Piero, the Italian-born Argentine singer-songwriter whose music resonated across Latin America for decades, died on October 7, 2026, at age 81 in Buenos Aires.
His family and friends confirmed his passing in a social media statement. The cause of death was not publicly disclosed.
Born Piero Antonio Franco De Benedictis in Italy in 1945, he moved to Argentina as a child and developed a musical career that lasted more than six decades.
He became widely recognized for his 1969 song “Mi Viejo,” a heartfelt tribute to fathers that remains closely associated with his name. The recording became a familiar part of Latin American popular music, connecting with listeners across generations.
Beyond his romantic and family-centered songs, Piero addressed themes of peace, social justice, and political change. During Argentina’s military dictatorship, he spent time in exile in Spain and Colombia before returning to the country.
His contributions to Latin music earned him several honors, including a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Latin Recording Academy in 2016.
Piero leaves behind a catalog of songs that remain part of Latin America’s musical heritage.