Australian music industry legend Garry Van Egmond has passed away at the age of 82, following complications from a recent surgery.
Based in Melbourne, Van Egmond was renowned as a tour promoter with a career spanning 50 years. During that time, he worked with some of the biggest names in the industry including AC/DC, Dire Straits and more.
Garry Van Egmond On NZ’s 3News
Van Egmond’s contributions to the Australian music community were profound. Notably, he served as AC/DC’s promoter of choice for their tours in Australia and New Zealand, helping to solidify their status as one of the most iconic rock acts of all time.
In addition to his work with Acca Dacca, Van Egmond was also behind some record-breaking shows. One of his most memorable achievements was his role in organising Dire Straits’ Brothers in Arms tour in 1986, which earned him a slot in the Guinness Book of World Records. The tour was a monster success, selling over 900,000 tickets at a time when Australia’s population was just 14 million.
In 2010, Billboard Magazine recognised Garry’s achievements by placing him 5th worldwide in the ‘Top 25 International Promoters’ category.
Altogether his shows, which also encompassed theatrical productions such as Jesus Christ Superstar in 1992 and Riverdance in 1997, sold over 35 million tickets.
Van Egmond’s passing marks the end of an era for Australian live music.
RIP.
Further Reading
Australian Music Mogul Michael Gudinski Has Died, Age 68
Molly Meldrum Pays Tribute To Michael Gudinski
AC/DC’s Brian Johnson Is Starring In A New Documentary Series
