01/07/2026 22:48 - Entretenimiento
Manuel "Manolo" Arjona, founding member and historic figure of the iconic Spanish pop group Locomía, passed away unexpectedly on Wednesday, July 1, 2026 at 58 years old at his residence in Viladecans, Barcelona, as confirmed by his bandmate Xavier Font to the EFE news agency.
Sources close to the family told Spanish media outlets El País and El Español that Arjona spent his final afternoon painting—a hobby he enjoyed in his daily life. He went to bed to rest and never woke up. Although an autopsy was performed, initial reports confirmed it was a sudden cardiac failure. His circle emphasized he had been living a very peaceful and healthy life.
For international readers unfamiliar with Locomía, this was not just a pop band—it was a cultural revolution that swept through Spain and Latin America in the late 1980s. Founded in the legendary party island of Ibiza, the group created a unique fusion of:
The original formation included Manuel "Manolo" Arjona alongside Xavier Font (creator), Luis Font, and Gard Passchier. They achieved multiple gold and platinum records with hits like "Locomia", "Rumba Samba Mambo", and their signature fan-based choreography style.
With Manuel Arjona's passing, four historic members of Locomía have now departed:
| Member | Year of Passing |
|---|---|
| Santos Blanco | 2018 |
| Frank Romero | 2018 |
| Francesc Picas | 2023 |
| Manuel Arjona | 2026 |
Francesc Picas was the band's lead vocalist, leaving an irreplaceable void when he passed in 2023.
Locomía's official account, managed by Xavier Font, published an emotional statement:
"Today a part of our heart has gone dark, but your light, Manolo, rises eternally to the sky. You were the soul, the movement, and the unconditional loyalty of a dream that began in Ibiza and changed our lives forever."
Juan Antonio Fuentes, another historic member, shared on social media:
"I'm losing an icon, a reference, a friend, a brother. Manolo, light for your journey. I share the pain with the family and send them infinite strength and love."
Carlos Armas expressed his profound sorrow:
"Friends, today I must share one of the saddest news I could imagine. My great friend and companion, Manolo Arjona, has embarked on the journey that, sooner or later, we will all take someday. He left too soon, leaving us an enormous void and depriving us of the company of one of the greatest, noblest, and most generous human beings I had the fortune to know. I had the immense honor of sharing some of the most important moments of my life with him, and I will forever keep his friendship, his kindness, and his smile in my heart. Safe travels, my friend."
For those outside the Spanish-speaking world, Locomía represents one of the most influential pop phenomena of late 20th century Hispanic culture. Their distinctive style combined danceable electronic music with a unique visual aesthetic featuring giant fans, elaborate hats, and memorable choreographies.
The band transcended borders and became a cultural phenomenon that defined a generation across Spain and Latin America. Their influence extended beyond music into fashion, dance, and popular culture, inspiring countless artists who followed.
Locomía emerged from the vibrant Ibiza nightlife scene, representing the hedonistic, colorful spirit of late 80s Spanish culture. Their success coincided with Spain's cultural renaissance following its democratic transition, making them symbols of a new, liberated Spanish identity.
Source: Pronto.com.ar | EFE News Agency
Alfredo S. Quiroga
