Renowned Artist Manager Michael McMartin Passes Away at 79

Renowned artist manager Michael McMartin, a pivotal figure in Australia’s music industry, has passed away at the age of 79 after battling a long illness.

He passed away on Sunday, March 31, 2024 following a courageous battle with cancer, surrounded by his beloved family.

“Michael had been undergoing treatment for cancer for a number of years but, despite the best efforts of his medical team, he succumbed to his illness peacefully around noon on Easter Sunday, surrounded by his beloved family,” reads a statement from the McMartin family.

Born on March 12, 1945, on Vancouver Island, McMartin later pursued his education, earning a BA in Political Science from Loyola College in Montreal.

In 1971, he made the life-changing decision to relocate to Australia, where he would leave an indelible mark on the music industry.

In the years that followed, McMartin co-founded Trafalgar Records alongside producer Charles Fisher, establishing a platform for emerging artists.

The independent recording and publishing enterprise provided a springboard for talents such as Radio Birdman, Robyn Archer, 1927, and Gyan, showcasing McMartin’s keen eye for talent and his commitment to nurturing new voices.

In 1985, McMartin took a significant step in his career by founding Melody Management. Among his first clients were the Hoodoo Gurus, a band he would manage for over four decades.

Under his guidance, the Hoodoo Gurus achieved remarkable success, culminating in their induction into the ARIA Hall of Fame in 2007. McMartin’s dedication and expertise played a crucial role in shaping the band’s enduring legacy.

Throughout his illustrious career, McMartin earned numerous accolades and honors for his contributions to the Australian music scene. In 2007, he received the prestigious APRA Ted Albert Award, recognizing his lifetime commitment to the industry.

Additionally, he was awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) in 2015 for his exceptional services to the performing arts, particularly music.

McMartin’s passing leaves a void in the hearts of his loved ones and the wider music community. He is survived by his wife, Saskia, his son, Hamish, and his extended family, including two grandchildren, Kiara and Koby.