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The Latch

The Reactions to Mushroom Records Founder Michael Gudinski’s Death Prove What a Music Icon He Truly Was

March 2, 2021
Michael Gudinski
Getty

The Australian music industry was shocked and saddedned by the news that Michael Gudinksi had passed away at the age of 68, with the Mushroom Records founder leaving a sizable hole in the hearts of everyone who knew and worked with him.

Having created the record label in 1972, Gudinski worked closely with Aussie superstars Kylie Minogue and Jimmy Barnes and was instrumental in shaping the countries musical identity.

As the founder of Frontier Touring Group, Gudinski was also responsible for bringing countless international musical acts to our shores, allowing generarations of music lovers the chance to experience their favourite performers alongside fellow fans.

The vast cross-section of people who expressed their sadness at Gudinski’s passing served as a true testament to the music legend’s legacy, and a reminder of how much Australia has been able enjoy as a result of his tireless passion for music.

Michael Gudinski in 2015.

Oscar-winning actor Russel Crowe shared his thoughts on Twitter writing, “RIP Michael Gudinski. Seems almost impossible. A towering figure on the Australian cultural landscape.

“I’m not sure we ever agreed on anything, except maybe @edsheeran. Still didn’t stop us from being mates for 30 years. I’m going to miss him deeply. My love to his family,” while Sheeran himself kept it simple with an Instagram photo simply captioned, “I’ll miss you mate.”

Global superstar Minogue expressed her grief writing, “MICHAEL GUDINSKI – Legend. Legacy. LOVE. A Titan of the music industry. One of a kind and forever family to me.

“My heart is broken and I can’t believe he’s gone. Irreplaceable and unforgettable, I’ll always love you ‘The Big G’.”

Singer-songwriter Amy Shark paid tribute to the late icon with a Tweet reading, “Thank you for believing in us Michael Gudinski. What a sad day,” while fellow Australian artist Troy Cassar-Daley wrote, “Our hearts are heavy today in our house after hearing of Michael Gudinski’s passing, a complete one-off who lead with passion and dragged us all along for the musical rides he so often dreamed up.


“Sending love to Sue and his family, I can’t believe He’s gone RIP brother MG xx”

Even politicians weighed in on the loss with Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews telling reporters that Gudinski was “a wonderful Victorian, a great Australian — a very good friend of mine.”

“To Sue and the kids and to everyone who loved him, and by extension everyone who loves the fact that we are the live music capital of our nation, we send our love and support,” Andrews said.

“We think of him kindly and fondly. I will have more to say about how we celebrate his life soon.”

Meanwhile, opposition leader Anthony Albanese Tweeted, “Shocked and saddened to hear about the death of Michael Gudinski. We were both at the Oils gig in Sydney on Thursday. It’s hard to think of anyone who did more for Australian music than Michael. Vale.”

Condolences also came from across the seas, with the Foo Fighters — who have toured Australia numerous times, sharing a Tweet reading, “Thank You Michael Gudinski for giving us and countless others the best night of our lives.

“Over and over again. A true f—king legend. We will miss you dearly. Rock & Roll will miss you deeply.”

Bruce Springsteen also posted a statement to his Twitter account in which he called Gudinski “first, last, and always a music man.”

Mr Gudinski is survived by his wife Sue and two children, Kate Alexa and Matthew.

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