Kenyan-born British folk singer Roger Whittaker, famous for his 1982 hit song “My Land is Kenya” and expert whistling, has died aged 87.

Whittaker was born in Nairobi, Kenya, in 1936 to English parents. He began his music career in the early 1960s, singing in folk clubs in Wales while studying zoology, biochemistry, and marine biology at the University of Bangor.

In 1962, he released his debut album, “Roger Whittaker Sings for You,” which was a critical and commercial success. He went on to release over 30 albums over the course of his career, selling nearly 50 million records worldwide.

Whittaker was known for his wide-ranging repertoire, which included folk songs, pop ballads, and even country music. He was also a gifted whistler, and his whistling solos were a highlight of his live shows.

Some of Whittaker’s most popular hits include “Durham Town,” “The Last Farewell,” “New World in the Morning,” and his 1982 version of “Wind Beneath My Wings.” He also recorded several albums of Christmas music, which were very popular in Germany.

Whittaker retired from singing in 2012, after a very successful career. He died on September 13, 2023, at the age of 87, in a hospital in southern France, where he had settled with his wife, Natalie.

Whittaker was a beloved figure in the world of folk music, and his music will be enjoyed by fans for many years to come. He was a true icon of the genre, and his legacy will live on.

In addition to his musical career, Whittaker was also a passionate advocate for conservation and environmental protection. He was a patron of the Kenya Wildlife Service, and he worked to raise awareness of the importance of protecting Kenya’s wildlife and natural resources.

Whittaker was a complex and fascinating man, and his life was full of both joy and tragedy. He was a gifted musician, a loving husband and father, and a dedicated environmentalist. He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and fans all over the world.