Judith Durham, the lead singer of Australian 1960’s folk music group The Seekers, has passed away at the age of 79.
Judith was born in 1937 in England, but moved to Australia with her family as a young child. She started her musical career as a solo performer in the early 1960’s, but soon joined forces with Bruce Woodley, Athol Guy, and Keith Potger to form The Seekers. The group quickly rose to popularity, thanks in part to Judith’s powerful and emotive voice.
They released a series of successful albums and singles, including “The Carnival Is Over” and “I’ll Never Find Another You”. The Seekers disbanded in 1968, but reformed several times over the years for reunion tours. Judith retired from performing in 2002 due to health issues, but remained an active member of the group until her passing.
She will be remembered as one of the most iconic singers of the 1960’s folk music scene. Judith is survived by her husband John and her three children. Judith’s death was announced on the band’s official Facebook page with the message: ‘It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of much loved Seekers lead singer Judith Durham.’ The statement added: ‘Judith’s standing as one of Australia and the world’s finest female vocalists is well-known.’
Durham had been suffering from severe dementia since being diagnosed in 2015. Woodley said last year that it was ‘heartbreaking’ to see his former bandmate lose her memory and ability to communicate. He said he would always remember Judith as a ‘wonderful friend’. Potger said Judith’s voice was ‘a national treasure’. ‘Australia has lost one of its finest ever singers,’ he told reporters.’We will miss her terribly.’
Judith leaves behind a tremendous musical legacy that will continue to entertain and inspire fans around the world.