Cape Town - Marie Fredriksson of Roxette has died at age 61.
She died on Monday following a 17-year long battle with cancer.
In 1984 Marie teamed with Per Gessle and formed Roxette.
"Thanks for painting my black and white songs in the most beautiful colours. You were the most wonderful friend for over 40 years," Per said in a statement.
In 2002, Marie was diagnosed with a severe brain tumour, receiving an aggressive treatment that took its toll but ultimately was successful.
By 2016 Marie's doctors advised her to stop touring and focus on her health.
The groups's final performance was at Grand Arena in Cape Town, South Africa on 8 February.
SEE PHOTOS FROM THE FINAL PERFORMANCE HERE
According to an official statement by Dimberg Jernberg Management, Marie's husband Mikael Bolyos and her two children Josefin and Oscar ask for respect in their grief. The funeral will take place in silence with only Marie's closest family present.
Compiled by Graye Morkel