Is this what led to Judith Durham's death?
Durham, a folk hero who sang the first-ever US hits for an Australian band, reportedly passed away on Friday at a Melbourne hospital. Universal Music Australia also confirmed the news to Associated Press on Saturday, disclosing Judith Durham's cause of death as something related to her battle with bronchiectasis, a lung disease.
According to the American Lung Association, bronchiectasis occurs when the walls of the bronchi are thickened due to the existence of inflammation and infection. People with this chronic condition suffer breathing difficulties.
The Seekers publicized a heartfelt tribute to the singer after her death. The band's members - Keith Potger, Bruce Woodley, and Athol Guy - all expressed their heartbreak after losing their friend.
"Our lives are changed forever losing our treasured lifelong friend and shining star. Her struggle was intense and heroic, never complaining about her destiny and fully accepting its conclusion. Her magnificent musical legacy Keith, Bruce and I are so blessed to share," they said.
The Seekers management team member Graham Simpson also called it a sad day for everyone, per The Guardian.
Australian prime minister Anthony Albanese posted a tweet a day after her death to remember the country's national treasure.
"A national treasure and an Australian icon, Judith Durham gave voice to a new strand of our identity and helped blaze a trail for a new generation of Aussie artists. Her kindness will be missed by many, the anthems she gave to our nation will never be forgotten," he penned.
Premier Dan Andrews, as quoted by The Hollywood Reporter, noted that she conquered the music world outside Australia, especially in the US.
Judith Durham's Career Had Been a Fruitful One
In 1963, she officially led the popular folk music group and helped it become the first Australian pop music group to enter US and UK charts. However, she left the group in 1968 to focus on her solo career.
Despite its disbandment, The Seekers successfully joined the Australian Recording Industry Association Hall of Fame in 1995. The band members were also honored as Officers of the Order of Australia in 2014.
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Among her songs, Georgy Girl" and "I'll Never Find Another You," became game changers as it led the band to score a hit in the US, following Bee gees and Helen Reddy.
Before her death, she suffered a stroke that affected her ability to read and write. The health issue did not stop her from singing, though, as she was still able to release her "So Much More" album in 2018.
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