Australian band Midnight Oil shared the news on Tuesday of the passing of their esteemed drummer and co-founding member, Rob Hirst, at the age of 70. The band expressed in a Facebook post that after bravely battling for nearly three years, Rob had passed away peacefully, surrounded by loved ones, free from pain. They also encouraged donations to charities dedicated to pancreatic cancer research and support.
Longtime members Peter Garrett, Jim Moginie, and Martin Rotsey expressed their deep sorrow and devastation at the loss of their bandmate, referring to Rob as their brother. They acknowledged the profound impact of his absence, stating that while words may be inadequate at this moment, their music will always endure.
Originating in the early 1970s with members based in Sydney and Canberra, Midnight Oil released their debut self-titled album in 1978. Their socially conscious image gained global recognition with the release of “Diesel and Dust” in 1987. Rob Hirst once shared in an interview that the band fearlessly tackled issues deemed taboo, fighting battles collectively despite occasional setbacks.
The band’s advocacy for Indigenous rights through songs like “Beds Are Burning” from the album “Diesel and Dust” propelled them to international success, topping charts in Canada and reaching the top 20 on the Billboard charts in the U.S. Their energetic live performances, featuring Peter Garrett’s dynamic stage presence and Rob Hirst’s thunderous drumming, captivated audiences worldwide.
Midnight Oil’s reputation continued to flourish with albums like “Blue Sky Mining” and “Earth and Sun and Moon,” featuring hits such as “Blue Sky Mine,” “Forgotten Years,” “Truganini,” and “My Country.” Despite the challenges posed by digital music platforms, the band persisted in releasing albums until 2002, when Peter Garrett transitioned into politics, serving as a government minister in Australia.
Throughout the years, Rob Hirst remained active in music, contributing to various projects alongside Midnight Oil’s intermittent reunions for tours and new releases. Their latest album, “Resist,” released in 2022, was supported by a global tour. Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and fellow musicians paid tribute to Rob Hirst, highlighting his immense talent and enduring legacy within the music industry.
Rob Hirst’s battle with pancreatic cancer, which began in April 2023, was met with courage as he underwent treatments and surgeries. Reflecting on Midnight Oil’s influential role in advocating for justice, he emphasized the band’s contribution alongside other notable musicians in championing social causes.
