Australian country legend Chad Morgan has passed away at the age of 91 on New Years’ Day. The sad news was shared on behalf of his son Chad Jr and daughter Janelle on social media this morning. While no further details have been announced, it is known that Morgan was battling ill health after an almost unmatched career of live performing.
The legendary artist had a career spanning over 70 years, launching his career in 1952, when he was discovered through the radio talent quest Australia's Amateur Hour. The title of the song he entered with, The Sheik Of Scrubby Creek, has since become Morgan’s affectionate nickname.
He released his debut album under the same name in 1958, with an incredible 18 album releases following until the mid 1990s. His most recent album, Quarantined, arrived in 2021, before announcing his retirement in early 2024. His farewell show was at Twin Towns.
His charmingly-vibrant country and Western folk songs won fans over the decades, with his work ethic unquestionsed, from from touring large venues including with The Slim Dusty Show through to the smallest pubs in the smallest towns, Morgan dedicated his life to playing for his fans.
Morgan’s influence in Australia knows no bounds, having inspired Col Elliott, John Williamson and Barry Humphries (Dame Edna) in their respective careers. 2023 marked his 71st year touring across Australia.
Along the way, Morgan was the subject of a documentary film – I'm Not Dead Yet, which hit screens in 2012 – and freelance journalist Anna Rose published his official biography, Seventy Years In The Making, in 2022. His life was punctuated by a series of setbacks including a motorcycle accident in 1954 and a stroke at 47.
He entered the Australian Roll of Renown in 1987 and in 2010 received the CMAA Lifetime Achievement Award. In 2015 he was given the Mo Award for Australian Country Male Act of the Year and in 2018 received the Grant McLennan Lifetime Achivement Award at the Queensland Music Awards.
Morgan had been battling ill health since announcing the cancellation of a run of Tamworth shows, but not too many artists were still at the crease and batting at age 91. Morgan will be remembered as being fiercely independent, for his love of his audience and for his lifelong dedication to his craft.
Countrytown brings you Australia’s best country music news, interviews, charts and more every week! This post was authored by Countrytown and originally published on the Countrytown website. It has been re-published with permission.
