Fans across the world have been left “gutted” following the passing of Australian music icon Frank Ifield at the age of 86.
Music journalist and friend Glenn A Baker took to social media to reveal Ifield passed away peacefully on Saturday, May 18.
“I just took a call from David Ifield, telling me that his brother FRANK IFIELD peacefully passed on this Saturday night, at age 86,” Baker wrote.
“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 support 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.”
Born November 30, 1937 in the UK, Ifield moved to Australia with his family in 1948 where he developed a passion for yodelling and country music.
After his grandmother gifted him a guitar at the age of 13, Ifield began writing his own songs and it wasn’t long before he found success in the music industry, releasing 44 records and becoming the top recording artist in Australia, New Zealand and Tasmania by the time he was 19.
Upon his return to the UK, Ifield found success with an impressive four number one hits on the UK singles chart: I Remember You, Lovesick Blues, The Wayward Wind and Confessin’ That I Love You.
In addition to his incredible success, Ifield was instrumental in introducing The Beatles to the world after he had them open for him while he was on tour.
Ifield’s musical legacy was honoured in 2009 when he was awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia.
As news broke of his passing, fans from around the world poured their hearts out on social media, sharing cherished memories and heartfelt tributes to honour Ifield’s legacy.
Ifield is survived by his wife Carole Wood, and two children from his previous marriage to Gillian Bowden.
-with BANG.