Rodriguez, born Sixto Rodriguez in Detroit in 1942, was an American singer-songwriter who achieved little recognition in his home country but became a cultural icon in South Africa. His debut album Cold Fact, released in 1970, showcased his poetic lyrics, gritty voice, and a unique blend of folk, rock, and psychedelia. Despite critical praise, the album flopped commercially in the U.S., and Rodriguez faded into obscurity.
Unbeknownst to him, Cold Fact became a massive underground hit in South Africa during the apartheid era. His songs—particularly “Sugar Man” and “I Wonder”—resonated deeply with anti-establishment youth, who saw him as a voice of protest and hope. Myths spread in South Africa that he had died tragically, adding to his mystique.
The 2012 documentary Searching for Sugar Man tells the remarkable story of two South African fans who set out to discover what really happened to Rodriguez. Their search led to the revelation that Rodriguez was alive and living a modest life in Detroit, unaware of his fame abroad. The film won an Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature and revived global interest in Rodriguez’s music.
Following the film’s release, Rodriguez experienced a late-career renaissance, touring internationally and receiving long-overdue recognition. His story is a powerful testament to the unpredictable nature of fame and the enduring power of music to connect across continents and generations. Rodriguez passed away in August 2023 at the age of 81, but his legacy lives on through his music and extraordinary life story.
Sandra Rodriguez, the daughter of Rodriguez will honour her father with shows in Australia with Howie Morgan in August 2025.
https://www.rodriguezstory.com
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