Popular musician Tony ‘Bayzo’ Camilleri, renowned as the lead vocalist of The Malta Bums in the 60s and for his performances in rock opera Ġensna in the 80s has died at the age of 70.

Camilleri is perhaps most renowned for his rendition of L-Ewwel Tfajla li Ħabbejt which The Malta Bums released in 1973 and which has remained popular ever since. 

The announcement of Camilleri death last night prompted an outpouring of tributes on social media, with President Marie-Louise Coleiro Preca praising him for his contribution to Maltese music. 

Prime Minister Joseph Muscat described Bayzo as “one of Malta’s finest artists”, while Opposition leader Adrian Delia said his voice will continue living in the hearts of several Maltese people.

Culture minister Owen Bonnici hailed his “unique voice and gentle disposition”.

If the golden era of music in the Maltese language were to be a country, Bayzo would be its capital city,” Bonnici said.

Bayzo’s friend and fellow singer Paul Giordimaina said he and Ġensna producer Joe Galea were planning to visit the singer on Tuesday.  

“I called him to ask if we could meet up on Tuesday, but he was unable to speak to me. His wife then told me that he would call me back, but that phonecall never arrived.”

And the tributes kept pouring in…

Bayzo’s funeral will be held on Monday afternoon at the parish church of his hometown of St Paul’s Bay. 

Rest in peace, Tony ‘Bayzo’ Camilleri

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Tim Diacono

Tim is interested in the rapid evolution of human society and is passionate about justice, human rights and cutting-edge political debates. You can follow him on Instagram or Twitter/X at @timdiacono or reach out to him at [email protected]