Daniel Buira, the founding drummer of the iconic Argentine rock band Los Piojos and a celebrated figure in the country’s percussion scene, has died at the age of 54. The news, which broke on Saturday, March 21, 2026, has prompted an outpouring of grief from fellow musicians and fans alike.
Buira passed away at his percussion school, La Chilinga, located in Ciudad Jardín, in the partido of Tres de Febrero, after suffering a heart attack, according to reports. He founded La Chilinga nearly 30 years ago and it became a renowned institution, collaborating with Los Piojos on the hit song “Verano del 92” and hosting performances by many of Argentina’s leading artists.
Andrés Ciro Martínez, the lead singer of Los Piojos, shared a heartfelt tribute on social media. “Goodbye Dani. What pain to wake up to this news. You left too soon,” he wrote. “There was so much left to live and do. But you gave so much.” Martínez continued, reflecting on their recent reunion, “We were lucky enough to play together again. To be Los Piojos live on stage again. You waited in silence for 25 years. And you deeply enjoyed it.”
He added, “I see images overlapping. I will always see you behind the patches. With your joking laughter. Your repeated phrases. Playing whatever you feel like. A percussionist with a drum kit. A creative. An Artist.” Martínez concluded his message with a poignant farewell: “I embrace you here under the rain, from the Uruguayan shore, which inspired us so much. My heartfelt condolences to your family, from me and all the people of Los Persas. We will miss you. Let the drums sound from above. Draw, Maestro!”
Buira was a key member of Los Piojos from their formation until 1999, and he rejoined the band for their highly successful reunion concerts in 2024 and 2025. The band’s return was a major cultural event in Argentina, drawing large crowds and reigniting a passion for their music among longtime fans and a new generation of listeners. The news of his passing underscores the profound impact he had on the Argentine rock landscape.
Independiente, a prominent Argentine football club, also expressed their condolences, acknowledging Buira’s passion for both football and rock music. The club’s message highlighted the connection between the two cultural forces in Argentina and the loss felt by fans of both.
