Australian musician Doug Parkinson, aged 74

Australian singer Doug Parkinson has died this week at the age of 74. The talented musician, whose career spanned more than five decades, died suddenly at home.

During his many years as an entertainer, Doug had toured with The Who and played with The Questions and Small Faces.

His passing was confirmed by publicist Lionel Midford in a poignant statement.

“Just received the saddest news that Doug Parkinson, the legendary Australian recording artist with a powerful and soulful voice. He passed away suddenly at home,” he said.

“Doug Parkinson was widely considered one of the most unusual and influential singersongwriters in the history of contemporary music.”

In the late 1960s, Doug struck out on his own with Doug Parkinson In Focus and found worldwide fame with his hit version of the Beatles song Dear Prudence.

His own hit Without You followed soon after.

In 1979 he had success with another hit cover, I’ll Be Around.

His track The Sun Ain’t Gonna Sun (Anymore) hit the top 20 in 1981.

Doug also enjoyed success in the theatre, with roles in musicals Tommy and Jesus Christ Superstar.

Before he died, he was due to perform a gig in Adelaide last Thursday. He was also booked to tour until August.

Doug was born in Waratah, New South Wales, in 1946.

As a teenager he worked as a reporter on the Sydney morning newspaper The Daily Telegraph.

He was an avid surfer but sadly suffered an accident in which he was hit by a surfboard and was knocked unconscious and almost drowned. He was bedridden for six months while he recovered from his injuries.

Doug kickstarted his career in 1965 when he formed Strings and Things.

In his later career he focused on musical theatre.

He told The Herald Sun in 2016: “My favourite thing is working with a crowd.

“It’s what I’m going to keep doing. I have no plans for retirement.”

ENTERTAINER: Singer Doug Parkinson’s career spanned more than five decades.