BERLIN (SD) – A popular Somali singer died on Wednesday night in Germany, as a result of complications of COVID-19, Somali government confirmed.

Abdi Ali Bal’awan was admitted to a hospital in Germany’s Mainz town for respiratory system disease for a while before contracted the novel coronavirus disease.

Somali Minister of information Abukar Osman Dubbe said the legendary who was a former member of the Waaberi Band died at the hospital last night.

Through SONNA, the minister extended condolences to family and friends of the late Somali Artist saying “the Artist was one of the nation’s greatest innovators and left an unforgettable legacy for the Somali people.”

Beginning in the 1960s and through the 1970s, Bal’awan began making a name for himself in the Somali arts scene, performing in theatres and concerts throughout Somalia.

Bal’awan was a consummate musician and composer whose music enchanted many in the 1970s and 80s.