Jimmy Barnes honours Michael Gudinski with moving tribute on second anniversary of his death

Iconic singer Jimmy Barnes has marked the two-year anniversary of the death of Michael Gudinski with a heartfelt tribute to the Australian music legend.

Taking to social media, the 66-year-old musical powerhouse took to social media to share talk about the hole Gudinski’s death has left in the world.

“There is no one like Michael Gudinski,” he wrote on Facebook.

“He was a power house. He was a music giant. He took Australian music to the world but most importantly, he was my dear friend.

“It’s been two years since you left us. We miss you every day Michael.”

Fans of both the music industry icons flooded social media to join The Working Class Man singer in his tribute to Gudinski.

“His honesty and integrity in the music industry. Sadly missed but he’s etched into music history forever,” one user wrote.

“He changed and made the Australian music scene what it was. A huge loss but the memories he helped create for us all will never be forgotten.”

“Gone but never forgotten Michael, you were a huge ray of light for the Australian music industry,” commented another.

“I’ve always admired and respected you and always will. Thanks for putting Aussie musicians on the map. Anyone who loves music loves this great man. Always remembered”

“There will never be another like Michael in the Oz music industry. Two years already! Australia misses you a great deal, Mr Gudinski,” one fan said.

The Aussie music promoter and record label founder died at the age of 68, on March 2, 2021, with his company Mushroom Group announcing the sad news in a statement. 

“The much-loved Australian music legend died peacefully in his sleep at his home in Melbourne, Australia,” the statement read.

“Michael Gudinski was a key figure in shaping the Australian music industry.”

“He founded the Mushroom Group in 1972 at just 20 years old, which flourished into Australia’s largest independent entertainment group covering touring, record labels, publishing, merchandising, booking agencies, film and television production and creative services.

“Some of Australia’s most iconic albums have been released under one of his Mushroom Group record labels.

“His touring company Frontier Touring is Australia’s leading promoter, touring the biggest names in global music since its inception in 1979.”

Thanks to Gudinski, Australians have seen the likes of Bruce Springsteen, Elton John, and Dolly Parton among many other huge names, and watched the careers of Aussie artists such as Skyhooks, Split Enz and Jimmy Barnes flourish.