Final Goodbye to Emmanuel Marie: Seychelles Bids Farewell to Mr Music
VICTORIA, Seychelles — Family, friends, fellow artists, and national leaders gathered at the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception to bid a final farewell to celebrated Seychellois singer and composer Emmanuel Leonard Marie, affectionately known as ‘Mr Music’, whose work has left an indelible mark on the nation’s cultural heritage. The Emmanuel Marie funeral was attended by former President Wavel Ramkalawan and wife Linda Ramkalawan, former Vice-President Ahmed Afif and wife Stella Afif, along with many members of the public who came to honour the musical icon.
Born on June 12, 1965, Mr Marie leaves behind his wife Brigida Diaz Marie, daughter Emmaline, and adopted daughter Bellana. He was the third of five boys and spent much of his childhood in Bel Ombre. The renowned singer passed away in the early hours of Wednesday, April 15, 2026, at 4.45am at age 60. He often spoke with humour about losing sight in one eye, joking that his twin brother had taken it while they were still in their mother’s womb.
He pursued his education from primary through secondary school, later attending the National Youth Service and the Seychelles Polytechnic. At a pivotal moment in his studies, he faced a life-changing choice between continuing training to become a teacher or following his passion for music. Guided by love for the art, he chose music, a decision that defined his destiny and led to a remarkable career that influenced audiences both locally and internationally.
Mr Marie produced songs that resonated widely, and his influence extended beyond Seychelles, as he also lived in the United Arab Emirates and the Philippines. His work contributed significantly to the development of Seychellois popular music and the preservation of Creole musical traditions, earning him the affectionate title of Mr Music among his peers and fans.
Father Alcindor led the funeral service, which saw an outpouring of tributes from the artistic community and national leaders alike. Many speakers highlighted Mr Marie’s warmth, generosity, and dedication to his craft, noting that his music brought joy to countless Seychellois across generations and that his legacy would continue to inspire future musicians.
