A major figure in Malagasy music, Ramy Franck left behind a musical legacy that continues to resonate in collective memory. Ramy Franck, whose real name was François de Sales Rakotomanana, passed away on July 18 at the age of 86. Known as "Clo Clo gasy," he left an indelible mark on Malagasy culture.
A pioneer of Malagasy rhythm and blues in the 1970s and 1980s and founder of the Mélodie Jazz group, Ramy Franck distinguished himself through an original musical universe blending rhythm and blues, psychedelic rock, pop-rock, and Malagasy jazz fusion. Iconic songs like "Bibidia," "Mitandrema Ry Tanora," "Mama," "Nama," and "Zany d'Zany" marked his career. Recorded in 1972 with Mélodie Jazz under the Discomad label, "Vavaka ho anao ry Neny" remains one of his most emblematic works. Born while he was gravely ill in the hospital, this song became an essential part of Mother's Day celebrations, carrying special meaning for orphans.
For Rossy, Ramy Franck represented "a phenomenon" whose songs accompanied his childhood. "A monument has fallen. His songs cradled my childhood. 'Bibidia' echoed at Antanimbarinandriana during Army celebrations, fairs, and events. 'Vavaka ho anao ry Neny' is a poignant song for orphans, but it also pays tribute to all those mothers who raised children. I bow before his works, which will remain eternal," he testified, also saluting his son, Johanne Wilfried, a percussionist and worthy heir to this artistic legacy.
Randy Donny, a former journalist and admirer of the artist, highlighted his numerous innovations. "Musically, he was devoted to rhythm and blues, and his records, particularly 'Bibidia' and 'Nama,' testify to this. His arrangements were avant-garde for the time. On stage, he was the first to surround himself with dancers in the manner of Claude François. He was also a true showman, with staging inspired by James Brown and Johnny Hallyday."
Toubih Rands, a family member, remembers a passionate and deeply sociable man. "He had been ill for a long time and naturally slowed his activities with age. Yet he retained the desire to return to his former artistic pursuits and even made a comeback about a decade ago, participating in event organization and sound recording. When we were at his place and sang, he listened and watched us, just before telling us we weren't capable of creating a true atmosphere. He would then take his guitar and show us his talent, so fascinated were we. He was a man who loved taking care of himself, walking, meeting people, and helping. He was also a warm man and an excellent speaker, often called upon to speak at family ceremonies."
His commitment extended beyond music. During a singing competition in the 1970s, when most contestants performed songs in English or French, he chose to sing in Malagasy and won first place. He thus championed the valorization of cultural identity and encouraged young artists to find their own path. "You must seek and promote your cultural identity above all," he would repeat. As a pedagogue, he also told them: "Leave cigarettes, leave alcohol; here is the studio, a sacred place, make music."
A former soldier who fought in Algeria, a man of faith, and engaged in his community, Ramy Franck had received the title of Commander of the National Order. Ramy Franck's voice has faded, but his repertoire remains. His singular journey, his musical identity, and his attachment to Malagasy culture continue to nourish the memory of multiple generations. He will be buried today in his family tomb at Ambohitsararay, Ankadinandriana.