AceShowbiz - The Argentine guitarist Felipe Staiti, known as the lead guitarist and founding member of the iconic rock en español band Enanitos Verdes, passed away on Monday, April 13, at the age of 64.

Staiti had been hospitalized in Mendoza, Argentina, after suffering health complications that originated from a bacterial infection he reportedly contracted while in Mexico. The infection worsened due to preexisting medical conditions, as reported by the Argentine news outlet Clarín.

Enanitos Verdes, a band that recently performed at Mexico City's Vive Latino festival on March 14, confirmed the news of Staiti’s death on their official Instagram account on Tuesday. Their statement read: "It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of our beloved Felipe Staiti. His music, his dedication, and his story will remain forever with us and with all those who have been by his side over the years."

The band also noted that Staiti’s family expressed gratitude for the numerous calls and messages of support they have received during this difficult time.

Following the death of the band’s bassist and lead singer Marciano Cantero in 2022, Staiti had taken on the role of lead vocalist in addition to continuing as the lead guitarist. This transition allowed him to carry forward the group's legacy while working on new tours and projects.

Enanitos Verdes was formed in the late 1970s by Cantero, Staiti, and drummer Daniel Piccolo before expanding to include additional members. The band is celebrated for timeless Latin rock hits such as “Lamento Boliviano,” “La Muralla Verde,” and “Luz de Día.”

Last month, the group was featured in Billboard’s list of the 50 Greatest Latin Rock Bands of All Time (Staff Picks). Their success includes multiple appearances on Billboard charts, including Top Latin Albums for Pescado Original (No. 37), Tic Tac (No. 55), and En Vivo (No. 75), as well as Hot Latin Songs with “Mariposas” (No. 19) and their rendition of “Tu Cárcel” (No. 44).

Staiti was widely respected for his guitar skills and his contributions to the Latin rock genre. Beyond his work with Enanitos Verdes, he engaged in solo projects and experimented with various musical styles.

The passing of Felipe Staiti marks a significant loss for the Latin rock community and fans worldwide, as he was a driving creative force behind a band that shaped the genre for decades.

Below is the full statement from Enanitos Verdes regarding Staiti’s death, posted on their Instagram:

"It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of our beloved Felipe Staiti. His music, his dedication, and his story will remain forever with us and with all those who have been by his side over the years. Felipe's family wishes to express their gratitude for the outpouring of calls and messages of support they are receiving at this time."