Mexican rock singer Salvador Aguilar Hurtado, known professionally as Xava Drago, died on 21 August after a battle with stomach cancer. He was 56, according to statements released by his family and by his band, Coda. Coda said in an official communiqué that its frontman passed away on Thursday morning and described him as “a warrior, intense and always passionate.” Earlier this month Drago had published a farewell note to fans, saying doctors had exhausted treatment options and that he was at peace with the outcome. Diagnosed with gastric cancer in 2024, Drago underwent surgery, chemotherapy and radiation. Although he briefly declared himself free of the disease in early 2025, the cancer returned in the spring and progressed rapidly. Drago’s voice defined Coda’s hard-rock sound in the 1990s on singles such as “Aún,” “Tócame” and “Veinte para las doce.” After a hiatus, the group reunited in 2012 and continued touring, while the singer also pursued solo projects. The band said details of public tributes and concerts in his honour will be announced later.