Australian rock band Midnight Oil made an announcement on Tuesday revealing the passing of their esteemed drummer and co-founding member, Rob Hirst, at the age of 70. The band shared on Facebook that Hirst had bravely battled for nearly three years and had now found relief from pain. The post also urged donations to charities dedicated to pancreatic cancer research and support.
Peter Garrett, Jim Moginie, and Martin Rotsey, the band’s longstanding members, expressed their deep sorrow in another social media post, mourning the loss of their bandmate. Reflecting on their journey, they emphasized the enduring presence of their music.
Midnight Oil traces its roots back to the early 1970s when the band members resided in Sydney and Canberra. Their first album, released in 1978, marked the beginning of their musical journey. It was not until the release of “Diesel and Dust” in 1987 that the band gained international recognition for their socially conscious music.
The band’s advocacy for Indigenous rights was exemplified in their hit song “Beds Are Burning” from the album “Diesel and Dust,” which topped charts in Canada and reached the top 20 on the U.S. Billboard charts. Their live performances were renowned for their energy, with Garrett’s dynamic stage presence complemented by Hirst’s powerful drumming.
Hirst played a significant role in crafting the band’s music, collaborating with Moginie on composing most of the songs, while Garrett focused on the lyrics. The band’s popularity extended to Canada, where they participated in a festival organized by The Tragically Hip in 1993.
Despite challenges posed by the digital age, Midnight Oil continued to release albums until 2002. Garrett later ventured into politics, serving as a prominent figure in the Australian government. Meanwhile, Hirst remained active in music, contributing to various projects and albums.
The band’s most recent album, “Resist,” was released in 2022, and they embarked on a global tour to promote it. Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese paid tribute to Hirst, acknowledging his immense talent and spirit. The music community, including artists like Jimmy Barnes and members of INXS and Hoodoo Gurus, also mourned the loss of the legendary drummer.
Hirst’s battle with cancer began in April 2023, leading to treatments and a subsequent decision to auction his iconic drum kit for charity in October. Reflecting on Midnight Oil’s impact, Hirst emphasized the band’s role in advocating for justice alongside other influential musicians.
