Iconic Melbourne blues musician Chris Wilson has passed away at 62.
Wilson featured in a number of collaborations with prominent Aussie acts including Paul Kelly, Hunters and Collectors, Harem Scarem and Sole Twisters. An active member of the Melbourne music scene, he released his 2012 record Live at Cherry, a handful of songs performed at Cherry Bar.
In August last year, a benefit concert was held at the Corner Hotel to provide financial support for Wilson’s family. Acts included Barb Waters, Barry Palmer, Steve Lucas, Kerri Simpson, Ash Davies, Jerome Smith, Tim Rogers, Matt Dwyer, Shane O’Mara, Dave Hogan, Jo Jo Smith and DJ Max Crawdaddy.
Around a similar time, guitarist and producer Jeff Lang wrote for Crikey about his deep friendship with the “gentleman of Australian blues”.
“It’s very sad I probably won’t hear him play again, won’t get to watch him own a stage and destroy a room again. But I’ve been so very lucky to have these memories and many others to carry with me as fuel,” Lang said.
A documentary was recently produced on the legacy of Wilson’s 1994 album, Live at the Continental. The short film outlines the friendship between Wilson and fellow Aussie musician Shane O’Mara, in addition to the love of playing a live gig.
RIP Chris Wilson x
Via Beat Mag.