Rob Hirst, the iconic drummer of the renowned Australian band Midnight Oil, has passed away at the age of 70. Hirst’s death follows a brave, nearly three-year battle with advanced pancreatic cancer. He died peacefully in the company of his family, as confirmed in a heartfelt post by the band on their official Facebook page.
Peter Garrett Leads Tributes to Rob Hirst
Peter Garrett, Midnight Oil’s frontman, expressed profound sorrow over Hirst’s passing. He described Hirst as a brother and shared that words could not capture the depth of their grief. Garrett emphasized Hirst’s legacy through the band’s music, stating, “There will always be songs.”
A Musical Legacy
Hirst was one of the founding members of Midnight Oil, which gained popularity in the 1970s. The band is well-known for its hits, including:
- “Power and the Passion” (1982)
- “Beds Are Burning” (1987)
- “Blue Sky Mine” (1990)
Hirst co-wrote many of these classic tracks, contributing significantly to the band’s reputation as rock musicians with a strong political message. His diagnosis of stage three pancreatic cancer came in 2023, shortly after their final concert at Sydney’s Hordern Pavilion.
Tributes from the Music Community
The music community has rallied to honor Hirst. Notable tributes have poured in from acclaimed artists. Jimmy Barnes, a stalwart of Australian rock, noted Hirst’s immense influence on Australian culture, recognizing his role as the driving force in one of the greatest live bands of all time. Dom Turner, guitarist from The Backsliders, shared his admiration for Hirst’s musical talents and described him as an energetic and humorous person who shared numerous adventures over their two-decade friendship.
Personal Reflections
Sean Sennett, a musician and journalist, fondly recalled his friendship with Hirst, highlighting their engaging conversations and shared experiences. Hirst’s active lifestyle remained evident even during his treatments, showcasing his indomitable spirit and love for life. Despite his illness, he expressed a desire to remain engaged with music and life, demonstrating resilience in the face of adversity.
A Lasting Impact
Hirst’s work extended beyond drumming; he was also an accomplished songwriter. He recently released an EP titled “A Hundred Years or More” in collaboration with Jim Moginie. This project underscored his musical creativity, exploring themes of life and legacy through various poignant tracks.
Throughout his illustrious career, Hirst’s talent was recognized by many, including drumming legends like Max Weinberg and Eddie Vedder, who both praised his exceptional skills. Hirst is survived by his wife, Lesley Holland, and their three daughters, Lexi, Ella, and Jay.
