The Australian music industry took another hit last night with the passing of Doug Parkinson. The larger-than-life, absolute legend was just 74.
My first introduction to Doug came when he took on the role of the Big Bopper in the musical Buddy. I was still in primary school when my family made the trip to Sydney. I didn’t know anything about Doug at the time, but I was struck by how he stole the show in a relatively minor role.
Over the years I’ve caught him live a couple of times: a set at Jazz in the Vines and his Joe Cocker tribute show a few years back. It saddens me some flaws in the Joe Cocker show will be my last memories of this incredible talent. I’d love a do-over. But while the gigs might not have always been perfect, Doug’s voice never faltered. It is one of the most striking, soulful Australia will ever hear, and the music landscape will be much poorer without it.
I want to leave you with this video for Doug’s version of “Dear Prudence,” always the highlight of his sets. It might be a controversial opinion, but I think it’s far superior to The Beatles’ original.
Vale Doug Parkinson.
Image source: own photo