Vale: Chrissy Amphlett
Forthright singer Chrissy Amphlett, who fronted the Divinyls, has died, aged 53.
- Published by David Knox
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Forthright singer Chrissy Amphlett, who fronted the Divinyls from through the 1980s and 1990s, has died, aged 53.
Her passing followed battles with both breast cancer and multiple sclerosis.
Often referred to as Australia’s “Queen of Rock,” Amphlett was best known as singer of such hits as I Touch Myself, Pleasure and Pain and Boys in Town.
In addition to her many appearances on Countdown, Spicks and Specks, RocKwiz, rage, Enough Rope with Andrew Denton, and Talkin’ ‘Bout Your Generation, she acted in the 1984 ABC rock series Sweet and Sour and the film Monkey Grip. She also played the rule of Judy Garland in The Boy from Oz musical and appeared in the musical Blood Brothers.
Amphlett talked about her battle with MS on Sunday Night in April 2012, a story which was recognised by the National Press Club.
Her cousin, Patricia “Little Pattie” Thompson said today:
“Our beloved Chrissy peacefully made her transition this morning.
“Christine Joy Amphlett succumbed to the effects of breast cancer and multiple sclerosis, diseases she vigorously fought with exceptional bravery and dignity.
“She passed gently, in her sleep, surrounded by close friends and family, including husband of fourteen years, musician Charley Drayton, her sister, Leigh, nephew, Matt, and cousin Patricia Thompson (“Little Pattie”).
“Chrissy’s light burns so very brightly.
“Hers was a life of passion and creativity; she always lived it to the fullest.
“With her force of character and vocal strength she paved the way for strong, sexy, outspoken women.
“Best remembered as the lead singer of the ARIA Hall of Fame inductee, Divinyls, last month she was named one of Australia’s top ten singers of all time.
“Chrissy expressed hope that her worldwide hit “I Touch Myself” would remind women to perform annual breast examinations.
“Chrissy was a true pioneer and a treasure to all whose lives her music and spirit touched.”
10 Responses
Sad to hear of the death of Chrissy Amphlett. A really great performer. My thoughts are with her family and friends at this sad time.
RIP Chrissy.
A true old school rocker. Thanks for some great memories Chrissy.
A huge loss to the industry. An iconic performer. She exuded star quality and immense bravura. Indelible imprint on music and culture.
Amazing live act. I saw her numerous times, but I remember mostly the time at the Thebby where a punter put his beer glass on the stage and she got very annoyed and kicked it at him.
Had the wonderful opportunity to work with her during Boy From Oz and she was wonderful, a true professional and a legend.
No one seems to have mentioned the work she did as a songwriter for others?
RIP
Aw, that sucks. Saw the Divinyls live a while back and they were great but, very much like Suzie Quatro, Chrissie was very much central to the performance.
Wow so unexpected the weird thing is last night I was actually watching her on YouTube rip chrissy
Chrissy said that donning the school-girl uniform and the suspenders changed her. It certainly changed me too! Thanks for everything. RIP
My older sister got me into the Divinyls and i was lucky enough to meet her once a few years ago. I don’t think she’d mind me calling her a fierce bitch, cause that’s what she was. Turned heads wherever she went.
So glad I saw The Divinyls a few times back in the 80’s, amazingly powerful live act!
This is such sad news from someone who truly is an Australian rock legend and to be taken away so young. The Divinyls was one of Australia’s best bands and her legacy will never be forgotten by her many fans. May she RIP.