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Aurelio Martínez, Honduran Garifuna musician and politician, dies at 55

BBG News

Aurelio Martinez, a prominent figure known for his lifelong dedication to Garifuna music and who previously served as a congressman in Honduras, has passed away. His age at the time of his death was 55 years old.

Martínez’s official Facebook page confirmed his death and mourned the loss of the musician.

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the unfortunate death of Aurelio Martínez, a renowned musician, composer, and Garifuna activist. He passed away on March 17, 2025, following a plane crash near Roatán, Bay Islands, Honduras.

On Monday, just after takeoff, a compact commercial aircraft sadly plunged into the sea as it was heading to La Ceiba, Honduras, according to the Associated Press. Regrettably, Martínez was one of the 17 passengers on board and is believed to be one of at least 12 casualties in this unfortunate incident. The crash is now being probed by Honduran authorities.

Music

The well-known musician and guitarist, Andy Palacio, who was deeply respected for using his talent to preserve the endangered language and traditions of the Garifuna community in Belize, passed away. He became an influential cultural figure in Central America as a result.

Aurelio Martínez was not just an artist; he was a protector of the Garifuna legacy, a link between past and present, and a testament to cultural fortitude,” the official Facebook post stated. “His unique voice and skill on the guitar carried Garifuna music to some of the world’s most esteemed platforms, such as his groundbreaking NPR Music Tiny Desk performance, making him the first Honduran to participate in this renowned series.

The artist, being a part of the Garifuna community – an ethnically diverse group that traces its roots to both indigenous and African ancestors – is primarily based in Central America and certain Caribbean regions.

In the year 2005, Martínez switched professions and was the first Afro-Honduran to be elected to Honduras’ National Congress. During his tenure, one of his key focuses was to safeguard and bring attention to the Garifuna community. He served from 2006 until 2010.

After the demise of Belizean Garifuna musician Andy Palacio, Martínez resumed his musical journey, having collaborated with him during his entire professional span.

Martinez hails from the Gracias a Dios Department of Honduras, where he was born in 1969. His love for music blossomed early on in his life.

Music

The voices of women will be heard in celebration of the late Andy Palacio, a native of Belize and an up-and-coming talent, who passed away in January.

As a kid, I cherished simple playthings. My initial toy, crafted with my own hands, was a homemade guitar made from a reclaimed fishing rod’s wood. That was how I strummed my first chords, a memory I shared with Afropop Worldwide in 2006.

From a humble beginning at age 14, I bid farewell to my hometown, embarking on a musical journey that led me to join various ensembles. Eventually, I founded the group Lita Ariran, which catapulted us into releasing our debut album, “Songs of the Garifuna,” in 1995. Over time, I continued to produce albums and found myself gracing the 2007 Palacio album, “Wátina.” My final solo effort, “Darandi,” was shared with the world in 2017.

On Tuesday evening, StoneTree Records, a music label Martínez had collaborated with earlier, posted a message about the musician’s passing on their Facebook page.

We’re deeply saddened by the unexpected death of Aurelio, a dear friend and longtime musical partner for over 25 years. He was more than just an artist; he was a shining symbol of Garifuna culture, respected for his unyielding pride, dignity, and passion. His influence has reached far beyond our community, serving as a beacon of hope globally. While we’ve lost an irreplaceable cultural icon, Aurelio’s spirit will continue to inspire countless hearts through his music and his compassion.

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2025-03-20 02:01

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