Willy Cruz: His music lives on
Original Pilipino Music composer Willy Cruz passed away on Easter Sunday, April 16, at the St. Luke's Hospital after he suffered a stroke last week. He was 70.
This was confirmed by Magdalena "Bong" Africa, sister of Cruz, to ABS-CBN News on April 17. She said that her brother had been in comatose at the hospital.
Interment details for her brother are still being finalized pending the arrival of some of their relatives from Europe, she added.
Cruz has composed many popular OPM songs such as "Butuing Walang Ningning," "Kahit Na," "Kumusta Ka," "Never Ever Say Goodbye," "May Minamahal," "Kay Tagal," "Kahit Konting Pagtingin," etc.
He also founded Jem Recording company which was home to some OPM artists such as Hajji Alejandro, Nonoy Zuniga and Zsa Zsa Padilla.
Cruz made his last public appearance at Eastwood Walk of Fame in Quezon City where he was given his own star.
OPM artists paid tribute to the music of the prolific composer.
"Rest in God's loving arms, Willy Cruz. You have left such a legacy of amazing music to remember you by," said Broadway star Lea Salonga on Twitter.
"RIP Mr. Willy Cruz. Ty for the wonderful music that you have created for the Filipinos," said singer-composer Ogie Alcasid.
"RIP Willy Cruz... I may have not met you or worked with you but your songs were part of our lives," said singer Jed Madela.
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