Aussie music legend Col Joye dies aged 89

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Legendary Australian singer Col Joye died on Tuesday aged 89.

The Australian entertainer, hailing from Sydney, was widely recognized for his significant impact on country, pop, and rock ‘n’ roll music scenes throughout Australia.

Originally named Colin Jacobson, he made history by becoming the first rock and roll musician to top the charts across the country in 1959, with his hit single Bye Bye Baby.

From birth known as Colin Jacobson, he became famous for being the first artist of rock and roll music to reach number one on national charts in 1959, with his popular song Bye Bye Baby.

As Colin Jacobson at birth, he garnered nationwide recognition by securing the top spot on music charts as a rock and roll artist in 1959, with his hit tune Bye Bye Baby.

Born Colin Jacobson, he climbed to number one on the charts in 1959 as a rock and roll musician with his famous song Bye Bye Baby.

Over the course of his lengthy career, he produced numerous hit singles that reached the top 10 charts and popular albums that garnered massive sales, reflecting the deep connection his music had with various Australian audiences.

The news of Joye’s passing was announced on Thursday by Ben Fordham on 2GB. 

Joye’s impact transcends his successful songs, as his magnetic stage persona kept audiences spellbound for many years.

For much of his illustrious career, he was a regular fixture on Australian television, gracing the screens of viewers throughout the 1960s on the iconic Channel Nine variety show called Bandstand.

He also appeared on The Bert Newton Show, RocKwiz, Blankety Blanks and John Laws’ talkback show.

Joye worked with and helped launch the careers of some of Australia’s biggest entertainment names. 

With his brother Kevin, Joye established the significant music label and talent agency known as ATA, where he assumed a crucial part in identifying and fostering emerging talent.

He played a significant role in kick-starting The Bee Gees’ music careers by helping them sign their first record contract in 1963.

During the subsequent phases of his career, Joye became associated with artists such as Johnny O’Keefe, Slim Dusty, and Normie Rowe, both performing alongside them and playing a crucial role behind the curtains in the Australian entertainment industry, thereby solidifying his status not only as an artist but also as a significant figure backstage.

Through his keen ability to spot talent and dedication to fostering upcoming musicians, he significantly contributed to the establishment of the contemporary Australian music scene.

In recognition of his services to music, Joye was awarded an Order of Australia Medal in 1981. 

Seven years later, he was inducted into the ARIA Hall of Fame. 

Heartbroken fans took to social media to pay tribute to Joye.

‘Should get a state funeral. The man was an Aussie legend,’ one person wrote.

‘A true gentleman. So sad,’ a second added. 

Over the course of his professional life, Joye demonstrated a knack for crossing musical boundaries, inspiring numerous artists and creating an indelible mark on the annals of Australian music.

People who knew him personally and those who admired his music throughout the years will remember him warmly for the significant influence he had on the industry.

As a devoted enthusiast, I found my deepest passion lying within the realm of music, and I had the privilege of showcasing my skills on stages spanning across Australia for many years, right up until the eve of my departure.

He is survived by his wife Dallas and their three children.

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2025-08-06 02:33