Award-Winning Latin Musician Omar Geles Died Suddenly at 57 Years Old
In the months leading up to Omar's death, he experienced multiple health issues that raised concerns.
Published May 22 2024, 10:22 a.m. ET
The world of Latin music lost one of its greats. On May 21, 2024, accordionist and composer Omar Geles died at 57 years old.
As a musician, Omar first got his start as part of a Colombia-based folk music group called Los Diablitos (The Little Devils) back in 1985. After leaving the group in 1991, he moved on to a solo career all while maintaining a close relationship with his former bandmates. Throughout his life, he received two nominations for Latin Grammy awards at the 11th and 13th ceremonies.
In the months leading up to his passing, however, he'd experienced multiple health issues that raised concern among fans and fellow musicians. What was his cause of death in the end? Let's break it down.
Omar Geles died in May 2024 after multiple health scares.
According to a statement from his PR representative Paul Bolaños (reported by El Nuevo Siglo), Omar was rushed to the hospital after suffering a heart attack while playing tennis at a country club. Reportedly, he died shortly after arriving.
Concerns for his health were already at a high leading up to his passing. Earlier in April, the accordionist had to cancel a performance in San Jose, Calif. due to severe chest and arm pain. Although he was discharged from his hospital stay after only mere hours, the experience still shook him. Shortly after, he tweeted about how grateful he was that he was to be alive at the time.
"I still have many songs to give you," he stated.
To that end, the singer had been posting on social media regularly up until his death. News of his passing has been met with an outpouring of condolences as fans remember Omar fondly for his major contributions to Latin American music.
Our thoughts go out to Omar Geles's loved ones during this difficult time.
