Madagascar: MUSIC – Death of bassist Mikakely

After fighting against his critical condition, a consequence of a stroke in January, Mikakely passed away yesterday at HJRA Ampefiloha, at the age of 47. The music world is plunged into deep sadness.

Malagasy music is in mourning. Yesterday, sad news shook the music world: bassist Brice Mick Angelo Raoel, known as Mikakely, passed away at HJRA Ampefiloha after nearly two months in critical condition following a stroke. His battle against this illness led him to undergo a third operation, but unfortunately he did not survive to undergo the fourth, aimed at removing the valve on his neck.

Touching tributes are pouring in from all sides, testifying to the profound impact Mikakely had on his fellow musicians and friends. “Rest in peace Mikakely. We will always remember the moments we shared and we will continue what we started with him,” shares Samoela. “Mikakely was really cool and funny. His style in musical arrangement inspired me a lot, and we worked on several projects together, notably with the group Zay,” highlights musician Tsanta Randriamihajasoa.

Even a day before his death, artists mobilized to organize a show to support Mikakely in his hospitalization expenses at M’lam Manakambahiny. Unfortunately, he passed away the next day. Mikakely flew away, leaving a widow and three orphans as well as a grandson.

Dedicated Musician

Since childhood, Mikakely was destined for a life dedicated to music. He began his career as a musician in church, where his exceptional talent quickly caught the attention.

His time with iconic groups like Hasina, Nanie, and Imagine, where he worked with renowned artists like Jeannot and Eric Tahiana, left a lasting impression. But it was with groups like Zay and Samoëla that Mikakely reached the pinnacle of his career, leaving his mark in every musical arrangement and every note played. “Mikakely dedicated his life to music, even founding his own recording studio. Our children follow our musical footsteps, with our son being a drummer and our daughter having her own singing group, Kessie,” testifies his wife, Hantavololona Miaramanana Razanamahefa.

Mikakely will be laid to rest on Wednesday in Manandriana Avaradrano.

Nicole Rafalimananjara