Renowned Myanmar composer Thaw Di Wai, who wrote many popular songs for famous singers including Lay Phyu’s hit “Alinn Yaung” (Light), has passed away at the age of 71.

According to guitarist Nyi Zaw, who shared the news on social media, Thaw Di Wai died of heart disease at around 4:30 p.m. on October 16 at Aung Thitsa Hospital in Pyin Oo Lwin.

Thaw Di Wai, a graduate of the Mandalay School of Fine Arts, was well known in Myanmar’s music industry for his poetic lyrics and unique musical style. In addition to “Alinn Yaung,” a song Lay Phyu once said had changed his musical life, Thaw Di Wai also composed songs for other prominent artists such as Harry Linn, A Nge, Sithu Lwin, Thiri, and Thiri Jay Maung Maung.

In 2018, a concert titled “Thaw Di Wai: Songs of Metal and Melody” was held at the National Theatre in Yangon, featuring performances by several well-known singers to honor his musical legacy.