Australian musician Doug Parkinson dies suddenly aged 74

Australian musician Doug Parkinson, known for his hit song Without You, has died at the age of 74.

The star’s publicist Lionel Midford confirmed the news on Monday evening, telling The Sydney Morning Herald that he ‘passed away suddenly’ at his Sydney home.

He told the publication: ‘Doug Parkinson was widely considered one of the most unusual and influential singer/songwriters in the history of contemporary music.’

Midford went on to describe Parkinson as a ‘legendary recording artist with a powerful and soulful voice’.

Doug’s son, Daniel Parkinson, added that his father was ‘one of the greatest professional musicians of this country’.

He said: ‘He had, I think, an especially high standard of music – playing and proficiency.’

‘He was very demanding in terms of what he expected from musicians and what he gave out on stage. He was always an absolute professional – that’s the thing I’ll remember about him.’

Doug saw incredible success and acclaim during his career, which spanned five decades.

He formed the bands Strings and Things and The Questions in the sixties before venturing out on his own to earn global fame for his cover of The Beatles’ Dear Prudence.

The talented musician saw continued success with his song Without You and another cover hit, I’ll Be Around. He also toured with The Who during his career.

Tributes for Doug poured in with singer Marcia Hines tweeting her respects to his family: ‘Sending much love to Susie, your boys and all of your family, friends and fans. Rest In Peace.’

Radio host David Campbell said: ‘Just heard the news about Doug Parkinson passing away. An enormous vocalist and a man who worked continually in his career. Another huge loss for the Australian Music Industry. Doug’s version of Dear Prudence matched the Beatles. Vale.’

Sky News Australia’s Chris Smith added: ‘JUST AWFUL. The great entertainer Doug Parkinson has died. Just terrible. So sad.’

Doug was planning to perform in Torrensville, South Australia on Thursday. He is ​survived by his sons Daniel and John and his wife John.

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