‘There would be no John Farnham without him!’
The talent manager’s shock death has rocked the music industry
Superstar singer John Farnham has been left heartbroken after the sudden death of his best mate and manager Glenn Wheatley, who single-handedly resurrected John’s career in the 1980s after mortgaging his family home to produce smash hit album Whispering Jack.
John, 72, was too griefstricken to talk about the loss of his great mentor, but he and wife Jillian released a statement expressing how devastated their family was at the loss of their dear and close friend.
“With his passing, so many people have lost a part of their lives,” they said, echoing the sadness that swept through Australia last week when it was confirmed that Glenn, 74, died of complications from COVID, despite being double-vaccinated.
“Devastating news. Our hearts are broken, our love and thoughts to all who love Glenn, especially his family.”
The legendary music icon, who started his career as bass player in The Masters Apprentices and pioneered FM radio in Australia, was responsible for discovering Delta Goodrem and launching her music career as well as taking the Little River Band to dizzying success around the world.
“Glenn impacted the lives of so many, including mine. I will always remember him calling my family about my music after hearing a demo CD from when I was just 13 years old,” Innocent Eyes singer Delta, 37, posted on Instagram. “What followed was many treasured memories. I am forever grateful for our time together in my early career. May he Rest In Peace. All my love and prayers are with his family at this time.”
Former Little River Band member Glenn Shorrock, 77, also paid tribute to his friend of more than 50 years, praising him as a “great champion of Australian music”, and a master negotiator who helped struggling musicians get a better deal.
Glenn leaves behind wife Gaynor Martin and their three children, Tim, 37, Samantha, 35, and Kara, 35.