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Daily Mirror
Daily Mirror
Entertainment
Daniel Bird

Rock legend Rita Lee dies as devastated son pays tribute to 'star in the sky'

Rita Lee, who was considered the Queen of Rock has died aged 75, it has been announced by her heartbroken loved ones.

The musician was "surrounded by the love of her entire family" when she passed away at her home in São Paulo, as she wanted, her relatives have shared, two years after she was diagnosed with lung cancer.

In a statement, her family said: "In this moment of deep sadness, the family appreciates everyone's affection and love."

Elsewhere, her son Joao paid tribute to his late mum who he said had "became a star in the sky".

He said: "What an intense and spectacular life you had. Admired and loved by so many people. So ahead of its time," alongside a video of Rita carrying him when he was a child.

Rita's death comes two years after she was diagnosed with lung cancer (AFP via Getty Images)

He went on to say: "The admiration I have for you is infinite. Was always. What an honour and privilege to be your son.

"What an honour and privilege to have been educated by you. Receive your values. I've never met a person like you. Your strength, your courage, your sense of justice, your genius, your sensitivity, your good humour and so many wonderful things.

"If I bring just a little bit of the joy and fun that you bring to the world, I'm already happy and fulfilled."

Joao added: "You rock. You are, yes, the queen of all this s**t. The world has lost one of the most unique and amazing people to ever live."

Rita was surrounded by her loved ones (BRAZIL PHOTO PRESS/AFP via Getty)

"I lost my mother. But you are eternal. Your legacy, your history and your art will live on forever. This is my lifelong mission. As long as I am alive and full of grace, you will continue to make a lot of people happy."

Fans have also taken to social media to pay tribute, with one writing: "RIP Rita Lee, enter the cabin and sunbathe."

A second commented: "THANK YOU FOR EVERYTHING RITA! you are an eternal inspiration of strength, courage and authenticity... I'm glad I could tell you how much I love you!!!!"

"Rita, my muse, thanks for everything. May your light continue to shine through all dimensions. Everlasting," wrote a third.

While a fourth typed: "Her legacy will forever remain in the history of Brazil. Long live Rita Lee!"

Rita is survived by her second husband Roberto and her three children (BRAZIL PHOTO PRESS/AFP via Getty)

"What a strange feeling to live in a world without your light, your talent, your search for freedom, your greatness... Biggest star ! How we'll miss you. Thank you for so much !!! May your shine continue here, illuminating yours. My deepest condolences to your children and your beloved Roberto!," gushed another.

Despite her title as the Queen of Rock, Rita claimed this was "tacky" and instead wished to be known as the "Patron Saint of Freedom".

She got her big break in the 1960s and had a colourful career after her music and life challenged the restrictions placed on the arts industry under the Brazilian military rule.

Just last year, she received the Lifetime Achievement Award at the Latin Grammy Awards.

She is survived by her children Joao, Beto and Antonio, as well as her second husband Roberto de Carvalho.

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