Iconic singer dead at 93: ‘Universal legend’

The name Antonio Fernandez Diaz might not ring many bells for modern American music fans, but it carries major weight across the globe.

The legendary singer, known as “Fosforito,” became one of the “most emblematic and respected voices of flamenco,” according to La Voz de Ibiza.

And now he is gone.

“Fosforito” died on Nov. 13 in Malaga, according to the outlet. He was 93.

How good was he?

Well, he received a Golden Key for his flamenco singing, and just five of those have been issued since the award was first trotted out back in 1862.

News of his death had many taking to social media to remember him for his greatness.

“Maestro/friend FOSFORITO,” Miguel Poveda posted on X. “You leave our souls and hearts full of gratitude for your great singing, your values, humility, and an endless list of good deeds impossible to enumerate. Thank you for your respect and affection ALWAYS ‘from the beginning of time.’ I’m going to miss you so much.”

“Dear and admired master FOSFORITO. You leave behind a great void on a personal level, on an artistic level, and as a true Flamenco to the entire art, without exception,” Arcangle Flamenco posted on X. “No one like you has defended and professed such a deep and true love and dedicated to Flamenco. Rest, master.”

And his hometown in Spain, Puente Genil, also issued a statement.

“The City Council declares three days of #OfficialMourning for the passing of Mr. Antonio Fernandez Diaz, ‘Fosforito,’” the statement on X read. “Beloved son and universal legend of #Flamenco leaves an eternal human and artistic legacy. The flags will fly at half-mast in a gesture of respect and gratitude.”