Indigenous musician Dr G Yunupingu has died in Royal Darwin Hospital at age 46, following a long battle with illness. The late artist’s stirring, soulful music has made an impact on so many of us within the Readings community, and we are deeply saddened by his passing.

Blind from birth, the Yolngu man from the Gumatj clan grew up in the remote community of Galiwin'ku on Elcho Island. He received his first guitar at the age of six, and as he was left-handed, had to learn how to play upside down. Dr G Yunupingu song’s blended western musical styles and Australian Indigenous culture, and he sang almost exclusively in the Indigenous languages of Gumatj, Galpu and Djambarrpuynu. He shot to stardom after winning an ARIA Award for his namesake album in 2008, and has since performed in concert halls around the world.

Our Music & DVD Manager Dave Clarke says: ‘Dr Yunupingu’s self-titled debut album was an amazing record which showcased his extraordinary voice. Since its release in 2008, it has gone on to become Readings’ highest selling album ever. I was so sorry to learn of the artist’s passing – the Australian music world will be mourning this loss for a long time to come.‘

You can read a statement from Dr G Yunupingu’s record label Skinnyfish about the late artist here.

For cultural reasons, the full name and images of the late artist have not been published here.