The music world has been devastated by the death of Kassav lead singer Jacob Desvarieux, who passed away on Friday, July 29, at the University Hospital of Abymes in Guadeloupe.

The band co-founder passed away from complications of COVID-19 days after he was hospitalized and placed in a medically-induced coma earlier this month.

Desvarieux, who died aged 65, was part of the Kassav band that performed at the 2020 Valentine’s Day concert in Kigali. The group is regarded as the most famous in the history of the genre.

His death shocked the world of music including fellow musicians and politicians among others.

Among popular figures that expressed distress about Desvarieux’s death include local artiste Christopher who shared the stage with him during last year’s concert in Kigali, Senegalese musician Youssou Ndour, Malian singer Salif Keita and French author Gale Faye, among many.

Below is how each of them reacted to his passing:

Youssou Ndour

The West Indies, Africa and music have just lost one of its greatest Ambassadors. Jacob, thanks to your art, you brought the West Indies closer to Africa. Dakar where you lived is crying to you. Goodbye friend.

Christopher

My heart aches to hear this sad news! Thank you for the good music, thank you for inspiring many of this young generation, we won't give up on the style. My deepest condolences to his family and to the Kassav team. Rest in peace king.

Gael Faye

We owe so much to Kassav, the biggest French music group. We owe so much to Jacob Desvarieux. Great sadness to learn of his disappearance. Infinite gratitude.

Salif Keita, Malian musician

Another legend has left us. All our condolences to his family, loved ones and fans of the legendary Kassav. Rest in peace Jacob.