Remembering Frank Ifield
Legendary Australian singer Frank Ifield passed away at the age of 86 this week. His friend, music historian, and journalist Glenn A. Baker announced his peaceful passing in a Facebook post on Saturday night.
Early Life and Musical Journey
Frank Ifield grew up in the Sydney suburb of Dural, where he developed a passion for country music and yodelling. At the age of 13, he received a guitar from his grandmother and taught himself to play, starting to write his own songs.
Rise to Stardom
By the time he was 19, Frank Ifield had released 44 records and become the top recording artist in Australia, New Zealand, and Tasmania. In 1959, he made the move to London, where he achieved international success and became a household name in the UK.
International Success and Achievements
During his career, Frank Ifield had four number-one hits on the UK singles chart, including “I Remember You,” “Lovesick Blues,” “The Wayward Wind,” and “Confessin’ That I Love You.” His popularity soared, and even The Beatles opened for him, introducing the iconic band to his dedicated fan base.
His remarkable achievements also included performing for Queen Elizabeth II at the Royal Variety Show in 1965, starring in his own film “Up Jumped a Swagman,” and receiving the Medal of the Order of Australia in 2009 for his contributions to the arts.
Legacy and Family
Frank Ifield is survived by his wife Carole Wood and his two children from his previous marriage to Gillian Bowden.