom) inspired the aforementioned Searching for Sugar Man which renewed interest in the music career of Rodriguez. 

In his career, Rodriguez only recorded two albums, with the first song on his debut album, 1970’s “Cold Fact”, inspiring the title of Searching for Sugar Man. But that and the 1971 follow-up “Coming from Reality” gained popularity – albeit still for a niche audience – after Malik Bendjelloul’s doc was released. So, too, did Rodriguez himself, appearing on late night talk shows, turning up on the festival circuit and seeing album reissues soon after Searching for Sugar Man made its impression. This was by far the most attention Rodriguez had ever gotten in his native U.S. (he was born in Detroit and even ran for mayor in 1981), having found much more success in South Africa, Australia and more, recording live albums there over the course of his career.

Backed by the incredible journey and sheer talent of Rodriguez, Searching for Sugar Man remains one of the best-reviewed documentaries ever, holding a 95% on Rotten Tomatoes. In addition to winning the Academy Award, it also earned accolades from the DGA, WGA, the BAFTAS, and many more. Rodriguez did not attend that year’s Academy Awards ceremony, saying he did not want to take the spotlight away from the filmmakers.

Did you discover Rodriguez’s music after seeing Searching for Sugar Man? What is your favorite song of his?

Leave your condolences for the sugar man himself, Rodriguez, in the comments section below.