Like so many music lovers, I was saddened to hear of the passing of Dr G Yunupingu this morning. He was one of our most special musical artists, who is just 46 years made his mark, first with Yothu Yindi and then with his solo career.
He was born on Elcho Island, off north east Arnhemland. Despite being born blind, music was in his veins and he taught himself how to play the drums, keyboards, guitar, and didgeridoo. But it was his voice that I’ll remember most. Though I didn’t speak a word of his Yolngu language, I felt like I understood his music. He communicated with us all with something more than words.
Dr G Yunupingu went on to sell over half a million copies of his albums across the world. He played for everyone from Queen Elizabeth to Barack Obama. Yet he remained connected his community. He passed away yesterday in Darwin Hospital after a long battle with illness.
I want to share this video with you, his music with you. Take a moment just to stop and appreciate the legacy he left for us.