Australian music legend Frank Ifield dies aged 86 as tributes pour in: 'May he rest in peace'

Australian music legend Frank Ifield dies aged 86 as tributes pour in: 'May he rest in peace'

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Lauren Williams

By Lauren Williams


Published: 20/05/2024

- 11:05

The singer helped give The Beatles their start in the industry after success of his own

Music legend Frank Ifield died peacefully in his sleep on Saturday night at the age of 86, with the sad news being shared on Facebook by his friend, music historian and journalist Glenn A. Baker.

Informing his 8,000 followers, he penned: "I just took a call from David Ifield, telling me that his brother FRANK IFIELD peacefully passed on this Saturday night, at age 86.


"There is so much to be said about this remarkable man, who had four number ones in Britain, three of them before the Beatles (who he had briefly supported him in concert).

"I Remember You became an indelible hit all around the world and a perfect signature song. It topped the UK charts for 7 weeks.

"This is not the time to say any more than my thoughts are with Frank's brothers and his wife Carole and to say how fortunate I was to see him earlier this year. I'm still gathering my thoughts."

Many shared their condolences with Baker and Ifield's family, with one user noting: "So sad. He was an innovator. And such a friendly, approachable guy with a wealth of great stories to tell."

Frank Ifield

Frank had a staggering career and helped The Beatles with their success

GETTY

"I’ll never forget you Frank & all the help & support over the years," another penned before a third added: "Legend. May his dear soul rest in peace."

A fourth expressed: "A wonderful man with a splendid voice who spread joy all around the world!"

"Condolences to his family, friends, and fans around the world," a fifth said before another commented: "My mum Pat absolutely loved Frank and had a stack of his records which I played over and over. Great voice and a lovely man. RIP." (sic)

Baker went on to share some images of Ifield with Alan Lancaster of Status Quo, Eric Burdon, John Rowles, Frankie Davidson, Mary Schneider, Nicki Gillis, Keith Potger, Wayne Horsburgh and Baker himself.

Frank Ifield and Carole Wood

Frank is survived by his wife Carole Wood and two children with ex-wife Gillian Bowden

GETTY

Ifield is survived by his wife Carole Wood and two children whom he shared with ex-wife Gillian Bowden.

The singer was born in England but grew up in Australia and boasted a glistening music career that began when he was just 13 years old, often listening to country music.

In 1986, Frank was diagnosed with pneumonia and underwent surgery to remove part of a lung, leaving his vocal chords damaged during the surgery, which prevented him from singing and yodelling for years.

By the time he was 19, he had released 44 records and was the top recording artist in Australia, New Zealand, and Tasmania.

Frank Ifield

Frank Ifield has died at the age of 86

GETTY

It was during this time in his career that he had The Beatles open for him, meaning the foursome from Liverpool were exposed to Frank's huge fanbase, helping to ignite their careers.

Taking a risk, Frank moved to London in 1959 and went on to release four number-one hits on the UK singles chart - his cover versions of the songs I Remember You, Lovesick Blues, The Wayward Wind and Confessin' That I Love You.

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