Rock legend Dick Diamonde of The Easybeats dies at 76, leaving behind a lasting musical legacy
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The music world is mourning the loss of a legendary figure as news breaks about the passing of an ARIA Award-winning musician known for their significant contributions to the Australian music scene.
Celebrated for their role in a groundbreaking band that shaped the landscape of rock and pop, this artist's legacy is marked by unforgettable hits and a lasting impact on both fans and fellow musicians alike.
As tributes pour in from across the industry, many reflect on the profound influence this artist had on the sound and culture of Australian music.
Beloved Australian bass guitarist Dick Diamonde passed away earlier this month at the age of 76.
His death marks the end of an era for the country's rock ‘n roll legacy, as he was a key player in the band that put Australian music on the international map in the swinging ‘60s.
The iconic musician was a founding member of the legendary rock band The Easybeats.
Australian music journalist Glenn A. Baker shared the tragic news on social media.
‘The Easybeats turned Australia upside down—they were like our Beatles and Rolling Stones combined,’ he wrote.
‘Founding member Dick was, like so many bass players, a sober anchor in the band. Farewell!’
Born Dingeman van der Sluijs in the Netherlands in 1947, Diamonde's family migrated to Australia during his childhood, a move that would set the stage for his future stardom.
The Easybeats, formed in Sydney in 1964, quickly rose to fame with their infectious energy and catchy tunes, becoming Australia's answer to the British Invasion that was sweeping the world.
Together with lead singer Stevie Wright and fellow musicians George Young and Harry Vanda, The Easybeats made a significant impact in America, at one point competing with The Beatles in terms of popularity.
With their 1966 smash hit ‘Friday on My Mind’, they achieved what no other Australian band had done before—breaking into the American market.
The song soared to number one on the Australian charts and impressively reached number 16 in the United States, a significant achievement that paved the way for future Aussie artists to dream big.
Diamonde's musical journey with The Easybeats was marked by several other hit singles, including ‘Sorry’ and ‘Good Times’, the latter of which was famously covered by INXS and Jimmy Barnes in 1987.
Diamonde was a member of the band throughout its entire existence from 1964 to 1969, after which he retired from music and led a quiet life.
In 2017, the band’s story was dramatized in the ABC mini-series Friday on My Mind, featuring Preacher star Du Toit Bredenkamp as Dick.
His steady bass lines were the foundation upon which the band's sound was built, and his contributions to music were recognised in 2005 when The Easybeats were inducted into the ARIA Hall of Fame.
The loss of Dick Diamonde is felt deeply within the music community, both in Australia and around the world.
He is survived by his ex-wife Charlene Collins and leaves behind a rich musical heritage that will continue to inspire and entertain for generations to come.
Our thoughts and prayers are with Dick Diamonde’s family, friends, and relatives in this difficult time. May he rest in peace.
As we bid farewell to this iconic rock legend, we invite our readers to share their memories of The Easybeats and the indelible mark they left on the soundtrack of our lives. Did you ever see them perform live? What did their music mean to you? Join us in celebrating the life and artistry of Dick Diamonde, a true pioneer of Australian rock.
Celebrated for their role in a groundbreaking band that shaped the landscape of rock and pop, this artist's legacy is marked by unforgettable hits and a lasting impact on both fans and fellow musicians alike.
As tributes pour in from across the industry, many reflect on the profound influence this artist had on the sound and culture of Australian music.
Beloved Australian bass guitarist Dick Diamonde passed away earlier this month at the age of 76.
His death marks the end of an era for the country's rock ‘n roll legacy, as he was a key player in the band that put Australian music on the international map in the swinging ‘60s.
The iconic musician was a founding member of the legendary rock band The Easybeats.
Dick Diamonde, founding member of The Easybeats and Australian bass guitarist, has died at 76. Credit: Facebook / Russell James Walsh
Australian music journalist Glenn A. Baker shared the tragic news on social media.
‘The Easybeats turned Australia upside down—they were like our Beatles and Rolling Stones combined,’ he wrote.
‘Founding member Dick was, like so many bass players, a sober anchor in the band. Farewell!’
Born Dingeman van der Sluijs in the Netherlands in 1947, Diamonde's family migrated to Australia during his childhood, a move that would set the stage for his future stardom.
The Easybeats, formed in Sydney in 1964, quickly rose to fame with their infectious energy and catchy tunes, becoming Australia's answer to the British Invasion that was sweeping the world.
Together with lead singer Stevie Wright and fellow musicians George Young and Harry Vanda, The Easybeats made a significant impact in America, at one point competing with The Beatles in terms of popularity.
With their 1966 smash hit ‘Friday on My Mind’, they achieved what no other Australian band had done before—breaking into the American market.
The song soared to number one on the Australian charts and impressively reached number 16 in the United States, a significant achievement that paved the way for future Aussie artists to dream big.
Diamonde's musical journey with The Easybeats was marked by several other hit singles, including ‘Sorry’ and ‘Good Times’, the latter of which was famously covered by INXS and Jimmy Barnes in 1987.
Diamonde was a member of the band throughout its entire existence from 1964 to 1969, after which he retired from music and led a quiet life.
In 2017, the band’s story was dramatized in the ABC mini-series Friday on My Mind, featuring Preacher star Du Toit Bredenkamp as Dick.
His steady bass lines were the foundation upon which the band's sound was built, and his contributions to music were recognised in 2005 when The Easybeats were inducted into the ARIA Hall of Fame.
The loss of Dick Diamonde is felt deeply within the music community, both in Australia and around the world.
He is survived by his ex-wife Charlene Collins and leaves behind a rich musical heritage that will continue to inspire and entertain for generations to come.
As we bid farewell to this iconic rock legend, we invite our readers to share their memories of The Easybeats and the indelible mark they left on the soundtrack of our lives. Did you ever see them perform live? What did their music mean to you? Join us in celebrating the life and artistry of Dick Diamonde, a true pioneer of Australian rock.
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