Francis Magalona a.k.a. "The Master Rapper" bid farewell for the last time last March 6, 2009. He succumbed to his "happy battle" with leukemia . He left behind his wife, Pia Arroyo and his eight kids - Unna, Nicolo, Francis Jr., Isabella, Elmo, Arkin, Clara, and Maxene. He was only 44.
Francis left behind a legacy of music, fashion, social awareness and patriotism. His music transcends all people be it the lowly- "masa" to the high elites, there was no social barrier to his music. He started as a rap artist back in the day when people don't really understand what rap is. And he opened up the rap/hip hop scene for all Filipinos. Many would attest his love for his music and more so for his country. He has helped so many aspiring and budding talents and put them under his wings. In his recent ventures he has also gone into photography, clothing and video directing. He has always propagated a sense of nationalism in all of his works, be it the lyrics of his songs and now messages in his own clothing line.
Today he will be cremated and laid to rest beside his parents (great actors - Pancho Magalona and Tita Duran). We will truly miss FrancisM. I am quite fortunate to have seen and be a part of his legacy.
Rest in Peace, FrancisM.....
