Leading electronic music artist manager Leticia van Riel has died. The news has triggered an outpouring of grief across the global techno community, with artists including Sama Abdulhadi, ANNA, Victor Ruiz and VE/RA sharing emotional tributes.
Van Riel spent years working with some of the most influential names in modern techno, building careers, opening doors and connecting artists across the international circuit. As a result, the loss is being felt by both the artists she represented and the wider community she helped shape.
Sama Abdulhadi, who worked with van Riel for seven years, shared a deeply personal message. “I just really don’t know what to write to express how I’m feeling. Leticia was one of the most beautiful souls in this world,” she wrote. “She wasn’t just my manager, she was my friend, my support and my family.”
Abdulhadi continued: “We have been through a lot in the past 7 years. I really can’t imagine life without her. Everything in life reminds me of her, even the way I prep for a gig reminds me of her. She was always there for everyone.”
She added: “It’s so sad you had to go so soon my love. Rest in peace and power my love I am going to miss you a lot. You will always live in my heart. And in the music. Thank you for everything and for always being by my side.”
In light of the loss, Sama Abdulhadi also confirmed she has cancelled her performance at Beyond The Pale Festival in Ireland. “Following the heartbreaking passing of my co-manager and dear friend, Leticia, I’ve had to make the decision to cancel my performance tomorrow,” she wrote. “This is an incredibly painful time for all of us, and while I was truly looking forward to playing for you, right now I need to be with my team and loved ones.”
ANNA shared an equally personal message, reflecting on years of friendship and the final dinner they shared together. “We have sooooo many memories together… fun, emotional, transformational. But this picture will forever be the most significant one to me,” she wrote.
“Just a few days before your passing, life gave us one last precious gift: a few hours together, talking about the things that mattered most to us, enjoying each other’s company and the deep soul bond we shared, and we both left feeling so happy and with so much love from that dinner… you can’t understand how grateful I am for this gift.”
She added: “I am so proud of everything we built together, and how we always made sure the world knew how important we were to each other. ANNA could never have happened without you, and our friendship and journey together became part of that story. Not having your presence here with us anymore, and not being able to share life’s moments with you, hurts deeply. But I can feel you so strongly. I know your soul is in a beautiful place, continuing its journey, and that brings me peace. I will love you forever. Until the next one.”
Victor Ruiz wrote a long, emotional tribute reflecting on her warmth and the role she played in his career. “Leti, I don’t even know how to start writing this. The pain is too strong. The void is too big. Life will never be the same,” he shared.
“Thank you for helping so many people around you, myself included. You helped and connected so many people because that is your essence. And that we shall carry it in our hearts forever. Man, you were a vibe! And everyone that knows you can say the same. You knew how to bring the party even when you wanted to pretend you were too serious.”
Ruiz also reflected on her mentorship. “Thanks for pushing me and trusting me when I didn’t. Not just in my career. Those years of self doubt were way smoother knowing you had my back. I know tough times will lie ahead and just thinking you won’t be around hurts like hell, but I’ll do my best on doing what you always inspired me to do: helping and connecting people.”
He closed: “It’s interesting how you always wanted to become a mother but little do you know you’ve been a big mother to all of us that you helped so wholeheartedly. Thank you for your friendship and for everything you did for this world. You changed it for the better. Love and miss you!”
Producer VE/RA also paid tribute, sharing a photo with van Riel alongside a brief but heartfelt message: “Still can’t believe what happened to you. Thanks for everything, we will miss you.”
Our deepest condolences go out to Leticia van Riel‘s family, the artists she worked with, and everyone who knew her. Her impact on electronic music — through the careers she shaped, the people she connected and the friendships she built — will be remembered for years to come.
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