Cold Chisel and Jimmy Barnes are mourning the death of long-time saxophonist Andy Bickers, who passed away following a battle with cancer. A veteran musician known for his work across the Australian and New Zealand rock scenes, Bickers performed with the band for over three decades, contributing to tracks including “Rising Sun,” “Saturday Night,” and “My Baby.”
The Legacy of Andy Bickers in Australian Rock
Andy Bickers established himself as a fixture in the touring circuits of the 1980s before his multi-decade tenure with Cold Chisel. According to the band’s official social media announcement, he was more than a musician; he was considered a “brother” to the group. His influence extended beyond Cold Chisel, as he provided saxophone performances for industry heavyweights, including Midnight Oil, Silverchair, the Eagles, and Don Henley.
Did you know?
Bickers was a New Zealand native who moved to Australia to pursue his career, eventually becoming a cornerstone of Jimmy Barnes’ touring band before joining the ranks of Cold Chisel.
Tributes from the Music Industry
Jimmy Barnes issued a public tribute, noting that Bickers possessed a rare combination of musical talent and character. “We were friends not only because he was a great player but he was funny, intelligent, and most importantly he was a good man,” Barnes wrote. The sentiment was echoed by Midnight Oil, who credited Bickers for his “signature power and passion” on the saxophone. The band acknowledged the loss, stating their thoughts are with his wife, Lisa, and son, Rudy.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Andy Bickers?
Andy Bickers was a Kiwi-born saxophonist who played with Cold Chisel for over 30 years and toured with artists including Midnight Oil, Silverchair, and the Eagles.
Which songs did Andy Bickers contribute to?
Bickers was known for his contributions to Cold Chisel tracks such as “Rising Sun,” “Saturday Night,” and “My Baby.”
Did Andy Bickers work with other bands?
Yes, he was a versatile musician who performed with several high-profile acts, including Don Henley, Silverchair, and Midnight Oil.
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