Iconic Australian musician Ian ‘Ollie’ Olsen has died aged 66, after a long battle with the neurological disease multiple systemic atrophy.
The Melbourne-born performer had been active in Australia’s vibrant music scene for five decades and was once in a band with INXS star Michael Hutchence called Max Q.
His family confirmed the news of his passing in a heartbreaking Facebook post, writing: “It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Ollie Olsen.
“Ollie fought long and hard like the Viking he was against multiple systemic atrophy since 2019, when he started having symptoms.”
They added that Ollie died peacefully in his sleep on Tuesday surrounded by his family in Melbourne.
‘He passed peacefully in his sleep under the care of the Royal Melbourne Hospital with his wife by his side. We ask for privacy during this difficult time,’ they wrote in a statement.
His death comes just a week after he was inducted into the Music Victoria Hall of Fame in recognition of his contribution to the industry.
Olsen met Michael Hutchence in the 1980s when they worked together on the soundtrack for the film Dogs in Space.
Iconic Australian musician Ian ‘Ollie’ Olsen has died aged 66, after a long battle with the neurological disease multiple systemic atrophy.
The couple later formed the rock and electronic band Max Q..
Max Q released his only self-titled album in 1989, which was well received for its experimental sound.
He blended Hutchence’s distinctive voice with Olsen’s moody production.
Olsen was also known for his involvement in the Australian punk and electronic scene, and performed in several other cult Australian bands, including Whirlywind.
The Melbourne-born performer had been active in Australia’s vibrant music scene for five decades and was once in a band with INXS star Michael Hutchence called Max Q. (Pictured with Hutchence in 1990)
He later became a film and television composer and wrote the soundtracks for several Australian television shows and cult films, including Head On starring Alex Dimitriades, Raw FM and The Loved Ones.
Olsen’s work in composing Head On was nominated for Best Original Score at the Australian Film Institute Awards in 1998.
He is survived by his wife Jayne.
Olsen’s family confirmed the news of her death in a heartbreaking Facebook post.
