Mario Pergolini experienced a profound moment on live radio when he learned about the death of Carlos “Indio” Solari. The iconic musician and founder of Patricio Rey y sus Redonditos de Ricota passed away on Friday, June 5, at the age of 77 in his home in Parque Leloir, located in Ituzaingó. Interestingly, the news reached Pergolini during a broadcast dedicated to the musician, featuring songs from Solari’s band.
“I’m shocked by the news. It goes beyond just knowing him,” Pergolini said, his voice trembling. He awaited confirmation from sources like Infobae before announcing the sad news to his audience. After verifying the information, he decided to end the program early. “I believe this is someone too important for me, for Vorterix, and for everyone, to not reconsider today,” he remarked.
Mario Pergolini’s Connection to Indio Solari
Pergolini’s relationship with Solari transcended the typical journalist-source dynamic. He interviewed Solari multiple times throughout his career, both during the Redondos era and his solo works with Los Fundamentalistas del Aire Acondicionado. Their bond is illustrated in two documentaries produced by Vorterix, focused on Solari’s performances in Tandil.
Documentaries Highlighting Their Relationship
- Piedra que late: Released in 2013, this documentary featured a concert from December 3, 2011, attended by over 80,000 fans. It was created independently, with Solari’s permission under the condition that it wouldn’t be commercially exploited.
- Tsunami, un océano de gente: Launched in 2016, this sequel centered on a two-hour interview between Pergolini and Solari filmed before a concert on March 12, 2016, which attracted between 150,000 and 200,000 attendees, marking it as one of Argentina’s most significant musical events.
In this extensive interview, Solari discussed his health struggles, saying, “I think I confused many of the symptoms of this disease with claustrophobia,” in reference to Parkinson’s disease. That night, he addressed the audience, stating, “Parkinson is on my heels.” Pergolini noted Solari’s health challenges publicly, revealing, “He has a fight ahead. His body is hardening; he is taking many medications.”
A Lasting Legacy
On the day of Solari’s passing, Pergolini honored their personal connection by sharing a photo of himself with Solari. “This is someone I’ve shared part of my life with. I have childhood photos with him,” he reflected. To conclude the program, Pergolini played a Redondos track and offered a brief farewell: “May he rest in peace.”
Since retiring from live performances in 2017 after a concert in Olavarría, Solari indicated in 2023 that Parkinson’s progression prevented his return to the stage. His last public appearance was in January 2023, where he expressed gratitude for an honorary designation from the University of Buenos Aires (UBA).
