Renowned Australian musician Ian Lees, best known as the bassist for the iconic band Moving Pictures, has died unexpectedly at the age of 60. The tragic news was confirmed on Sunday, October 15, 2023, when Lees suffered a heart attack, leaving a significant void in the Australian music scene.
Lees gained prominence in the early 1980s with the band’s hit single What About Me, which reached number 29 on the US Billboard charts in 1983. The song experienced a revival in 2004 when Australian Idol runner-up Shannon Noll covered it, propelling it to number one in Australia. This song remains one of the defining tracks of Australian rock music.
Tributes Pour In from Friends and Colleagues
Following the announcement of his death, heartfelt tributes flooded social media. Alex Smith, the lead vocalist of Moving Pictures, expressed his sorrow in a touching message on Facebook. “Forever and ever my friend, and just quietly the world’s greatest bass player. I love you mate,” he wrote, emphasizing the deep bond they shared.
Country music artist Melinda Schneider also shared her grief, highlighting the profound impact Lees had on her life and career. She described him as “the most gorgeous, funny, talented, empathetic, wise man” and expressed her shock at the loss, particularly given that they were set to tour together shortly. Schneider noted, “I can’t believe I will never again hear you say; ‘Mel, it’s what ya focus on!’ I will miss playing with you on stage, so much Ian … but we will meet again one day. RIP beautiful man.”
In light of the tragedy, Schneider has initiated a GoFundMe campaign to support Lees’ family. She revealed that just two months prior, his wife, Meny, had been diagnosed with ovarian cancer and is currently undergoing chemotherapy, which has limited her ability to work. “I can’t even comprehend the devastation and stress that Meny and Erin are under right now,” Schneider stated. “Some financial support will go a long way to alleviate some of the worries, so that Meny can put all of her focus on getting well and recovering.”
Legacy of Moving Pictures
Ian Lees was a pivotal figure in Moving Pictures, contributing to the band’s success during two periods, first from 1978 to 1987 and then again from 2011. The band’s debut album, Days of Innocence, topped the Australian charts in 1981, establishing them as a force in the music industry. In addition to What About Me, Lees contributed to the band’s popular track Never, which featured on the soundtrack of the hit 1984 film Footloose.
Moving Pictures’ influence extended beyond Australia, with their music featured in various films, including the 2007 comedy Hot Rod, which starred Australian actress Isla Fisher and comedian Andy Samberg.
The unexpected loss of Ian Lees not only resonates within the music community but also reflects the profound connections forged through artistry. As tributes continue to pour in, it is clear that his legacy will endure in the hearts of fans and fellow musicians alike.
