Luciano Pavarotti, 1935–2007...

Luciano Pavarotti (October 12, 1935 – September 6, 2007) was an Italian tenor and one of the most popular contemporary vocal performers in the world of opera and across multiple musical genres. Known for his televised concerts, and as one of the Three Tenors, Pavarotti was also noted for his award-winning charity work for raising money on behalf of refugees and the Red Cross.

Pavarotti was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in July 2006 and required emergency surgery to remove the tumor. Shortly after surgery he was reported to be "recovering well." His remaining appearances for 2006 were canceled because of his ongoing cancer treatment; however, his management stated that it was anticipated that his farewell tour would resume in early 2007.

On Thursday, August 9, 2007, he was hospitalized for observation in his hometown of Modena, in Northern Italy, hospital officials there said. Hospital spokesman Alberto Greco declined to give the reason the 71-year-old tenor was hospitalized, but local daily Il Resto del Carlino reported that it was pneumonia. Announcement of his "imminent release" was made on August 15, 2007, but with no date cited. The report stated that he planned to return to recording his "sacred songs" and teaching his young pupils. On August 21, it was announced that he was being treated in the cancer ward, given tests related to his pancreatic cancer, and would not be released for another few days.

On September 5, 2007, Italy's AGI news agency reported that Luciano Pavarotti's health had deteriorated and the 71-year-old singer was in a "very serious condition". He was reported to be in and out of consciousness multiple times, suffering kidney failure.

Luciano Pavarotti died the morning of September 6, 2007 at home in Modena, Italy where he was surrounded by his wife and three older daughters. In an email statement, his manager, Terri Robson, wrote, "The Maestro fought a long, tough battle against the pancreatic cancer which eventually took his life. In fitting with the approach that characterized his life and work, he remained positive until finally succumbing to the last stages of his illness." In a text message to Reuters, Robson confirmed: "Luciano Pavarotti died one hour ago".

The Vienna State Opera and the Salzburg Festival Hall flew black flags in mourning. London's Royal Opera House issued a statement saying, "He was one of those rare artists who affected the lives of people across the globe, in all walks of life. Through his countless broadcasts, recordings and concerts, he introduced the extraordinary power of opera to people who perhaps would never have encountered opera and classical singing. In doing so, he enriched their lives. That will be his legacy."