Latvian rock ’n’ roll legend Pete Anderson dies at 70

The Latvian 'king of rock’n’roll' Pits Andersons (Pete Anderson) has died at 70, reported LSM's Latvian-language service Wednesday via LETA.

He died from liposarcoma, a rare form of cancer. Last summer the musician had raised €21,000 from his fans to undergo treatment in Munich.

He was an authentic 50s-style rock legend together with The Swamp Shakers band in Latvia, instantly recognizable from his quiff and Buddy Holly glasses. If you were lucky you might even spot him cruising downtown Riga in a pink Cadillac convertible.

Music journalist Artemy Troicky has called Andersons the very first true rocker in the entire former Soviet Union.

His rebel-rousing concerts in the 1960s and 1970s are even considered to have played an important part in helping Latvians stand up to regain their freedom and independence.

In 2009 Andersons won the award for the best Rockabilly Album at Just Plain Folks Music Awards in the US, with his album titled Brass-A-Billy.

21-01-2016

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