The music community was met with concerning news as a stalwart of the Australian music scene was rushed to hospital following a serious health scare.
With a career spanning decades, the artist has left an indelible mark on the industry, making this sudden news all the more concerning. Friends, colleagues, and admirers have taken to social media to share their support, hoping for encouraging news.
Brian Cadd, known for his influential role in shaping the sound of Australian rock and country music, suffered a haemorrhagic stroke at his home on the Gold Coast, prompting immediate medical attention.
Brian Cadd’s family released a statement on social media detailing the harrowing incident and the current state of his health.
‘At the end of last week, our dear Brian suffered a haemorrhagic stroke while at home on the Gold Coast,’ the statement read.
‘Fortunately, he received medical attention quickly and is currently under the care of the Gold Coast University Hospital. He is stable, and his medical team is monitoring his progress. While it will likely be a long road ahead, he is showing early, encouraging signs.’
Seeing the post, thousands of messages of support poured in for Cadd.
‘Sending love. Brian is one of my heroes. [I] hope he gets better soon,’ commented one fan.
‘Wishing you a steady recovery, Brian. You are surely “A Little Ray of Sunshine”,’ wrote another, referencing a song from Axiom.
‘Get well, Brian. You are an absolute legend. Stay strong and recover. We love you, man. Keep rocking,’ said a different commenter.
Rising to fame in the 1960s as a member of The Groop, Cadd quickly became a household name with a string of hits that resonated with audiences. His journey continued as he co-founded Axiom alongside Don Mudie, with the band featuring future Little River Band frontman Glenn Shorrock.
Cadd’s solo career took off in the early ’70s, marked by the release of his debut album and the success of the Bootleg Family Band’s cover of ‘Your Mama Don’t Dance’ in 1973.
His adaptability and talent led him to sign with Capitol Records, where he continued to release music that resonated with fans, including covers of songs by The Pointer Sisters and Bonnie Tyler.
His contributions to the music industry have been recognised with numerous accolades, including his induction into the ARIA Hall of Fame and the Australian Songwriter’s Hall of Fame.
In 2018, his services to the arts were further acknowledged when he was made a Member of the Order of Australia.
Even in his later years, Cadd never lost his passion for music. He embraced country sounds on his album Dream Train, charted on the ARIA Album Chart.
Reflecting on his career, Cadd once said, ‘Five years ago, I never would have done this, thinking of the way I am perceived as coming from the rock’n’roll world. Then I thought, I’m 77 years old; I can do whatever I want to do. It was a magical experience.’
‘I felt I had been given this freedom. Let’s have more dobro [and] more pedal steel. They even sneaked some banjo into the mix, and that is something I never would have done before.’
What has Brian Cadd’s music meant to you? Have you enjoyed seeing him perform live, or do you have a favourite album or song? Share them with the YourLifeChoices community in the comments below.
Also read: Why musical memories from childhood are so strong
