Australian band Midnight Oil shared the sad news on Tuesday that their dynamic drummer and co-founding member, Rob Hirst, has passed away at the age of 70. Hirst had been bravely battling health issues for nearly three years, and the band announced his peaceful passing, surrounded by loved ones, in a heartfelt Facebook post. The band also encouraged donations to charities dedicated to pancreatic cancer research and support.
Fellow bandmates Peter Garrett, Jim Moginie, and Martin Rotsey expressed their deep sorrow over the loss of their brother Rob, emphasizing that while words may fail them at this moment, the music will always endure.
Midnight Oil’s journey dates back to the early 1970s when the members resided in Sydney and Canberra. Their debut self-titled album was released domestically in 1978, followed by four more albums leading up to the socially conscious breakthrough album, “Diesel and Dust,” in 1987.
Known for their advocacy for Indigenous rights, Midnight Oil’s iconic track “Beds Are Burning” from “Diesel and Dust” soared to the top of the Canadian charts and reached the top 20 on the U.S. Billboard charts. Their live performances were electrifying, with frontman Peter Garrett’s towering presence and Rob Hirst’s thunderous drumming captivating audiences worldwide.
Hirst played a significant role in the band’s songwriting process, collaborating with Moginie on crafting most of the music while Garrett contributed as the primary lyricist. Throughout their career, Midnight Oil continued to release impactful albums, including “Blue Sky Mining” and “Earth and Sun and Moon,” solidifying their reputation with hits like “Blue Sky Mine,” “Forgotten Years,” “Truganini,” and “My Country.”
The band’s influence extended beyond music, as they joined forces with other artists like The Tragically Hip to raise awareness and funds for environmental causes. Despite challenges in the music industry due to technological advancements, Midnight Oil persevered, releasing albums and embarking on tours, with their latest album, “Resist,” hitting the shelves in 2022.
Tributes poured in from Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and fellow musicians, highlighting Hirst’s exceptional talent and unwavering spirit. Hirst’s battle with cancer was a testament to his resilience, with his legacy as a musician and advocate for justice deeply cherished by fans and peers alike.
