Grant McLennan Australian rock musician Date of Birth: 12.02.1958 Country: Australia

Grant McLennan: Biography

Grant McLennan, born Grant William McLennan, was an Australian rock musician. He was born in 1958 in Rockhampton, Queensland, Australia. McLennan's father passed away when he was very young, and his family led a nomadic lifestyle, which later became a recurring theme in his songs. In 1976, McLennan became a student at the University of Queensland. During his university years, he actively participated in protests and even got arrested.

In the 1970s, McLennan started learning how to play the bass guitar on the advice of Robert Forster. Together, they formed the rock band 'The Go-Betweens.' In 1978, the duo released their first single, 'Lee Remick,' and their debut album, 'Send Me A Lullaby,' was released in 1982. Interestingly, many critics noted the peculiar dynamic between McLennan and Forster. Each had their own distinct and recognizable style. Forster's songs were sharp and angular, while McLennan's compositions were soft, poignant, and even theatrical in nature.

'The Go-Betweens' disbanded after the release of their sixth album at the end of 1989. McLennan, like Forster, pursued solo projects. He collaborated with Steve Kilbey and Jack Frost and released several solo albums, including 'Watershed' in 1991, 'Fireboy' in 1992, 'Horsebreaker Star' in 1994, and 'In Your Bright Ray' in 1997. In 2000, 'The Go-Betweens' reunited, and McLennan and Forster recorded three more albums together. Their final album, 'Oceans Apart,' won the 'ARIA Award.' Their live DVD, 'That Striped Sunlight Sound,' was also nominated for an award.

'The Go-Betweens' were initially considered one of Australia's most underappreciated bands, but their recognition came later than many believed they deserved. However, by the 2000s, the band was regarded as influential and prominent in the Australian rock scene. Overall, 'The Go-Betweens' released nine studio albums, at least five compilations, and several live albums. The band came to an end in 2006 due to the unfortunate circumstances surrounding McLennan's death.

On May 6, 2006, McLennan was found dead in his Brisbane home at the age of 48. He passed away in his sleep from a heart attack. Prior to his death, McLennan had complained about feeling unwell to his fiancee, Emma Pursey, who was preparing for a party at their home. McLennan's funeral was attended by over 1000 people, including his musician friends Dave Dobbyn, Steve Kilbey, Paul Kelly, and Ed Kuepper. In an official statement about the band's breakup, McLennan's friend and bandmate Robert Forster said, "We released our final album and played our final show. We are proud of what we were able to accomplish, but this is where it ends."