John Farnham and his family have led tributes to iconic Australian music identity Glenn Wheatley, who died on Tuesday aged 74.
Key points:
- Glenn Wheatley was in the music industry for more than 50 years
- He is known for his creative partnership with John Farnham, and for discovering Delta Goodrem
- Wheatley's son remembered him as a family man, and said he "had time for everyone"
In a statement released today alongside one from the Wheatley family, the Farnhams said they were "devastated at the loss of our friend".
"We also obviously feel for his family as well," the statement read.
"We will miss you Glenn."
Wheatley had been in the music industry for more than 50 years.
He started out as a musician playing bass in 1960s rock band The Masters Apprentices, with hits such as Because I Love You and Turn Up Your Radio, and was responsible for reinvigorating Farnham's career as well as discovering Delta Goodrem.
It was under Wheatley's guidance that Farnham released the hugely successful 1986 album Whispering Jack.
It was the singer's most popular LP and remains the highest-selling album in Australia by an Australian artist.
Wheatley 'had time for everyone'
The statement said Wheatley had passed away surrounded by his wife of nearly four decades, Gaynor, his son Tim and daughters Kara and Samantha, and confirmed he had died from complications caused by COVID-19.
"[Glenn] had an enthusiasm that was unmatched and believed that anything was possible," the statement from Wheatley's family read.
"He gave everything to support projects he believed in, whether they were ultimately successful or not."
His son added: "He treated roadies, artists and fans with the same love and respect, and had time for everyone.
"He would leave Rod Laver Arena after a John Farnham concert and carry my amp into [St Kilda pub] the Espy.
'The rascal, the dreamer': Ceberano, Goodrem pay tribute
The news of Wheatley's death was met with grief from the Australian music industry.
In a statement posted to their Facebook page, The Masters Apprentices said they were "deeply saddened" by Wheatley's death.
"He has left his mark forever on Australian Music," they said.
Goodrem, who was discovered by Wheatley as a teenager, said he had "impacted the lives of so many".
"I am forever grateful for our time together in my early career," she wrote on Instagram.
"All my love and prayers are with his family."
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Kate Ceberano paid tribute to Wheatley on Twitter.
"Glenn the rock'n'roller, the rascal, the dreamer, the hustler, the optimist, the manager, the visionary. Deepest condolences to the Wheatley family," she wrote.
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Brisbane-born Wheatley was best known for his management skills and knack for spotting talent.
He managed Little River Band in the 1970s, when they became the first Australian-based band to achieve multi-platinum record sales in the US.
Former Little River Band member Glenn Shorrock also paid tribute to his longtime friend.
Shorrock told the ABC Wheatley would be greatly missed.
"He was a great negotiator and he was a great champion of Australian music, both here and, of course, overseas," he said.
"He thought Australian musicians were getting a raw deal, and we did get a raw deal in those days.
"He fought for better royalty rates and more money for struggling musicians."
ABC/AAP
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2022-02-02 04:22:17Z
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