Death: Government highlights legacy and human value of Romeo di Lurdis
The Minister of Culture, Augusto Veiga, today highlighted the artistic and human legacy left by Romeu di Lurdis, stressing that the musician will be remembered not only for his songs, but also for his example of citizenship and social commitment.
Speaking to Inforpress on the sidelines of the funeral ceremony, held today in the city of Praia, the government official said that Romeu di Lurdis "sang Cape Verde with authenticity and love" and that his work represents "a testimony to national identity and pride".
"He was a serene, educated man who used music to express his love for his city, Praia, and his country. His lyrics had depth and a genuine connection with the people," said Augusto Veiga.
The minister also considered that the artist's disappearance "leaves a gap that is hard to fill", but believes that popular and institutional recognition of his contribution "will become even more evident with time".
The minister also guaranteed that the executive will pay him a public tribute "commensurate with his value and his commitment to the country", assuring that the official recognition will take place "in due course and with all due dignity".
"The government will pay him the tribute he deserves, with dignity and respect, in recognition of his dedication and the value of his work", he assured.
Augusto Veiga ended with a message of solidarity to his family and friends, recalling that Romeu di Lurdis "will always be part of Cape Verde's cultural history".
The musician, composer, performer and social activist Romeu di Lurdis, 36, died last Thursday, 09, in Portugal, the victim of a heart attack, where he had recently traveled for a musical concert scheduled for Saturday, October 11, at the Damaia Church Auditorium.
He is known for his songs, such as "Ranja ku mi, Txitxaru Fresku, Barku di Alentu, Fera na Sukupira, Nha Rubera, Midjor Mai di Mundu, Imigrason, Sonhu Sufridu, Amargura, Vida di Studanti, Paraízu Praia, Tirsidjadu, Boita na fazenda and Mudjer".
Romeu di Lurdis released his latest album in January this year, entitled "Kuraçon Aberto", five years after recording his first album "Amoransa".
In addition to his presence in the musical field, and in the field of poetry and social action, Carlos Manuel Tavares Lopes, official name Romeu di Lurdis, had a stint in politics, as he ran for two local elections, to the Praia City Council, as leader of the Partido do Trabalho e da Solidariedade (PTS).
Inforpress/End
