Frank Farian, visionary behind Boney M and Milli Vanilli, passes away at 82

Iconic German music producer Frank Farian, the visionary behind Boney M and Milli Vanilli, has passed away at 82 in his Miami home, as confirmed by his family, per bbc.com

Born Franz Reuther in 1941, Farian’s multifaceted career spanned from training as a chef to achieving monumental success in the music industry. 

Boney M, founded in 1976, became a disco sensation with chart-toppers like “Daddy Cool” and “Rivers of Babylon”. Farian’s later venture, Milli Vanilli, faced a lip-synching scandal in 1990, leading to the revocation of their Grammy Award for best new artiste. Despite controversies, Farian’s impact on music is undeniable, with an estimated 800 million records sold worldwide. 

Farian Photo: Getty Images

In 2022, he disclosed undergoing life-saving heart surgery, showcasing his resilience. 

Farian’s legacy leaves an indelible mark on the music landscape, highlighting his enduring influence and the highs and lows of his storied career.

Subscribe to our Newsletter
Stay up-to-date