Frank Ifield, the renowned musician who played a key role in helping The Beatles start their career, has died aged 86.
The UK was captivated by Ifield’s music in the 1960s. He died peacefully in his sleep on Saturday, according to his friend and music historian Glenn A. Baker.Â
Ifield was born in Great Britain and raised in Australia. In 1959 he returned to England, where he quickly became famous.
His hits, including “I Remember You”, “Lovesick Blues”, “The Wayward Wind” and “Confessin’ That I Love You”, earned him number one in the UK charts.
Ifield’s journey to success began with the gift of a guitar at the age of 13. He taught himself to play and soon began writing songs with a strong passion for yodeling and country music. In six years he released 44 records and became the best-selling artist in Australia, New Zealand, and Tasmania.
He also helped launch the Beatles’ career when they opened for him in the UK. In 1965 Ifield performed at the Royal Variety Show in front of the late Queen.
In 1986, Ifield battled pneumonia and underwent surgery to remove part of a lung, which damaged his vocal cords and sidelined his music career for several years.
After recovering, he published a book in 2005 and was awarded a Medal of the Order of Australia in 2009 for his contributions to entertainment and the arts.
Ifield is survived by his wife, Myra, and their two children.
Frank Ifield’s passing marks the end of an era for a musician whose contributions to the world of music and his influence on the Beatles’ early career are unforgettable. Known for his distinctive voice and yodeling style, Ifield became a beloved figure in the UK in the 1960s, earning a string of hits that cemented his place in music history. His legacy as a hard-working artist who has released 44 records in just six years while winning the hearts of fans in Australia, New Zealand, and Tasmania is a testament to his dedication and talent.
Beyond his musical achievements, Ifield’s story is one of perseverance. Despite the challenges he faced following lung surgery in 1986 that temporarily halted his career, Ifield’s passion for music and performance never wavered. His performance at the Royal Variety Show in 1965 for the Queen and his recognition with the Medal of the Order of Australia in 2009 highlight his lasting influence on the world of arts and entertainment.
As word of his death spreads, fans and loved ones are remembering the man who helped shape the sound of the ’60s music scene. Frank Ifield leaves a lasting legacy with his wife Myra and their two children, ensuring that his contributions will continue to be appreciated for generations to come.