| Author | Message | ||
     Brandon Morgan Unregistered guest |
The Go-Betweens came into my life just over a year ago, at the right time in my life, and quickly became my favorite band. I immediately went out and purchased all of the Go-Between records after hearing “Cattle & Cane” in April 2005. There hasn’t been a day since that time that their records haven’t been played on my stereo at home, in my car, or at work (or all three in the same day, which happened more often than not). The songs that Robert and Grant wrote were beautiful, but Grant’s song had really spoken to me lately, especially when my fiancée suddenly left me. The music Grant created spoke to me and helped me over the last few months. Grant wrote about beauty, loss, longing, and commitment. He did it like no one else. They enriched my life, broke my heart, and made me think; three feats that most musicians never accomplish once. Grant did it with such frequency that it seemed like he would always be here forever to continue to fill that void. Grant will be greatly missed by this admirer. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family, friends, and band mates. B. Morgan South Carolina | ||
| werner, vienna Unregistered guest |
this is soooo sad, I just can't believe that there won't be any more go betweens albums. what a loss! | ||
| Pete - Mighty Mighty Unregistered guest |
So shocked when I got the news from my brother this morning. Been a fan since picking up a free copy of Before Hollywood in '84. Got Quiet Heart going round my head today. A truly beautiful and gifted songwriter. "So take your shoes and go outside....." | ||
| Dusty Member Username: Dusty Post Number: 27 Registered: 05-2005 |
My heartfelt condolences go out to Grant's family, friends, fellow bandmembers and of course, Robert. He was a beautiful songwriter. | ||
| Andreas Kefalas Unregistered guest |
The best memories of my life are conjoint with Go-Betweens songs and melodies.I feel like i lost something very personal. I will keep deep in my heart the magic moment of watching Grant walking among the audience passing in front of me in Athens concert of Go-Betweens some years ago. There was some magic in there !! My deepest sympathy to his parents, friends and Robert.I will always remember you ! | ||
| Anna Webster Unregistered guest |
A huge loss to the music industry... Our band would never play a cover until we heard 'Love goes On' 'Streets of your Town' was played at our club night last Thursday to a group of 18 - 40 year olds and every danced....all the way over here in London, Thank you for the music, Anna xx | ||
| C Hurley Unregistered guest |
When Grant mcClennan stopped doing solo work and got together with Robert Forster again my heart sank. How could they possibly better the old material - they should at least change the name. But these last three albums have been typically beautiful, bittersweet and yet gloriously summer, just like the old days. I'm so glad I got the chance to see the band. This band, and Grant McClennan's creative input, never mind wonderfully gentle singing voice heard on all those great songs will be a lasting legacy. I'm not really sure if that was the right thing to say. It's such a shock. Obviously my thoughts are with everyone involved with the Go Betweens, Robert and of course, Grant's family. I'm so sorry. This must be unbearable. He was a good man. | ||
| Paloma Unregistered guest |
Thank you for all the emotions you expressed for us! | ||
| Alistair Unregistered guest |
".....'cos I love that engine roar, but I still don't know what I'm here for..." You were here to create beautiful music songs. A truly amazing song writer. My birthday is on May the 6th but from now on my celebration will be tinged with sadness. Condolances to Grant's family and close friends from just one of his many many fans | ||
| Scott Grant Unregistered guest |
Got into the Go Betweens while living in Oz when Rachel Worth came out. Was lucky enough to see them in Melbourne and despite only chatting to Grant for 10 minutes he came across genuine and a true music fan, happy to speak with anyone who approached him. Since then I've seen them whenever they came to Scotland and I've taken great delight in the newer releases and discovering gems in the back catalogue. Deeply saddened to hear of his passing so young and send my thoughts to those who knew him, in particular his band mates and family. RIP Grant. | ||
| Adam B Unregistered guest |
I feel saddened and shocked to learn that Grant McLennan passed away in his sleep at his Brisbane home. I discovered The Go-Betweens back in January this year and I heard their music. The lyrics, the emotions and everything special in that band. That was I knew I loved them. 'Streets of Your Town', Cattle And Cane' and 'No Reason To Cry' are definitely excellent songs that Grant wrote. I feel proud that I knew them as a fan, even it was short lived in that time. My condolences go to his mother, brother, sister and his girlfriend and also the people who knew him best. Thankyou Grant, I will forever miss you. Adam | ||
| Tim Unregistered guest |
I terrible loss to the world of music; a tragedy for his family and friends..... | ||
| Richard Unregistered guest |
Cattle and Cane was the first song that truly hit deep down into my soul. Even today it resonates with a certain something. Grant Mclennan was one of the best songwriters and lyricists of his generation and has been a constant inspiration to me. I've listened to the Go-Betweens for many years and their songs seemed to tweak something in me that no other band has ever reached. I'm feeling very sad about Grant's passing and would like to pass on my condolences to his friends and family. | ||
| nick peters Unregistered guest |
What a terrible loss. I remember the first time I heard the Go-Betweens on Peel, I remember the first time I saw them open for Aztec Camera at Birmingham Odeon and their music and Grant's solo work and the Jack Frost albums. Thanks for all of the music and all of those memories. My thoughts go out to Robert and all Grant's friends and family. R.I.P | ||
| Grendel Unregistered guest |
I'm saddened, but also so pleased to have heard and enjoyed the songs. I am also so pleased that I got to see Grant and Robert play in both London and Auckland. So pleased. Happy memories. Thankyou. Play on. Grendel NZ | ||
| John Douglas Unregistered guest |
Cant believe this, my heart goes out to the family. I am musician/songwriter with the Trashcan Sinatras and have been a fan since hearing Bachelor Kisses an the Peel show...such a beautiful, wise, melodic, individual body of work you have left us. My life has been and still is uplifted and inspired by the music the Go Betweens made. | ||
| Erik Tornquist Unregistered guest |
thank you for the music !! Grant was one of the greatest songwriters ever and I hoped there would be more great albums to come. I will miss him, but I'm thankful for all fine music that has been the soundtrack to my life for more than 20 years. Swedish national radio will honour him with 1 hour special edition of P3 pop this evening. I belive you can all listen to the program at http://www.sr.se/cgi-bin/p3/programsidor/index.asp?ProgramID=953 once it has been aired. | ||
| Michael Bachman Member Username: Michael_bachman Post Number: 101 Registered: 01-2005 |
I can't believe that Grant is gone at such an early age. Your music has been such a big part of my life for almost 18 yars now. Thanks Grant for all the great music that you have given us. I will never forget you or your music or your kindness the two times I saw you perform and met your after the show. | ||
| lazza Unregistered guest |
like so many of the people who've posted messages, the Go-Betweens music has been a constant companion to me and i'm eternally grateful for that. he will be sadly missed. | ||
| JohnP Unregistered guest |
Lots of memories come back and fragments of tunes floating around (Cattle and Cane never leaves you once you've heard it). It was a strange day yesterday and quite unbelievable. I had only just been watching the Striped Sunlight DVD extra with Grant and Robert playing and talking through some of the songs. I just think of all the great nights seeing them play live through all the years, all their lineups, all the great songs and his smiling presence on the stage - he looked like he loved to be there with us, sharing his music, sharing Robert's music. I can't imagine how his bandmates, friends and family are feeling right now but send love and best wishes to all. Thanks for everything Grant | ||
| jan f Unregistered guest |
a tragic loss. i'll remember grant as the great and congenial artist he was and ever will be. my condolences go to his family and friends. jan (hamburg, germany) | ||
| paul dean Member Username: Akumulator Post Number: 5 Registered: 05-2005 |
Sad sad news. This is the first time a musical hero has died, where I've really been stopped in my tracks watched the acoustic sessions on the DVD for the first time last night Heartbreaking to watch Grant, but some comfort that he seemed so happy The parts that really hurt were hearing him speak so excitedly about the future and also his comment at the end of Cattle & Cane - "I look forward to saying the word 'Older' every night" It's going to be a long time before I can listed Bye Bye Pride without a tear in my eye Steven Duffy maybe said it best - "The day after someone dies, you wake a little less alive"" Sleep well tonight Grant Peace, Paul. | ||
| brian kelly Unregistered guest |
For so many years your music has floated around me. Truly great. Thanks for so much, you'll be missed | ||
| Simon McKenzie Unregistered guest |
The world is a much poorer place without your words, music and presence. I'll never forget that afternoon in the Pineapple Hotel, watching Damien Garvey, and mid-set a guy gets up and plays one of your own songs to you. It took balls and a degree of stupidity for him to do that, but your response was as graceful as your songs. | ||
| Luke Haines Unregistered guest |
Such awful news. Grant, you will be sorely missed. RIP. Luke | ||
| Mark Tuffield Member Username: Mark_t Post Number: 42 Registered: 05-2005 |
Something lost, was found again, but now it is lost - for ever. Knowing where you are from is very important – when I was growing up in England my Brisbane relatives would send me books and magazines to remind me of the country and city of my birth. Television and films helped to fill in the gaps, but musically there was a void, until one Sunday afternoon a local radio station played a song by a band, not just from Australia but from Brisbane, called the Go-Betweens… To Grant’s family, friends and colleagues my heartfelt condolences at this very sad time. | ||
| Pat Boland Member Username: Pat_boland Post Number: 9 Registered: 05-2005 |
Thank you Grant. Those of us whose lives you touched are all the richer for it. My thoughts are with your family and friends. Oh, ev'ry thought that's strung a knot in my mind, I might go insane if it couldn't be sprung. But it's not to stand naked under unknowin' eyes, It's for myself and my friends my stories are sung. But the time ain't tall, Yet on time you depend and no word is possessed By no special friend. And though the line is cut, It ain't quite the end, I'll just bid farewell till we meet again. Oh a false clock tries to tick out my time To disgrace, distract, and bother me. And the dirt of gossip blows into my face, And the dust of rumors covers me. But if the arrow is straight And the point is slick, It can pierce through dust no matter how thick. So I'll make my stand And remain as I am And bid farewell and not give a damn. | ||
| Florian Braunschweig Unregistered guest |
I am deeply shocked and I am infinitely sad. Grant McLennans songs have always been an integral part of my life since the mid-80ties. My thoughts are with Grants friends and family . Florian(Hamburg/Germany) | ||
| erin azzopardi Unregistered guest |
thanks for the music grant ... i can only imagine how many lives your songs have touched and will continue to touch. such sad times but i've been having a ball revisiting old albums. your songs always could put a smile on my face. | ||
| Jon Wall Unregistered guest |
For the past fifteen years I have listened to Grant and The Go-Betweens during my best and worst moments. Grant travelled my road and kept me afloat when I felt like I was going to sink. Grant's songs accompanied me through every facet of life, the good times and the bad, making me smile and cry when thinking about those I love. Your sublime lyrics and smooth melodies will stay with me for the rest of my life. I will miss you and The Go-Betweens, as will we all. Thanks for letting me in on something very special, you weren't on your way, you were already there. | ||
| Thomas Machairas Unregistered guest |
I discovered the Go-Betweens more than 23 years ago, when I bought the single for "Cattle And Cane". Since then, I' ve been following their each step, as a band and Grant and Robert's solo careers, as well. I was lucky enough to see them playing live in Athens, some fifteen or sixteen years ago. For me, they are the greatest pop band, ever, and the tragic news about Grant's passing really shocked me. He truly was a great songwriter and a wonderful singer too. I never got to know him in person. The closest I got to him was during this gig I' ve mentioned before, when Grant and Robert jumped offstage and performed a song walking between the audience. I think that his songs and his presence in general, all these years, give him - by right - a very special and distinct place in the history of rock'n'roll music. I believe that all great music lovers will remember him forever. At least, I know I will.... My deepest condolences to his family, his friends and band mates. Thank you for everything Grant. We will all miss you. Thomas | ||
| Julian Wu Unregistered guest |
Grant, I am truly saddened by your passing. The music that you and Robert made has been part of my life for most of my life, from the time I bought a copy of Lee Remick at the tender age of 14 way back in 1978. Your songs helped me celebrate the good times and survive the sad times. Your body of work is impressive, and yet it still feels like you had so much more to give and the best was yet to come, and I regret that I'll never hear you sing those songs. I regret even more that we'll never have another opportunity to share a conversation over a meal and a drink. Goodbye my friend. My condolences to your family and friends, and your colleagues past and present; Robert, Adele, and Glenn, Amanda, Lindy, John, and Robert Vickers. | ||
| Jupp Unregistered guest |
Good bye, Rock and Roll Friend!!! | ||
| Markus S Unregistered guest |
can't find the right words for it. it is a very sad thing to lose such an great musican that spreads his symphatie to so many people. a big miss for us. my thoughts are with the people that are close to him. farewell | ||
| B. Rider Unregistered guest |
'I know I can get sentimental my friend, but I just listened to those songs you sing.' Still feels unreal, unfair. Just a big thank you for all those songs Grant. I can press a button and always hear them. That is consolation for me. I hope your friends and family can find their own consolation too. | ||
| The Edinburgh Go-Betweens appreciation society Unregistered guest |
‘I took this chance to write a message, it’s just to say that I will miss you’ Love you always Grant xx | ||
| lars vogel Unregistered guest |
Sad news. Your music says always something to me about my life. Thank You! | ||
| Svein Inge Saether Unregistered guest |
Shattered and devastated. Pop music will never be the same. Thank you so much, Grant. Best wishes to Grant's family and friends. | ||
| P. Gavrilis Unregistered guest |
Thank you for all the magical moments you have offered us along the years, Grant. I will never forget you. Panayiotis Gavrilis, Athens, Greece | ||
| Trevor Jones Unregistered guest |
Chills..."Perry and Simone" from 'Heartbreak Star' was playing on the ipod 'select' as I heard the news this morning of Grant McLellan's passing. I've got a few skeletons in my musical attic, albums that haven't survived or aged well, but I'll pat myself on the back over The Go Betweens. I got there fairly early with 'Liberty Belle', fell for 'The Wrong Road' and, later, the mysteries of 'Cattle and Cane' and was forever smitten. The songs seem just as 'right' now as the did then; they breathe their very own exotic air, yet maintain a whiff of the mundane, something special to fuel anyone’s day. The sensibilities aren't male, or cock and roll, girl friends connected as much as I did. I loved the vulnerability of the poetry, and that, particularly with Grant, the songs seemed inclusive, "an open invitation" to his world, the songs going exactly where I hoped they would, (with a few twists along the way) me grinning like a loon as they did. There'd always be that 'favorite Beatle' discussion, Robert and Grant's bitter-sweet combination is beyond that, but I do love those solo albums; there are times when a cup of sweet milky tea is 'just right'. 'Oceans Apart' was a welcome return, hearing 'The Statue' was like bumping into a best mate years down the line. Of course he'll be missed, but there's a big heart to be heard in his words and music. God bless him...I'm off to the attic to review my collection. | ||
| David Collins Unregistered guest |
Really terrible news - I was introduced to the GB's and Grants solo work by a close friend about six years ago... was immediately drawn to Grant's songs rather than Robert's (it's a personal thing)... anyhow, what I want to say is that the world has lost a great songwriter and musician, under-acclaimed possibly but cherished none the less... I will always remember when you came down into the audience at Manchester, UK a few years back - I think you broke a string or two so you simply climbed down into the crowd to watch Robert and the others continue the song. God Bless Grant... my thoughts go out to Grant's family, friends and band-mates. David Collins (UK). | ||
| Lorna Aizlewood Unregistered guest |
I am deeply shocked and saddened by this tragic news. The Go-Betweens have been part of my life for over 20 years - a band whose music I come back to again and again - true quality and class. I have many happy memories of seeing them perform from the 80's through to recent years. What a terrible waste of someone with so much more joy to give to the world. My deepest sympathies go out to his family and friends, especially Robert and Bernard. | ||
| Greg I. Unregistered guest |
"Sixteen Lover's Lane" was one of those rare albums that stop you in your steps the very first time you hear it. In the Summer of 1989, two cassettes lived in my car: "16" and "reading, writing and arithmetic" by The Sundays. They comprised the soundtrack of my late-adolescence. Saw Grant and Robert perform twice on the "Rachel Worth" tour (NYC and Phila). Amazing. The music, yes -- but also the personalities of the men who made it. An energy and charm that permeated the room. My heart aches today. | ||
| katz Unregistered guest |
I never could understand this "elvis is dead" thing - now I do. Thank you little man for your great songs that will stay with me until we see again. | ||
| Jim Kavanagh Member Username: Kavanagj Post Number: 7 Registered: 10-2004 |
It was with great sadness and shock that I learned the news of Grant's passing away. The Go Betweens are so much part of my life. Through the eighties as great record after great record appeared. We took it in our youthful stride. The Go Betweens were a sound track to our lives and they will do this forever. Even with the end of decade split they were never really away. The one off shows during the nineties, that show as an acoustic duo, they made the heart grew fonder. The band reformation and then "Oceans Apart". If anything, during the the last year, my bond, and I think of their fans as a whole, grew stronger and we watched their relative success. The Go Betweens has become, even more, a special place that I looked forward to visiting again and again. To think we will no longer see Grant chesire cat like grin as he glances across to Robert on stage or that knowing smile taking applause after another glorious number. I still cant quite believe it. It is a sad day for Grant family and friends and I especially feel for Robert. It may take a few days to come round to playing a Grant song again but I most certainly will now and for always. Thanks for all the memories, rest in peace. Jim Kavanagh, Glasgow. | ||
| Jakob Unregistered guest |
I have been a fan of the Go-Betweens for almost 20 years, and I am absolutely shocked by this terrible news. My deepest sympathies to Grant's family and to Robert. | ||
| sOOz Member Username: Soozyq Post Number: 3 Registered: 05-2005 |
SO Shocked and saddened to hear this news. Our deepest, deepest sympathies to Robert, who must feel the loss most strongly, and also to his family, and to Adele and Glenn and everyone involved with the hard work of supporting a band. I shall treasure the memories of my last two gigs at the Barbican and Shepherd's Bush Empire and the music shall live on forever...Sue and family | ||
| Kosmas Unregistered guest |
Shocked! Your music has been in the background of my life and in the foreground of my musical attention for the past several years more than any other. From now on it will be twice the meaning of everything I’ve lived and felt through it every time it accompanies me. You will always be alive and among us with what you have created. Thank you for your wonderful inspirations. Kosmas Athens, Greece | ||
| jonas Unregistered guest |
This is sad news indeed. A lot of Go-Betweens in the iPod today. Thank you for all the music. jonas/sweden | ||
| Detournement Unregistered guest |
So sad to hear about this. Thoughts to his family and loved ones. Just played '16 Lovers Lane' again. 'Quiet Heart' is still as gorgeous as ever. Jim, Brighton. | ||
| Robert Spark Unregistered guest |
I wore out my copy of The NME's Raging Spool tape playing, rewinding and replaying Part Company. A song I'll forever love. Thanks for everything Grant, but especially thanks for that. | ||
| Houman Sadri Unregistered guest |
Taken from the world far too young. May you rest in peace. Thank you for everything. | ||
| Patrick Chapman Unregistered guest |
Deeply shocked and saddened by the news of Grant's passing, I have written this poem in remembrance of one of the great songwriters and a man who was loved by many. Patrick TO A HOUSE OF TIN AND TIMBER Grant McLennan dead at forty-eight, A heart attack, in bed, in his home town, That evening’s party now become a wake. Songs are strewn around him Like invisible petals: Flowers for lyrics, roses for notes. The chorus comes later – A sound that reaches back into the earth To bloom again in someone else’s ears, But never heard the same as when he sang. I recall a schoolboy coming home *** | ||
| Jocky Thomas Unregistered guest |
Really sad to hear that Grant had died. It's a real shock cause he was still relatively young. The Go-Betweens were the soundtrack of the mid-80's for me and my then girlfriend. Of course she has gone but my love for the music burns on. Favourite GMcL songs Bachelor Kisses Right Here Cattle and Cane Love to Robert, RIP Grant | ||
| Susan Tanner Unregistered guest |
If only I could think of something half as eloquent to write....Grant, you wrote beautiful, poignant, amazing songs that have touched many lives, including mine. It is a sad time indeed. You will be sorely missed, but your music is the gift you left for us to treasure. My deepest sympathies to Robert and the rest of the band as well as to his friends and family. | ||
| Jessel Unregistered guest |
My first ever import Go-Betweens record was Liberty Belle & The Black Diamond Express back in 1986, then I bought their new albums through the years and at the same time I re-discovered their older albums and solo stuff. But I would always play "Liberty Belle..." from start to finish and my friends would ask me why I do it since some songs were on the slow side...I'd just say that the album is beautiful and great as a whole! So after more than 15 years, I finally met Grant and Robert and saw them perform live on their first come-back tour (in 2000) and I was so glad to find out that they are very sincere and friendly people and totally down to earth! I was also glad that on that night I had the chance to say "Thank you" to Grant for making great music through the years and he in turned gave me a big smile and a pat on the shoulder and said "you're very welcome, mate!" what a way to meet a musical hero!...he'll be missed but his music will be played in my collection for a long, long time! Rest in Peace and Thank You again for sharing your music with us! | ||
| david swift Member Username: Daveswift Post Number: 8 Registered: 04-2005 |
I knew Grant, as an aquaintance, in London in the mid 1980s. Always a polite decent guy and with time to stop and chat to even aquaintances. He was inspirational company, over a few beers with Bleddyn and Mat! Can't add anything re his talent. I saw the band for the first time in 17yrs in Glasgow last year and was amazed to find their new stuff as riveting as that which first drew me to them over 25 years ago. My sincere condolences to his family. | ||
| Ralf from Cologne Unregistered guest |
Wonderful concerts, wonderful songs, Grant brought a piece of the Australien sun to me. I'll miss him and i will never forget the Concerts in Köln/ Germany Ralf, a friend from the other side of the planet | ||
| Steve Witte Unregistered guest |
I am shocked and sad like the others on this list. I have been listening to the Go-Betweens since 1984 when I first heard them on the radio. Grant and Robert nailed so many emotions in the music they did. They were the soundtrack to romance good and bad. I never got to see the Go-Betweens live, however I did see Grant when he and Steve Kilbey toured as Jack Frost, I am grateful for that one time. Thank God they made the live DVD and interview.Thanks for everything you did Grant. Thoughts and prayers with the friends and family. Steve Witte/Atlanta,GA USA | ||
| W.R.R Unregistered guest |
I just want to say thank you for a lot of pleasure you brought into my life for 25 years. My deepest sympathies to Grants family and Robert | ||
| Kelly Meech Unregistered guest |
American fan here who is devasted. The Go-Betweens were my Australian soundtrack, both in AU and here in the US. Been listening for 23 years... Saw them on the last night of their 2005 US tour (caught both San Francisco and the final night in LA). Grant was so kind and sweet as he signed my CD, saying, "That really was a good show, wasn't it? Did you like it?" very softly. There were at the top of their game and the whole crowd felt it, too. My friend remembers Grant walking out of the club at the end of the night with a big bottle of champagne to celebrate the end of the tour and a great show. That tour just ended on such a high note. The DVD and the Sydney festival were to come. And now this... Beautiful singer and songwriter. Amazingly poetic, poignant, evocative and, as Amanda said recently, writer of "exquisite love songs." He will be so missed. Grant always raised the bar on every release he put out. I wonder what amazing music he had still had in him.... I am so grateful for all those songs that are part of ALL our lives. My deepest sympathy to his family, friends, and bandmates. | ||
| Michael Member Username: Michael Post Number: 22 Registered: 08-2004 |
To Edwyn and Rachel my fellow giggies at the Barbican in 2004 - I'm doing a tribute gig in Hobart on the 26th May where we will attempt to do the best of GM - if you want to come - email mamurray@netspace.net.au | ||
| Mac McCaughan Unregistered guest |
such horrible news, such a sad loss. it's great when you meet one of your heroes and they turn out to be friendly and gracious and as special as you would hope they'd be. grant had a truly unique voice and wrote some classics with that voice. heartfelt condolences to grant's family and to robert. what else to say? just sad. thanks grant. | ||
| Gill68 Unregistered guest |
the Go Betweens music made living in the east end of Glasgow in the mid-80s a lot more bearable. RIP Grant | ||
| Simon McRae Unregistered guest |
It wasn't until I first heard The Go-Betweens, at about age 17 in 1985, that I really discovered what I liked about music. I'm not sure that I understood why I liked it, but I just did. Looking back, it's now clear that Grant's song writing was the major reason for this attraction. Thanks Grant for all the ways your songs have made me feel over the last twenty years. | ||
| Niall Watters Unregistered guest |
I am utterly stunned and shattered on hearing the news. I wish his family and loved ones well and pass on my sympathies. This man wrote music that has been with me for the last 20 years. I have all his stuff and met him twice. "life can be cruel". He had so much to give and was really only getting better. My thoughts are also with Robert F. I am shocked still. | ||
| Nic Unregistered guest |
I am finding this so hard to take in, I was utterly shocked and disbelieving when I heard the news. Spent the train journey up listening to the Snap CD and it was so hard hearing Quiet Heart and knowing there will never be another song like that...I still cant really believe it...He was one of the nicest guys you could ever meet... I really am just devastated...So young...WHY? Thankyou Grant for all the great songs, the great nights and for changing my life this way My Rock n Roll friend | ||
| michael Unregistered guest |
I just can't believe this i'll never see the two of em on stage again this is so sad a very sad day for me. too many memories my thoughts go out to everyone who is feeling this and especially to his family and close friends xxxxx | ||
| Paul pledger Unregistered guest |
I posted an epitaph on the 6 Music website for all to read but I just wanted to say to all true lovers of the sunshine that Grant's songs displayed in every room I have ever played them in. I single-handedly badgered a local radio station in Plymouth to play "Streets Of Your Town" (which it did for a week) and always played the song to friends and lovers new and old. I have never tired of their songs but admit to leaning towards those with Mclennan in the credits. "Stones For You", "Haven't I Been A Fool?", "Bachelor Kisses"....No 'best of' can do justice. However, all of these tributes should go in the sleeve-notes (should one be planned) as a true tribute to the Saint of songs. | ||
| baptiste Unregistered guest |
thanks for the great music you will be missed by all who care about music. rest in peace, brother. | ||
| Stephen Morrow Member Username: Morrows Post Number: 1 Registered: 05-2006 |
Just read about this tragic news. Grant's contribution to the band was inspiring, providing many, many thought provoking and simple pop songs that gave me such joy over the years. The melodies, those lyrics and great stringed songs were a testament to Grant's ability to be one of Australia’s finest. Stephen, Scotland | ||
| Simone Dubberke Member Username: Sim Post Number: 2 Registered: 06-2005 |
it's so sad, I'm speechless. love to grant's family and loved ones, robert, adele and glen. all your great music will remain. will miss you. | ||
| Chris Bishop Unregistered guest |
I've just heard this terrible news. Your music has been part of me for twenty years and will be till the end of my days. Thank you for being with me on the journey. In this part of Norwich, UK, it's cold, and dusty in here. | ||
| Steven Nicholls & Sheila Maher Unregistered guest |
A tragic loss, and a terrible shock. Our thoughts are with Grants' family and friends, Robert Forster, Glen & Adele, and Go-Betweens past. Grant had so much more left to give. I'll be playing his music today. | ||
| Christine Worthington Member Username: Christine Post Number: 1 Registered: 05-2006 |
I will never forget the warm and wonderful show Grant and Robert did at the Continental in Melbourne, and I will never forget the first time I heard Spring Rain nearly 20 years ago, which has been playing in my head all day since I heard this most devastating news. Deepest sympathies to all. Australia has lost one of its very finest. | ||
| tim f Unregistered guest |
Thankyou to the girl at Our Price, Warrington, England for playing what she told me was 16 Lovers Lane - the new album by a band called the Go-Betweens. Thankyou Grant and Robert for nearly 20 years of great music since. Can't imagine what it will be like just hearing songs from one of you from now on. Rest In Peace Grant. | ||
| Andrew Morant, Melbourne Unregistered guest |
The Go Betweens have been my favourite band for 20 odd years and Grant's lyrics and melodies have always shone so very brightly. I will miss your music and poetry very much and thank you for the beautiful imagery that your songs evoke in my imagination. Stay in that wonderful striped sunlight! | ||
| Nic V Unregistered guest |
In 1989 I missed a GB's show I was planning to see because I forgot it was on, remembered at midnight but too late, they split up weeks later. Last year they played in my home town at a theatre that my family own, again I missed it, because I was in Ireland to see the Pixies [some consolation I suppose], but I still regretted missing the show. Although I did see several RF/GM solo & Go-Betweens shows between 1990-2004 the disappointments of those two bookends are still memorable. I don't know what I'm trying to say. I am just really shocked at the news. GM & Go-Betweens were/are very special. My condolences to those near to Grant and those who loved him. A very sad loss. | ||
| guy Unregistered guest |
so many shows so many songs so many records. ever since bibis in bradford in 1983, three of us in the audience and the band, grant's music has been there in the background of my life. and it will always be so. thanks for everything. my warmest thoughts to all those mourning grant right now. | ||
| owen Unregistered guest |
thank you, rock and roll friend. | ||
| Dave Haslam Unregistered guest |
Very sad loss, and my heartfelt condolences to his family, and friends. I had the pleasure of seeing the band many times and meeting Grant also, and last time he was in my town we all went out post-show partying. Being a gifted songwriter he was someone special, but also, as I was lucky enough to discover, he was a great person, so friendly and authentic and that made him even more special. He's left us with magical, magical music. I'm gutted he's gone. Hugs for Robert Forster. Maximum respect for Grant. Rest In Peace. Never to be forgotten. | ||
| Niall Brennan, Wash DC Unregistered guest |
"Letters that we're writing, baby they just break our hearts, and when we're back together again, there's just no time to start" Thank you for your genius Grant - I am still in shock at the news and my thoughts and prayers are with your friends and family. Its a sad, sad day..... | ||
| Richard Lim Member Username: Re17 Post Number: 23 Registered: 05-2005 |
Having altered its website yesterday to note Grant's passing, Beggars Banquet has now made "Fingers" available as a free download. http://www.beggars.com/banquet/index.htm | ||
| Ciaran C Unregistered guest |
There's not a lot I can add to what has been said so eloquently here already. I first saw Grant when he played an acoustic gig with Robert in Dublin a few years ago. I was just blown away at the time by how much drama and emotion could be generated by two guys playing acoustic guitars. I have seen the Go-Betweens every time they played in Dublin since then and they have been amongst the most memorable gigs I have ever been to. A very sad day indeed..... | ||
| Pablo McB Unregistered guest |
This is a very sad loss - Grant was easily one of the greats - RIP Grant "I don't want to change a thing when there's magic"................... | ||
| Miriam Unregistered guest |
When I went away to university in Dublin in 1988, my brother gave me a cassette of Tallulah and the Go-Betweens became my constant companion during that year and many years to follow. I never did get to see them live. In fact it became a standing joke that whenever they were in town, I would be elsewhere. Or I would arrive in a city to find that they had played there the night before. And now, well... it's just too sad. Thank you Grant for wonderful songs that are part of me and my life and will remain so forever. Heartfelt condolences to Grant's family, friends and especially to Robert. | ||
| Mark Unregistered guest |
I heard this morning and nearly started crying at my desk. I'm going to miss him terribly. | ||
| andrea kittenmouse Unregistered guest |
I didn't know Grant personally...I only knew the band from when my radio station was sent a copy of their album "the Friends of Rachel Worth", and I could never stop playing the song "The Clock". Played it every week for months. It's the kind of song where listening to it makes your heart feel light and heavy at the same time. The best kind of song. I can only imagine the kind of great person Grant was from listening to a song like that, and what a great loss his death brings to his friends and family. Best wishes to all of them. | ||
| Mathias Unregistered guest |
This is terrible news for all of us, who always loved the Go-Betweens and always will. On behalf of our band >Rescue The Anne< (with Frank, Thomas and Jörg), I send our condolences to those left behind. Mathias | ||
| Lauren Unregistered guest |
I discovered the Go-Betweens when I was 17 years old and was lucky enough to see them twice in recent years. Thank you for the music Grant, I'll be playing the albums when I get home | ||
| Gerard Lynch Unregistered guest |
I saw the band perform in Dublin in 89 supporting REM and again about 12 years later. Their albums and the solo work that Grant released are majestic and that legacy will mean we will remember him as one of the greats. | ||
| Jochen Unregistered guest |
I had the pleasure to see the Grant & the band at the Fabrik last May in Hamburg, and it was one of the best shows I've ever seen in my personal 30 years concert history. An unforgettabel evening with two songwriters at the climax of their abilities. I'm terribly sorry for Grants family, Robert, Adele and Glen, and I will listen to their Hamburg concert cd which I got gladfully from a local recording radio station now as a requiem, tonight and forever. Hope it's good where you are right now, Grant ... | ||
| Bill Hanson Unregistered guest |
As the host of a specialty radio show in the states I had the good fortune of playing Grant's music for years. A friend of mine turned me onto The Go-Betweens in college and when I had the opportunity to interview Grant via telephone many years ago, he called my friend and left a message on his answering machine which totally freaked him out. He was a sweet and humble man and I'm stunned at his passing. Thank you for everything, Grant. | ||
| Lee Bradshaw Unregistered guest |
Dear old friend. How we'll all miss you and cherish all the more those wonderful memories of Brisbane in the late 70s. | ||
| JMC Unregistered guest |
From Madrid, with great sadness. Thanks for your songs. | ||
| Jenko1967 Unregistered guest |
Sorry, got to post again... The Go-Betweens were always 'my' band, that's just the sort of band they were, singing it just for me. It's great to read that so many people felt they were 'their' band. I've cried but I know I'm not the only one. | ||
| Chris, UK Unregistered guest |
Only last week I was having that 'You've never heard the Go-Betweens?' conversation with some friends in my local. The compilation is complete, Grant's music will continue to reach people even now he's gone. Love Goes On, indeed. | ||
| Chip Tennille Unregistered guest |
This news makes me very sad. I discovered the GB's back in high school on WZBC out of Boston College. They played "Cattle and Cane" and I was hooked. "To Reach Me" remains one of my favorite songs EVER. That guitar solo, so simple and poignant, still brings a tear to my eye every time I hear it. Grant, wherever you are, may your spirit be at peace and thank you for touching my young life so many years ago. | ||
| andywaltzer Unregistered guest |
Grant was one of these rare artists who were blessed with a heart and mind that were as bright as all outdoors. His songs were the precious soundtrack to the first crushes, long distance friendships and longings of my teen years and then in the years to come provided both encouragement and a solace during times of loss and renewal of spirit. It was an honour to host Grant and Robert on the radio- I especially loved when I asked who each others favorite songwriters were (to which they responded with each others names). This is a deep loss..the only positive thought I have is that we can recognize the need to create music that glistens with beauty and wit, in honour of Grant, and to help make life better in the manner that he did. Thank You For All Grant, you will be so truly missed. Andy | ||
| Alexis Petridis Unregistered guest |
Bless you Grant, you made the world a more magical place. They say you shouldn't meet your heroes, but you were a lovely guy: kind and witty and warm and wise and enormously accomodating to an increasingly drunk English journalist telling you what a genius you were, how the Go Betweens' albums were as good as any albums ever made, how Philip Larkin would have been proud to write a line like "the rain hit the roof with the sound of a finished kiss, like a lip lifted from a lip", and - and this must have been particularly gripping for you - exactly how the lyrics of various Go-Betweens songs corresponded to his memories of various ex-girlfriends, instead of doing his job properly and interviewing you. Then again, I wouldn't have got increasingly drunk if you hadn't kept buying me drinks. I'm so glad I got the opportunity to tell you how much your music meant to me. I'm listening to Bye Bye Pride, and thinking of you, and Robert, and your family and close friends. And it still sounds as good as anything ever made. Thank you for everything, mate. xxx | ||
| Amy Tompkins Member Username: Xenophile Post Number: 1 Registered: 03-2006 |
Shocking news, and so sad. I hate irony. Why did the fella in the brite nitegown have to show up for the party? He might have waited a few more decades. There was so much more music yet to be made. This is a terrible loss. I will never be able to thank him for all the joy that his music brought into my life. But I'll listen again to it all ... keeps you walking through these tears. My most heartfelt condolences to Grant's friends and family. With love and sorrow Amy | ||
| Buddykins Unregistered guest |
There are VERY few artists whose work I would consistently collect without question and GW was one of those few to me. For the past two days I've been listening to a favorites compilation I made several months ago it's still hard to believe there won't be any more or those beautiful catchy tunes on the horizon. Thank you for all the wonderful heart felt songs GW, There's going to be a huge hole in my music collection from now on. Peace, JHT | ||
| Padraic, Dublin Unregistered guest |
Still can't believe it. I'm gutted. What an impoverished place the world suddenly seems. I had the good fortune and privilege to talk him last year and it's something that now means the world to me. Over the years I saw The Go-Betweens three times, including once in Sydney, and they were never less than inspirational. As songwriters McLennan and Forster have always embodied everything I love about music and art. Thankfully, Grant's songs - fearless, honest, heart-shatteringly poignant as they are - will live on. My condolences to his family and friends. What a terrible loss. | ||
| Ulisses de Freitas Member Username: Ulisses_de_freitas Post Number: 1 Registered: 05-2006 |
Thanks for all you beatiful songs, Grant. You, Robert Forster and The Go-Betweens have a little fan club in BRazil. I'm really sad and since yesterday I've been playing all the Go-Betweens records and solos by McLennan. Please. My condolences to family, relatives, friends and all Go-Betweens members and fans. | ||
| Jérôme Unregistered guest |
16 lovers lane is really dear to me. I'm glad I had the chance to see Grant live in Paris, some years ago, as a part of the Go-Betweens. All posts here show how Grant was a kind person, which is so rare in the music business. My thoughts go to the families and friends, and to all the people to whom Grant's music is important. | ||
| Richard Smeth Unregistered guest |
Can't believe the news. Only just found out, now I just want to be at home with all the great records he left us. x | ||
| Bubba Unregistered guest |
Godspeed, Grant. I can't believe you're gone. So soon, so young... This fan in Linkoping, Sweden, will miss you for ever. I recall buying 16LL in 1997 when visiting Melbourne. So many names and comments above mine here, good to see some of your fellow artists (Teenage Fanclub, Chris from the Walks) posting here as well. Will sit down and listen to "Horsebreaker Star" now, with a cup of tea. Maybe a beer later, and a G-B album... | ||
| Matthias Strzoda, Hamburg Unregistered guest |
Been looking forward to having another wine spodie-odie with you some day soon... Well, talk to you later then, old sport. In fond memory of a rocker Matthias | ||
| Peter Makepeace Unregistered guest |
I heard the news just this morning and have spent the day feeling numb with sadness and loss. Thanks, Grant, for so many wonderful songs and stunning live shows. You touched a lot of hearts all over the world. | ||
| Eduard Solano caballé Unregistered guest |
SAD NEWS. I just wanna say goodbye and really remark that you are into our hearts. We love your music. | ||
| Matt F Unregistered guest |
The streets in my town will seem a little more empty. /salute | ||
| Arbs Unregistered guest |
Grant and the Go-Betweens coloured my world from a dreary grey to a wonderful, multi-coloured hue. I'll miss you lots Grant! | ||
| DavidJames Unregistered guest |
I found the go-betweens at age 16, first song was 'apology accepted' and it was the last song on a tape somebody made for me called "In Search of Fresh Air" - and from there I never looked back. They were so good and unique on record, I could never picture them as just a "band." I still remember a girl i used to like said to me one afternoon in her bedroom, "have you heard "The Clarke Sisters" yet? It's like "On My Block (part 2)" She 'got it' - as all the others on this board did. Go-Betweens, more than any other, were my "go-to band" Say hello to Strummer for me, and godspeed Grant. | ||
| javier t. prewitt Unregistered guest |
so sad... i don´t know what to say... sad... met him a few years ago... so gentle and kind... and now... we´ll miss him... miss his songs too... he´s been an inspiration for me and my music... dunno... javi(er) | ||
| Bill Georgaris Unregistered guest |
I've been a GB fan since the mid-80's. I've found myself emotionally and physically weeping over the last day or so. Music really can shoot straight through the heart. I've been sooooo touched by all the messages on this board. Aside from the glorious GB-stuff, let's also not forget about G.W's exquisite solo records. I love you Grant.... p.s. I hope Bobby is doing OK. | ||
| peter ward Member Username: Peter_ward Post Number: 7 Registered: 06-2005 |
Just recieved the terrible news of Grant's passing on arrival to work this morning, sincere condolances to his family and friends and thanks for some of the most gorgeous pop songs ever recorded and the live shows that provided wall to wall smiles. Baby, You Won't Find It Again. | ||
| Thanassis Unregistered guest |
Thank you for your beautiful Music, Grant! Have fun in Heaven. CU | ||
| Andreas Mayer Unregistered guest |
Summer 1989 was my private summer of love and the soundtrack of that time had been 16 lovers lane by the go-betweens. Since then their music had the ability to make me smile on even the lousiest day, like all great memories do. Now, it will never be like that again. I'll miss you Grant. | ||
| Lynn John Cunningham Unregistered guest |
My heart goes out to Grant's family, Robert, and his loved ones To Grant, though we never met, you've been a great friend and constant companion these past 20 years, though the good times and the rougher moments as well. thank you. | ||
| kjesso, norway Unregistered guest |
this is very sad indeed. the go-betweens are the only band i've seen live in three different decades, they've been among my favorite bands for ages, and i cannot think of any other band being able to deliver such a stunning album as oceans apart more than twenty years after their debut. i will miss you. | ||
| Ian Unregistered guest |
I`m very sad today. Been playing Go-Betweens a lot and thinking of the news. I never saw them live but their music has been a part of my life for many years and will continue to be. Thanks for the great songs Grant. | ||
| Miranda J. Smith Unregistered guest |
This news has hit me in the gut. I am a relatively recent fan, only having discovered The Go-Betweens and Grant's music in 1999. The show they played at Mercury Lounge last year was one of the best I've ever been to in my life, and I was looking forward to new music and to their returning to play here. I extend my deepest sympathies to Grant's family, friends and loved ones, as well as to Robert and the rest of the band. He will be sorely missed here in New York. Best, Miranda J. Smith New York City | ||
| Tiago Unregistered guest |
Thank you, Go-Betweens. Though one of you is now dead, what you did in your lifetime will endure in my lifetime. I was just listening to Liberty Belle on my car. It is a sunny late afternoon here, now. Tiago Porto, PORTUGAL | ||
| Albert Unregistered guest |
In Barcelona, we'll remember all your shows Thanks, Grant, for all that beautiful moments!! People Say that Love Goes On in the Streets Of Your Town. | ||
| Matt Roseblade Unregistered guest |
The Horsebreaker Star shines brighter tonight. | ||
| Paraic Morrissey Unregistered guest |
I read the news today , oh boy ... I can't believe you're gone - I feel like I've lost a mate . No more Go-Betweens gigs/albums . Never again that striped sunlight sound recreated on stage . This is a sad , sad day . Thanks for everything your music has meant to me over the past 20+ years . To your family and bandmates , my thoughts are with you . Goodbye , Grant , and thanks for all the magic. | ||
| julia motzko Member Username: Julia Post Number: 19 Registered: 05-2005 |
I'm simply crushed. I couldn't do anything else today and yesterday but think of Grant and that he's dead now - a truth still very hard to accept. The Go-Betweens mean a lot to me, and it's so cruel that Grant has passed away so early. I assumed that the band would accompany my and many other fans' lives with new albums and concerts a long time into the future. I am glad though that they have accomplished their dvd project, capturing Grant on film; singing, talking and laughing. My heart goes out to the ones he loved. | ||
| Axel Matzke Unregistered guest |
We will miss your music! Condolences to those near to him and who loved him. Susanne and Axel, Germany | ||
| alleykat Unregistered guest |
I can only say thanks mate! Grant, you will be always among us. A fan from Peru, South America. | ||
| kai freyer Unregistered guest |
bye bye, grant. your songs enriched my life for 15 years. thank you so much. | ||
| Samantha Unregistered guest |
I was gutted when I heard the news. So sad. Thanks Grant for the wonderful music and words. RIP. | ||
| John Unregistered guest |
I am so sorry and saddened. Although a stranger I feel I've lost a dear friend because of the power and reach of his songs and music - solo or with Robert. My deepest sympathy go out to Grant's family & loved ones, and to Robert and his fellow Go-Betweens - past and present. John, Heidelberg (where I grinned from ear to ear with joy watching them on tour - it is so truly sad words fail me) | ||
| Nick From Norfolk Unregistered guest |
Like A lot of people on this board, I was first introduced to the genius of The Go-betweens when I heard Cattle and Cane on the John Peel show back in 1983. Since that day Grant and Robert's music have been omnipresent in my life and have helped me through some quite dark times. This is very, very sad news and my deepest sympathies go out to Grant's family and friends. I just have to hope Grant is up there now with Kirsty and Joe, chilling out and having a beer or two! | ||
| Mark P Member Username: Youamwho Post Number: 1 Registered: 05-2006 |
To Grant and family, bandmates, friends and all he's touched anlong his way ...SHINE ON... for we are all of us in your bright ray! Grant is truly missed. Mark | ||
| David Hindmarsh Unregistered guest |
Very, very sad news. Reading through the tributes makes me think of those magical nights on the Renfrew Ferry and Tuts, Hearts and Homes, Bye Bye Pride, The Statue. Very privileged to have listened to Grant and from the amount of postings here from Glasgow, it seems he touched many of us. We've lost one of the very, very best. David Glasgow | ||
| Chris Biggs Unregistered guest |
Thanks for all the joy. This list is just the tip of the iceberg. (I hope Grant forgives the cliche. Remember the toaster!) | ||
| fsh Member Username: Fsh Post Number: 75 Registered: 05-2005 |
I was listening to the Dave Fanning radio show this evening on rte 2 (Irish radio station) which featured Grant many times. It was the first I'd heard ... It's almost 20 years to the day when he first was first interviewed by Dave Fanning (10 May 1986). I had that cassette for years until it was stolen with my car and I'd never tired of playing it. That interview turned me on to the go-betweens and I've held on reasonably tight since. So sad to hear of Grant's passing. And how strange that his mother and I suppose many of her now elderly friends that he seemed to pay tribute to in his songwriting outlive him. And so it came to pass .... | ||
| steffen straub Unregistered guest |
reading all these memories of people who were fortunate of getting to know you personally, one gets the impression that the way you left last Friday night was the way you played parts in peoples' lives: just dropping by and having a warm and heartfelt time together for a short while, always with a fine line to sing along with, not taking yourself too seriously and than just leaving without a long goodbye... but the memories will keep you alive. Thanks a lot for what you gave me, especially in the days of growing up in Southern Germany in the late 80's Steffen, Zurich | ||
| Velma deSelby Bowen Unregistered guest |
My condolences to his family and friends -- may his memory be a comfort to you all. His music is one of the great joys of my marriage, one of the things my husband introduced me to that continues to bring us together. I will think of him often. | ||
| Gareth Walker Unregistered guest |
Just heard the news. Condolences to all family and friends. I was lucky enough to see the Go-Betweens at a rare gig in Glasgow in the mid-90s at the Garage. Have seen a few bands over the years but not many have caused the hair to stand on the back of my neck due to the sheer beauty of music and lyrics. Thank you. | ||
| Kirstin & Ralf Unregistered guest |
this is so sad, we can't believe it! R.I.P. with love kirstin & ralf frankfurt/germany | ||
| Stiggo Unregistered guest |
God Speed young Grant. Wonderful memories of formative years discovering girls with your music as the soundtrack.WIll be very sadly missed. | ||
| dero Unregistered guest |
VERY VERY SORRY & VERY VERY SAD HE MADE IT A BIGGER BRIGHTER WORLD dero Sligo Ireland | ||
| Steve C Unregistered guest |
So so sorry to hear this devastating news my heart is heavy and my eyes tearful condolences to his family and girlfriend I'm lucky enough to have met Grant and a warmer, friendlier bloke you'd NEVER meet RIP xo | ||
| joe atkinson Unregistered guest |
Unbelievable! Not sure what to say, just wanted to say it somewhere. R.I.P Grant. love (goes on) Joe Glastonbury. UK | ||
| john Unregistered guest |
just heard the news. im shocked and gutted. just got the live in london album last week and was wondering when they'd be back in dublin again. so many great gigs and albums . rest in peace Grant | ||
| Andrew Unregistered guest |
I'm not really what you could describe as a "hardcore" Go-Betweens fan (as of yet!) but some years ago my brother played me their "best of" CD (Bellavista Terrace which I later bought for myself) and really took a shine to a lot of the songs including "Cattle & Cane", "Batchelor Kisses" and especially "Streets of Your Town". I always planned to get round to listening to some (all) of their proper albums (still haven't as of yet but will endeavour to do so!) Condolences to Grant's family and friends as well as the rest of the band. R.I.P! | ||
| Matthew Plumb Unregistered guest |
I was so sad when I read the news. It was through Grant's songs (Right Here, Cattle And Cane) that I first became a huge Go-Betweens fan. My deepest sympathies to his family and friends. He will be missed. | ||
| Marcy, NYC Unregistered guest |
It was love at first listen ("Spring Rain" 1987) and it will be a bleaker aural world without Grant in it. | ||
| Duarte Rebelo Unregistered guest |
Somehow my summers have always been touched by the go-betweens songs. They are the perfect soundtrack for sunny days and journeys at the beach. This summer will be special. You will always be reminded. Love, Duarte, Portugal | ||
| Sean Rawls Unregistered guest |
I was completely shocked and sick to my stomach to read that Grant McLennan died in his sleep on May 6th, my birthday. Judging by how I'm feeling right now, it's actually a good thing that I read this devastating news on my birthday, amidst distraction. I'm also thankful that my band was able to play one of his songs that night during our set, with no practice, and play it reasonably well. To die at 48 with no known health problems is a hard thing to swallow. He was a brilliant songwriter and lyricist and a left a great big, warm, witty, shimmering, pristine mark on the lives of myself and countless other fans. There are so many songs of his that I will love for rest of my life. The one positive thing that my thoughts keep gravitating towards is how glad I am for their show last summer. At the time I knew it was one of the best shows of my life, and now it's firmly entrenched in the number one spot. I can see David Byrne again. I can see Bruce Springsteen. I'll never see Grant again. | ||
| adalmiro alberto ferreira Unregistered guest |
My deepest thoughts to Grant's family, bandmates and friends. You are still one of my former band's inspirations, the Go-betweens have played in Oporto (Vale Formoso Cinema, a gig we'll never forget; and our vinyl and cd collections have been enriched with all your solo and band issues. Greetings from a Portuguese fan, many thanks for so much poetry, kindness and energy. Alberto Paredes(Portugal) | ||
| Andy Greenwald Member Username: Agreenwald Post Number: 3 Registered: 03-2005 |
As many others have said, it's a tricky thing to meet your heroes -- especially as your second ever interview as a "professional" journalist! But Grant put me right at ease back in June of '99 with his gentle voice and his steady stare and when I blabbered out something about how deeply and dearly I loved his music he just looked at me and said "I can tell you that you do." And, small as it might seem, I've never forgotten that moment. I wish I had told him even more. The Go-Betweens have been and always will be my favorite band. Sitting here stinging from the loss of all the songs yet to be written, I'll try and remind myself of all the magic we already have. Grant and Robert were twice-in-a-lifetime songwriters and the two together were utterly unique. Thank you, Grant, for your music and your life. All of my heart goes out to those who knew him and loved him. Andy | ||
| Janice Unregistered guest |
Have just heard and can't believe it. Amongst many other things, I will miss his lovely smile. It's just too sad. | ||
| bruce Unregistered guest |
So sad to hear the news about Grant - loved the "Friends of Rachel Worth" album, couldn't believe they came back with such a classic. Will be listening to it tonight. Thanks for everything Grant. Bruce | ||
| Rachel Davison Unregistered guest |
I feel so sad that I'll never see Grant live on stage again. It seems like his voice, his songs have been with me most of my life, always filling me with joy and hope. Tonight, I think I'll play Bye Bye Pride. Thanks for it all, Grant, & my thoughts are with your family. | ||
| David Leaming Unregistered guest |
I only discovered the music of the go-betweens a few months ago through reading about them on channel4 teletext in the UK. I bought ocean's apart which is a cracking album and have since bought lovers lane and liberty belle. I am looking forward to discovering the other cds. I read about Grant's passing on teletext when I got home and it is very sad and untimely. I never met Grant nor ever saw the go-betweens and I envy those who knew Grant and saw the band. Reading the tributes on here, those who knew him where privileged to share in his life. Enjoy the memories and condolances to those who loved Grant. RIP | ||
| Richard Smith Unregistered guest |
Damn! I was told the news today. Just wanted to get home and play the records he left us. Hear I am, listening to 'Love Goes On'. My favourite album ever is 'Liberty Belle and The Black Diamond Express'. I don't think I could pick just one Grant's songs. I'm reminded of that line of Robert's on the Able Label singles; "their music is perfect, as perfect as pop could ever be.' Thanks Grant. Richard x | ||
| Lorraine Freeney Unregistered guest |
It's been two days since I heard the news and it still hasn't sunk in. Reading these posts and listening to the albums has been a sad and lovely way to spend the time since. I hesitated to post, because how do you sum up your love for a band who've been the soundtrack to your life for twenty years? So many wonderful shows, so many unforgettable nights and friendships formed over our shared adoration for the band. Like many here I was lucky enough to meet Grant a few times - he and Robert both were more charming, kind, and generous than I could have hoped. Their show in Vicar Street, Dublin two years ago stands out as one of the best nights of my life - hearing them break into the opening chords of The Wrong Road, the first Go Betweens song I ever heard, was one of those moments you never forget. Heartfelt condolences to his family and friends. Thank you for everything. | ||
| Shabba Unregistered guest |
Got an email in the small hours from a friend in Sydney, and am still trying to take it in. McLennan was always especially good at calling up a whole mood simply through an (apparently) throwaway phrase - try playing Dusty in Here to anyone who lost a parent early and you'll see what I mean - but right now I'm playing Streets of Your Town, and imagining the blue skies of that song's world. I wish Grant McLennan cloudless skies; rest in peace. | ||
| Philip Unregistered guest |
The best way to spoil a beautiful, carelessly lazy and sunny day is to be confronted with news that really hurts. As happened to me yesterday, when I was informed about the sad, sad loss of Grant. Many are the nights when I stayed awake, drinking some wine in the half-darkness of my livingroom,listening to those wonderful, melancholy songs he wrote and sang. Thanks Grant, for everything you did whenever you were needed. I can't quite believe you're gone and keep wondering if there's Ice in heaven. I guess you will know by now. | ||
| Des Unregistered guest |
Words fail. I am devastated by the news. My deepest condolences to family and friends and especially Robert. All we can do is carry on. | ||
| Claire & Gareth Price Unregistered guest |
So sad to hear this news. Thanks for writing some of the most breath takingly perfect songs ever. We will think of you often. | ||
| Dermot Mahon Unregistered guest |
On saturday night i met an old friend and we talked about music that meant something to us. we spoke of the Watershed album and i thanked my friend for letting me borrow it when it was first released. I first saw the Go-Betweens in Dublin in 1989 and have seen them every time they retunred to play in Dublin. I love their music and their live shows were just so uplifting and magical. i only heard the news about an hour ago and i am in shock. I never met Grant but his music means so much to me and he will be sadly missed. This is the first time i have 'lost' a musical icon and i am so, so sad right now. May he rest in peace. Slan, a chara. | ||
| Lissa Ross, LA Unregistered guest |
Farewell Grant, my old friend. I'm still in shock as I just heard the sad news on KCRW here in LA. Lots of old memories are flooding back from our early days in Brisbane when I played the drums live on stage with you and Robert (for the first time). Hanging out at your house and listening to all your favourite records, and rehearsing Karen and Lee Remmick... I have fond memories of your performances every time the Go Betweens returned to tour Australia. The last time I spoke to you was at the Troubadour here in LA a few years ago and back stage we caught up on what we've both been doing since those early years. What beautiful songs you wrote and what touching messages you have here from friends and fans from all over the world. You will be forever missed and my deepest sympathy goes out to your family and friends. May you continue to play beautiful music in the afterlife and inspire us with your wonderful legacy of songs. R.I.P. Lissa Ross Go Betweens first girl drummer.... | ||
| This Girl Unregistered guest |
Throughout cancer treatment, I leanrnt how to do guided imagery as a way to deal with the pain and nausea. I created many milieus of 'happy places' I could 'go to' to escape the misery. Many of these featured various favorite musicians strumming quietly to me. Grant and Robert appeared many times in these tableaux, Grant being the smiling one. I thank him for the peace he brought to all of our corners of the world, however small they may be. Mahalo, Grant. Rest in peace. | ||
| Ted Leo Unregistered guest |
Wow - my condolences to all of Grant's family and friends. This is a really big loss. So many of his songs are never far from the tip of my tongue, and in so many moments of silence on so many long drives or so many long late nights at home, they come out, unbidden, and fill the void. And they'll always be with us. Thank you, Grant. | ||
| STEPHEN Unregistered guest |
On Saturday night in Glasgow a girl asked me what kind of music I liked. I told her that my favourite group was the Gobetweens. She apologised and said she had never heard of them. It seems an uncanny coincidence that just hours later, through the fug of hangover on a dreary west of Scotland morning, my pal called me over to his PC and showed me the dreadful news. Like everyone else on here I'm shocked. I have a varied musical taste but the one constant was The Gobetweens. Since falling in love with Springhill Fair, I bought every subsequent album on the first available day and went to see them every time they played here.I played their songs to anyone who was willing to listen and I dont know a single person who hasnt loved Bachelor Kisses when Ive put it on a compilation tape for them.As some others have said, more eloquently, their gigs were simply a joy. Roberts humour and Grants warmth seemed to permeate whichever venue they were playing and I never, ever left a Gobetweens gig disappointed. No other band has produced such consistently great albums and even maintained this after reforming, something which rarely works. If there is an upside to this sadness, its that they have left an unrivalled body of work and if time has not diminished Springhill Fair and Liberty Belle the Oceans Apart will forman equal part of that lasting legacy when it too sounds as good in 20 years time as I does today. My abiding memory of them will be when Grant and Robert first played together after reforming in 2000(?). I was standing next to my sister and turned round to her during "Part Company", to see tears streaming down her face. Thinking something was wrong I was about to ask when she merely shook her head and said quietly " That is absoultely f***ing brilliant" And she was right. I live in Kilmarnock in SW Scotland and over the years friends and relatives from the town have moved elsewhere. No matter what directions our lives had taken, we always seemed to find time for one thing, The Gobetweens. They were that kind of band. THANKS. | ||
| Aidan McSweeney,Guildford Unregistered guest |
Just got a text from a friend with the very sad news. Thanks for the memories! R.I.P. | ||
| sad song Unregistered guest |
i saw Go Betweens last year at the Grand Mix (North of France), and yeah, Grant's songs are so full of positive and lovely things. The live show they gave was fresh, immediate and made everybody happy, it means great songs, great band and tears now. condolences to family | ||
| chris marsh Member Username: Hurnreading Post Number: 1 Registered: 05-2006 |
it hard to find the right words at a time like this, but grant gave so much pleasure through his music he will be missed by so many. keep on trucking robert,you can't stop now... | ||
| michi pet, graz Unregistered guest |
thanx for everything, grant! | ||
| Ronan Unregistered guest |
Very sad to hear about Grant. His songs had real warmth and emotion. Apology accepted is one of the greatest songs ever written. | ||
| António Machado Unregistered guest |
Goodbye Grant We will miss you Came back to Lisboa (your favourite city...) to haunt us "One light, one light's all you need to keep the dark out” It Could Be Anyone | ||
| Tadhg Dublin Unregistered guest |
I first saw the Go Betweens in Trinity College Dublin about 1985-6 at a free lunchtime concert. Maybe 50-100 people. Maybe I dreamed it. I'm still not sure. Either way you entered my world to make it a much better place. Was just checking to see if they were heading back to Ireland anytime soon when I saw the news. Can't really find the words to express my feelings so I just offer my deepest sympathies to family and friends. Thank you Grant, you were there when I needed you most. Rest in peace. | ||
| Luko J Unregistered guest |
Thanks for the years of incredible music. I will forever treasure the TG-B '04 gig in London's Barbican. A big and SO sudden loss. Rest in peace, Love always. Luko x | ||
| Christof, Hamburg Unregistered guest |
Last Friday night, I pulled out my tour T-shirt from the last Go-Betweens tour and put it on. I wore it all night. I remember a friend looking at me that evening and reading Robert’s "Dostoevsky" line from my shirt. I had no idea that this would be the last night of Grant’s life. Now all that’s left is to sit here and listen to the haunting atmosphere of "Magic In Here" and all those other simply perfect songs. Somehow I felt safe and assured believing this would go on forever – new songs from arcadia every other year. Well -- Thank you. Grant, for enriching and enlighting my life for more than 20 years. | ||
| Thomas Koch Unregistered guest |
I travelled all the way from Denmark to Australia in 1988 to see the Go-Betweens in Sydney at Sydney Trade Union Club and the gave a fantastic show. I told Grant about my trip to Sydney, at a Go-Betweens concert in Copenhagen a couple of years ago when he was signing a cd for me. He thought it was cool that I had been there and he was very nice. Thank you for writing some of the best tunes ever. Thank you for writing some of the best songs ever. Thank you for writing probably the best song ever: Bachelor Kisses From a big fan | ||
| andy griff Unregistered guest |
i too was at that barbican concert and "bye bye pride" was one of the most uplifting things i've ever witnessed. thank you for so many wonderful songs. this is just too sad. | ||
| Robin Unregistered guest |
Shocked and gutted. It's great to find a band when you're young and to grow up with them - and they always seem to speak to you at every stage of your life - and the gobies were my band. A favourite memory is watching the band in the Barbican a couple of years ago and the look of relief on Grant's and the drummer's face having reached the end of Cattle And Cane in one piece - beautiful! Thanks Grant - my thoughts and prayers are with you, your family, Robert and the band. | ||
| Zoran Popovic Unregistered guest |
Rest in peace, Grant! Your beautiful soul and talent will always be remembered and missed. Deepest condolances to Grant's family, band, friends and fans. Very sad, Zoran Popovic (Belgrade - New York City) | ||
| loveless Unregistered guest |
I am so sad. R I P Grant. | ||
| david dublin Unregistered guest |
condolences to to Grant's family, friends,dearest, and band members we will all miss him in our own way but for me it was beautiful lyrics infectious melodies and happiness thanks for that happiness but today i'm saddened and shocked | ||
| Ireland Unregistered guest |
Grant-Irish Radio Tributes The Go-Betweens were more popular in Ireland than anywhere else on the planet. I'm delighted so to say that this evening (Monday)both national Irish radio stations aired tributes to Grant. Dave Fanning on Irish state radio RTE (http://www.rte.ie/2fm/davefanning/) did a special show with vintage Grant interviews and critic George Byrne in the studio. While an hour later, Today FM's (www.todayfm.com) Pet Sounds with Tom Dunne discussed Grant's legacy and played a string of Go Betweens classics. Both shows read out text after text from sad Irish fans. You'd swear they'd been an Irish band. | ||
| BernyManspeaker Unregistered guest |
What a shock to learn about Grant's passing away. All the strength must go to his family and fellow band members. My first encounter with Grant and Robert(and the rest of the GB'S) was in Rotterdam in the early 1980's. They were playing with the Crime and city solution. Whenever they played in Holland after that, I tried to see them. Sometimes even went to Belgium, especially to see them on their last tour in the late eighties. After their parting I saw Grant doing a show with his new band around 1996 in Amsterdam. He played a couple of songs , that were never released, such as The sign of the Unicorn. Last year in Amsterdam was to be our last meeting. A fine human being with an exceptional musical talent has left us. His musical gift will still be with us down here. | ||
| Nigel Wheatley Member Username: Nigel_wheatley Post Number: 7 Registered: 05-2005 |
After reading the review for 'Before Hollywood' in the NME, I listened to the album and took the Go-Betweens to my heart like no other group, before or since. When they packed in, mid eighties, disillusioned and underated, it was a big blow. This was lessened somewhat when they, eventually, surprisingly, reformed over ten years later. It was like talking to old friends you never thought you'd see again. Now Grant has gone forever, and it's surely the end of the Go-Betweens. Thanks for enriching our lives Grant. I will treasure the memory of meeting you last year, always. | ||
| Steve Unregistered guest |
I cried this morning when I heard the news. The Go-Betweens only came into my life last year, thank God they did, such beautiful music. Thank you Grant, God bless, Steve | ||
| aad Member Username: Aad Post Number: 1 Registered: 08-2005 |
I came in after a fun Saturday night out to receive the forum email and was truly shocked. My heart instantly went to Robert. But my memories of litening to and loving Grant's work have been flooding back over the past day or so, remembering a fantastic show at The Forum, London, a few years ago, when the band had reformed, and with every song thinking 'This is the best song ever' then thinking the same thing when the next one was played. Lyrics such as 'The rain hit the roof with the sound of a finished kiss. like a lip lifting off a lip' are swimming around my head. It's awful when people die, but Grant, with your songs, you've left the world a better place than it would have been without you. With love | ||
| xianas Unregistered guest |
You've been very important to me amd my live. My undying love and respect. Your love goes on, quiet heart! Chris, Germany | ||
| Peter Carbery Unregistered guest |
It all started for me with an NME compilation tape in 1983, Bachelor Kisses tucked discreetly in among some tracks long since forgotten. But not that one. In the flesh: the Astoria in 1988 and 2003, the Forum in '97, the Jazz Cafe in '99, the Barbican in 2004, Shepherd's Bush Empire last year...and a million memories in between. My wife Andrea was one week overdue with our daughter the night of the Jazz Cafe gig, but that was never going to stop her from coming along and seeing what is still one of the top 5 shows I've had the privilege of seeing. We met Grant in the bar afterwards: he was just as everyone here has described. Unpretentious, warm, funny, genuinely interested in what we had to say. A star without the bull. When we heard the news today it was a terrible shock, so what his family and friends must be feeling can only be imagined. But we've just gone through the entire Go-Betweens catalogue over a glass or 10 of wine, and there were more smiles than tears. Not a bad legacy to leave, Mr. McLennan. Cheers for making our lives that much brighter. God bless, and may you never see the devil's eye... x | ||
| Dave Spencer Unregistered guest |
Goodbye Grant, and thanks for all those beautiful songs that illuminated with pure sunlight all the darkest corners of my life. I carry them with me forever. Love & Light Dave | ||
| Michael Barone Unregistered guest |
Hello, I can't quite articulate how sad Grant's passing has made me. I have been a GoBetweens admirer since the mid 80's and many times their music has been the soundtrack of my life. I was lucky enough to have seen them 6 times, the last time being less than a year ago in Brooklyn, NY and they were undoubtedly on top of their game. Grant and Robert's melodies and lyrics made me smile, made me think, broke my heart and made me feel as if I wasn't so alone on many occasions. Their music is like a cherished, old friend and will always be. I hope that Grant is resting in peace and that Robert finds the strength to deal with this terrible loss for us all. Michael -New Haven, Ct. USA | ||
| Teenage Rasputin Unregistered guest |
What's beautiful and sad at the same time is how Grant's fans are finding such comfort and solace in the words of his very own songs...So many of them seem to fit, don't they. I wonder if he knew how many people loved him. You see, this is not casual fandom on display on here. All these poor, bereaved souls (I am one) lived with GM's music, it became part of them, part of their very molecular structure. Grant, the fire you lit in us will burn forever, and, I too, must quote one of your songs, because you said it best: "Our dream won't die". | ||
| DavidA Unregistered guest |
So sad about this. I've been a fan for over twenty years and first saw The Go-Betweens in 1984. I can't quite believe the news. | ||
| David Scattergood Unregistered guest |
His music has been a beacon in my life, and his words a light in a thousand dark places. | ||
| martin brown Unregistered guest |
i am deeply shocked. last saturday night i was having a drink with a girl called tallulah in a bar in london who i used to tease about, and recently i have been playing the new record oceans apart to all my freinds. i was deeply shocked to hear the terrible news the next day. the song bye bye pride was the first song that i heard that opened the door to a much wider musical view. introducing experimentation, the birth of what would be indie rock and a richer poetic stance in pop music. grant mclennon's death very sad indeed. my condolences to all family and friends at the loss of such a great artist. also to all my old freinds who i shared the music with. in sydney kenny davis,annette crowe, martin keller and colin. to my friends in melbourne nick and olie. to especially katy and mick. hope youre ok and of course to terry lyndon,a huge fan. the music goes on! rest in peace, martin brown but the music goes on...! | ||
| Kristen R Unregistered guest |
Taken from this world too soon...and yet the music will live on... | ||
| Fitz Ireland Unregistered guest |
My wife and I are deeply saddened by Grant's passing. The Go-Betweens have featured extensively in our lives - on our wedding night the DJ thought we were bonkers when we kept playing Go-Betweens but even the old spinster aunts liked them. They played the Ambassador in Dublin in 2003 and it was the first and only time I have seen an audience stand after the lights went on and keep chanting until they played a third encore. After the gig Grant came to the pub across the road. He was the most unassuming, pleasent person with time for everybody. We thanked him for all the happy times we had dancing around our kitchen with Go-Betweens blaring. Our heart felt sympathies to your family and friends. Please take comfort in knowing he brought great joy to many around the world - it is a better place because of him. Grant, thanks for all the happy times! | ||
| Alex Tobin Unregistered guest |
It was my pleasure to interview Grant and Robert a few years ago here in the Netherlands. A perfect gentleman and a witty conversation partner. Still in shock... | ||
| Tim A Unregistered guest |
Saddest news have heard in ages. A true loss of someone whose music has given me and so many others so much pleasure. My heart goes out to all who knew him. I first heard the Go-Betweens when I was 19 in 1993 and it feels like as I've grown Grant's songs have always been there, as they always will be. God bless and rest in peace. | ||
| Wally at www.thebeautifulmusic.com Unregistered guest |
I am truly saddened at the loss of another great singer songwriter of my generation - first Nikki Sudden and now Grant. Although I never met him - his music has been an inspiration for years ever since I picked up that first 7" single on Postcard records many moons ago, loving songs like "The Streets Of Your Town" as beautiful pictures are painted indelibly in our minds by the wonderful songs and so much great music from the solo records to the Jack Frost release with Steve Kilbey which is also a real gem. It was also great to see the new music coming out in this decade and it is truly a tragic loss! All of us here at the beautiful music love the musical legacy that you left us ... | ||
| kbehnia Unregistered guest |
Dearest Grant, you warmed up our cold winters and cooled down the blistering summers with your beautiful songs. Deepest symphathies to your family, and friends...especially Robert. Your music will be eternal and will always remind us to enjoy life for it is finite and enjoy love for it is rare and enjoy friends because you can't take them with you. Rest in peace and thank you for the music. "You picked me up, you spun me around, you made me something better. Overnight my fortunes changed now I read old letters..." | ||
| Rob Disner Unregistered guest |
Picked up "Spring Hill Fair" on a whim when it came out, and have been a huge fan ever since. Pretty sure I own everything Grant ever recorded. My old girlfriend who also passed away used to adore "Bachelor Kisses," which makes me love the song that much more now that she is gone. Thanks for all the great songs, Grant. They won't fade soon, and neither will our feelings for you and your superb body of work. | ||
| j.luebke Unregistered guest |
I was literally lost for speech when I read the shocking news yesterday morning and I am still heavily searching for words now. It seems as if a big part of my youth and my being today was shattered to pieces in seconds. Grant's music was, is and will always be a source of consolation and strength to me. My heartfelt thoughts to his family and friends he left behind. Love goes on... | ||
| So many people cries for you in Barcelona Unregistered guest |
I wish to talk to you, to sit near your riffs, to drink Belgian beers, to play guitar together, to contemplate your tender smile, to be the way you have been, making through the years our happiness. I wish I could met you, my favourite lovely band. I'm so shocked, crying for two days, since sunday sunlight shone in my bedroom. To my boundary rider, my rock and roll friend, see you in heaven. | ||
| Peter Lucas Unregistered guest |
this news is very sad and quite shocking. i have so many memories of the go-betweens stretching back to london in 1982-83. hearing "cattle and cane" played on the radio after school on the awful, mainstream london radio station, capital, simply because even a lousy dj with tin ears could hear its amazing beauty. i was almost 18 and saw them for the first of many times shortly after that. a best friend of mine didn't like them at first but i kept at him and he ended up borrowing and taping all their albums. when i was in sydney in 1990, i used to listen to the great 1978-1990 compilation tape on the way to work around darling harbour and it used to take my breath away with the power and grace of robert and grant's words. i saw grant live in sydney then, soon after the band had split. awkwardly, among casual chat, i asked him what robert forster was up to these days and, politely, he replied that he was living in germany. he was quite gracious. in recent years, i saw them here in new york. once also with my old friend from london who'd come round to their cause. finally, last year, i saw them twice in nyc, just to hear those songs again. even though, i didn't hear "cattle and cane", or "unkind or unwise" or etc., etc., it was quite wonderful quite simply, grant, and robert, wrote words, words of grace and intelligence, that both cut to the chase and to the quick. so rare. they were the greatest songwriters of their generation. i'm very sorry that grant has passed, but will listen to go-betweens' music forever. | ||
| Dave Dooley , Ireland Unregistered guest |
Not much to say except that today was one of the saddest days of my life on hearing this news.I first heard of the boys back in 1989 and since then a week never goes by without listening to an album from either their solo or band catalogue.I will miss him dearly and all that remains is to say thank you Grant you were a true jewel. My heartfelt condolences to all his family, friends and of course Rob,Adele and Glenn. "Call me lover, call me baby call me anything but don't call me gone" Don't worry Grant you will always be here. | ||
| Ross Norman Stephenson Member Username: Gob58brizzy Post Number: 1 Registered: 05-2006 |
AS a North Qld boy growing up in Brisbane I related wholeheartedly to the GOB's. I first came across them when I worked with Tim Mustapha & the love affair with them grew from there. Like them I moved to London in 1980 & as I listened to John Peel I heard the GOB's on London radio. I must have seen 90% of all their London gigs large and small but the one that sticks out the most was a 3 Johns concert at a pub in Kings Cross which was cancelled due to a van breaking down or something. Grant was in the audience and a guitar appeared and he gave an acoustic show that I will never forget. That sums him up and his music - always available - I always listen to them and always will, they take me back home to Brisbane - the band I wish I was in, like a lot of people,am sure. Still living in London and was distraught when I came across the Independent obituary page & saw Grant there. Tomorrow in my Cafe in Portobello I will dedicate the day to Grant & the GOB's. As a father my heart goes out to his family & partner, to Robert & to anyone who was blessed with his company & music. He lives on in my memories & his music. God bless you Grant for what you have given us all. | ||
| Lorenzo64 Unregistered guest |
I have just learnt of Grant's sudden passing, and just want to say how saddened I feel, and to send my deepest condolences to his family, friends and, of course, Robert. The Go-Betweens have always been one of my all-time favorite bands, and provided a wonderful soundtrack to my life. They spoke directly to my soul, and felt like good friends that I never met. We have lost a truly gifted musician and lyricist, but his music will live on forever. Goodbye Grant, I'll miss you. | ||
| mark lapoint Unregistered guest |
what really sucks is i never heard of grant or the go-betweens until today, but so far what i have heard i really like, and an bummed i didn't know sooner. | ||
| Brian Cockburn Unregistered guest |
From hearing Lee Remick on 3RTM FM all those years ago through to their most recent London gig, Grant, and Robert's, music has always found a constant place on my turntable and CD player. It is the songs that evoke thoughts and feelings in me that I felt were in their hearts as they made them. Farewell Grant, from a Melbourne boy who has always loved your music. | ||
| Courtney O Unregistered guest |
As a tribute I would just like to say "Thank you!" I have been listening to Grant and the Go-Betweens for close to 20 years and some of his songs remain on my regular playlists. I was so excited to see the reformation of the Go-Betweens and to see vital new music being produced! Only to be silenced again. My condolences go out to Grant's family and loved ones. His music will surely be missed. | ||
| Doctor Love Unregistered guest |
I can't believe how much this news hurts given that I only discovered Grant and the Go-Betweens a couple of years ago after having heard "In Your Bright Ray" on the radio one day -- wow, what an amazing song, and that is only one of so many! This man shared his heart in his music -- looks like everyone here experienced that in some way. I felt so much joy hearing Grant's tunes even if they were sad. It was a new magical place I could go to from time to time. I was so grateful to have finally stumbled upon it, and that there was so much of it left to discover. I'm still looking forward to doing so, but it will feel very different now knowing that he's gone and that I will never get to see him or the band. Thanks, Grant, for sharing so much of yourself with all of us. Prayers to his family and friends in this time of great loss and grief. | ||
| mpe430 Unregistered guest |
I was lucky enough to catch the Go-Betweens in Chicago in 1988. I was amazed at the amount of people that attended the show-I thought only a handful of people shared in my devotion to my 'Secret band" A huge loss. Ride on, Black Mule... | ||
| Cécile Unregistered guest |
Songs like jewels, that have made my world shine for twenty years. Such beautiful memories... A nice dedication on the sleeve of one of my Gobs vinyls, a few words and smiles exchanged after a gig. From Paris to you, Grant. This is a tragic loss. My deepest sympathy to Grant's family, Robert and to all his friends | ||
| fanofgrant Unregistered guest |
A real hero -- someone whose songs got me writing my own, playing in bands, etc. You're still here, Grant! | ||
| Tim Barrow Unregistered guest |
Just stunned when I saw Grant's obituary in this morning's paper on my way to work in London, having been out of circulation at the weekend. I remember such a shock when I saw Jeff Buckley's obituary in similar circumstances several years ago; but this is far, far worse..... "At night I haunt the Boulevard to the songs of Sacha" Good bye and thanks...... | ||
| oluckyman Unregistered guest |
So sad. But what a legacy. I lived in Brisbane from 1979-81, but left to work in the USA, and discovered the Go-B's in Austin, TX when 16 Lovers Lane came out (in 1989 I think). I love everything they did, and had the great good fortune to see them at Slim's in San Francisco last year. One of the best gigs I've ever seen, ending with a killer version of Karen. Thanks for everything Grant. Condolences to everyone who ever knew you, in person or through your music. --Paul | ||
| Not so bright Ray Unregistered guest |
I was only fortunate enough to see the Go Bees once, but even with that small dose of them, you could quickly tell that Grant was a person for whom making music was a source of joy. And he spread that joy to all of us. He was a source of light. You seemed like you were far from an arrogant man, Grant, so you're probably looking down from heaven and smiling shyly, embarrassed by all the fuss, but, we your fans, raise a glass to you. Your music will live always and we will never forget you. | ||
| Heinz Huber Unregistered guest |
Dear Grant, you will live for ever. Go Betweens songs have been around me like good old friends for many years. Time to go - face future - Good bye Say Hello to Jesus. | ||
| graham frederick ashton Member Username: Clasho Post Number: 1 Registered: 05-2006 |
FAREWELL GRANT MCLENNAN! I feel compelled to write some words to farewell one of the greatest songwriter's of our time, Mr Grant Mclennan, who sadly passed away on Saturday. Growing up in Brisbane as a punk rocker in the eighties it wasn't particularly cool to like The Go-Betweens. While they have always been clearly very subversive artists, some of the close-minded punk rock community were quick to write them off as a pop band. I was lucky enough that the second gig that I ever attended was at Brisbane's famous Cloudland Ballroom and the bill was Madness, The Go-Betweens and The Sports. Eclectic as fuck, but truly life affirming. I watched the first phase of the band and their solo careers with more than a passing interest, but it was the year 2000 reformation album "Friends Of Rachel Worth" that started to change me to a crazed fan devouring the back catalogue with obsessive tendencies. The best news of all came for me when I had the opportunity to work very closely with The Go-Betweens on their latest album "Oceans Apart" and DVD "That Striped Sunlight Sound". This experience has been truly one of the most satisfying in my life as a music fan and the opportunity to become mates with this amazing band is an absolute honour. I feel very lucky that I called Grant only days before his death to tell him the news that we would no longer be working together. This call gave me the opportunity to tell him personally how special it has been to work together and to call him a friend. Farewell Grant Mclennan. You will be missed, more than you would ever know. | ||
| You won't find it again... Unregistered guest |
In 1996 I saw Grant McLennan for the first time, at The Go-Betweens first reunion show at the Zoo in Brisbane on an impossibly hot night, we stepped outside into the Brisbane night after the show knowing I’d never see a better gig in my life. I have not. Summer just past I saw what was to be their last show The Story of The Go-Betweens at the Sydney festival. In between I saw them countless times including do a month of solo shows at The Press Club in Brisbane. Today all I feel is blessed to have had those moments. My lasting memory will be Grant standing to the left of Robert smiling; it was like this at every show. | ||
| richard watter Unregistered guest |
Two days later and GW is still very much in my thoughts. I love the first two Go-Bets albums and Grant's songs and bass on 'em are bloody brilliant. At the time also he made me that bit happier to be a Queenslander when there was nothing else going for the place. So - and by all accounts it was a life well lived - bravo, GW. | ||
| James Unregistered guest |
This is my second post, please forgive me for hogging this space. I just realised that Grant's adherence to simplicity and honesty is the reason why he was such a great songwriter. Some memories include: Playing 'Streets of Your Town' in a pub with my friend Paul and being told that it was a great great song by some local musos who thought we had written it. Sinking a bottle of red wine and singing 'Simone and Perry' in front of a British Llama from Manchester. Seeing Grant solo in Leeds and him saying 'I know you know what this means' to Paul before playing 'Right Here'. Cheers and Love to the fantastic Grant. Going to miss you a lot. James | ||
| SJ Unregistered guest |
So very very sad when I read this news today...I knew about the Go-Between's since the early 80s but only with Horsebreaker Star was I really introduced to Grant's genius. Man, that beautiful record got me through so much, as did Jack Frost. So sad | ||
| Trevor R Unregistered guest |
When I was 15 yrs old I heard the Go Betweens for the first time, when I was 16 they split up and i couldn't understand. But it wasn't long before Watershed and a whole load of new melodies. A few years later I had an interview for a job in a record shop. During the interview I talked about the Go Betweens and other great music and what it did for me. I got the job (the store manager was another GB fan), and have been lucky enough to hear a lot of great music over the years, much of which doesn't get the exposure it deserves. Grant and Robert have made some of the most important music of my lifetime, with an ability to create beautiful, poignant melodies time and again. Monday is usually an exciting day at work, with the new music that is released in our shop. But today wasn't. It just wasn't a happy day for me. I'm having trouble with this. I'm just having trouble. Like with Peel, it just seems so wrong. I'm so pleased we've had 3 more great albums over recent years from this wonderful band. Thoughts are with Grant's family and Robert. Trevor Yorkshire, England | ||
| Harald, Austria Unregistered guest |
..just had to stare into space for a while after I read that curious news.. no words can heal now, but all my compassion and my truly heartfelt thoughts to the family and friends Grant left behind in this unfair world can't believe this.. don't wanna believe this... you attended my life for such a long time, and now you're gone? why so suddenly?? why so quiet?? at least, please keep up songwriting, wherever you are right now.. your friend | ||
| tita Unregistered guest |
no. :-( but I guess so. I miss you already and I've seen you maybe 8 times in my life and never even met you (well you signed "Tallulah" for me if that counts?). as everyone else has said, THANK YOU. and we'll all miss you. and we're all enriched by your words and songs. and thank you, thank you, thank you. and goodbye. for now. xoxo | ||
| joe labrecque Unregistered guest |
I came to the Go-Betweens only a couple of years ago, after picking up Tallulah because of a distant memory of 'Hope Then Strife.' My wife and I quickly became obsessed, and I'm sure all of you here know exactly what I mean . 'Cattle and Cane' (to heap more praise on an already canonized song) is, hands-down, one of the most transcendent things ever recorded. That hypnotic, circular guitar riff, the wordless vocal that comes in after the chorus, the way the guitars bounce off each other...the song just keeps piling beauty upon beauty. It's only weakness is that it ends about three hours too soon. Songwriters rarely reach those heights, and McLennan did it repeatedly. If he'd stopped after 'Cattle and Cane' and 'Bye Bye Pride,' he would have already earned his place in the pantheon. Thank you, Grant McLennan. (And thank you, Mr. Forster, for being the man's ideal collaborator and counterpart.) Best wishes to family and friends, Joe and Rachel | ||
| cwperry Unregistered guest |
I saw about 20 concerts last year, and the greatest moment of any of them was McLennan's performance of "Cattle and Cane" that closed the Go-Betweens' Chicago show in the month of June. It was one of the most intimate and compelling concert moments I've ever experienced, even more so than the solo McLennan show I saw following the release of the wonderful Horsebreaker Star, and I'm glad to have witnessed it. | ||
| Jude Unregistered guest |
First band I ever saw live supporting Aztec Camera when I was 15. Sitting here with tears in my eyes. | ||
| Simon Nicol Unregistered guest |
Grant will be sadly missed, even across the ditch in New Zealand, his and the bands music will never be forgotten and will continue to influence, my condolences to all of Grant's family, friends and band mates. | ||
| sb tobias Member Username: Blue_spark Post Number: 1 Registered: 06-2005 |
like so many others, this sad news has hit me hard. the go-betweens have been a constant in my musical life for over 20 years. grant's solo albums were the soundtrack to many a sunday morning. i could always put on "horsebreaker star" and hear a lyric i'd never noticed before...such beautiful poetry. i am grateful to have so many of his songs to listen to forever, but am heartbroken that his voice was silenced so early. heartfelt condolences to grant's family and friends, and to everyone else who feels the void left after his passing. | ||
| michael dunne Unregistered guest |
the following is much as i wrote to a mate yesterday before finding your site, you might like to use some of it: gone between amid the gold mine rubble (in tassie's mining tragedy) and the failure of (richard) carleton’s heart, came the news that we lost a go-between. considering that I’ve never known almost anything about the band members, (other than what I listened to in their music, that they were from brisbane -from a golden era -, that they lived a while in england and that they never had anything like the recognition they deserved) I find myself sad in a way comparable in musical losses only with lennon, hutchence (he was one of me), the three amigos (aka joey, johnny and dee-dee) and james darroch (eastern dark). other musos who have gone were not so close to my life’s windows. if the right tune to play after losing joey was ‘something to believe in’, then for me last night I sang to ‘cattle and cane’. from the first time I heard it, perhaps even more so than when I first heard the triffids ‘wide open road’ and church’s ‘under the milky way’ it was for me automatically timeless. it was always going to hold for me (and has held for me) a mood and feeling that I could relate to and float in as a mist – the imagery that I knew from holidays to queensland and for which at the time, (before actually moving up this way) I yearned, the beautiful production, the feelings the vocals, the richness of perfectly spaced guitar arrangements… only months ago I picked up their greatest hits on cd (from rocking horse in its new location), the first I had played of them since boxing up the vinyl so long ago… grant was the age I will be in a couple of days, as would hutchence have soon been. by comparison I was angry about hutchence – for whether an accident or not, that someone from the same world and age as me should treat his life either so recklessly or senselessly, I took personally. without knowing anything yet about how grant passed away, I just feel really sad… had grant been in crowded house I guess he would have made headline news, but I hope musos rally soon to the memory of he and the band. one of our (northern nsw) tv channels has ‘streets of your town’ as their anthem, so people up here hear it daily, yet I’ve hardly heard a peep about his death on same tele. an ‘alternative’ muso who became a true go-between! lest we forget the messenger… mick | ||
| Thomas McKenna Unregistered guest |
Been a GOB fan since 1983 and have had the privilege of seeing five of their six Dublin shows (sadly you never made it up North). Meeting Grant and Robert backstage at Vicar St in 2000 was something I'll always treasure. I'd interviewed Grant for the first time a month prior to the show on the phone, and I knew that meeting him was going to be special - it was. He was a true gentleman, softly spoken and genuinely interested in what you had to say. Unlike many other of the musicians I've spoken to, he had the courtesy to call you by your first name - the mark of a down to earth and genuine human being. When I got him to sign the printed feature I'd written, he wrote 'Thank you for the beautiful words'. Grant you are the one with the beautiful words and they will accompany me for the rest of my time. Your spirit will remain and love goes on anyway. My thoughts are with your family, friends and fellow Go-Betweens past and present. Farewell fond friend. | ||
| Mark Leydon Member Username: Mark_leydon Post Number: 54 Registered: 05-2005 |
Tonight on ABC local radio in Sydney there will be a special tribute to the music of Grant and The Go-Betweens between 9 and 10pm. Sydney Morning Herald music critic Bernard Zeul will be playing tracks from throughout the band's career. I believe an on-line stream of the show will be available at: http://www.abc.net.au/sydney/ Also, here is a link to Bernard Zeul's excellent tribute piece on Grant from yesterday's Sydney Morning Herald: http://www.smh.com.au/news/music/from-the-cane-fields-songs-of-love-and-loss/200 6/05/07/1146940411087.html | ||
| Robotboy77 Unregistered guest |
Goodbye Grant. | ||
| M. Mark Burgess Member Username: Fortysomething Post Number: 83 Registered: 05-2005 |
My goodness, what an outpouring of love for this man. Did he know? | ||
| Anthony Butler Unregistered guest |
Just a terrible shock when I got the email from Brisbane... now almost two days later it's starting to sink in. Reading all 750 posts in this thread, I start to realize that the wonderful music and joy that Grant brought into my life was something shared around the world. Just as Grant and Robert were getting the acclaim and rewards they so richly deserved for so many years this happens. Life is not fair, but the incredible legacy of Grant and Robert's music makes it slightly more bearable. Australia has lost one of it's truly great creative talents. My thoughts are with Grant's family and of course, Robert and his family. | ||
| steve haddan Member Username: Steve_haddan Post Number: 1 Registered: 05-2006 |
VALE GRANT Only two weeks ago I picked Grant up at his house in Highgate Hill and he and my kids went to the football together at the Gabba. He was a Richmond fan after playing junior footy with the Tigers in Cairns. He told me cricket was his favourite sport. We’d even planned a trip to this year’s second State of Origin match at Suncorp Stadium next month. My kids were so excited whenever they met Grant. “Dad you know a rock star”.”I sure do,” was my reply. He was in very high spirits that night and spoke fondly of his girlfriend Emma and of his natural son, nearly 20 I think, and living on the Sunshine Coast. He too is a musician, with a love of “Norwegian Techno Heavy Metal” said Grant with that wry smile of his. Emma is a budding Brisbane actress who would have fallen head over heels with this terrible romantic, a gentlemen, always stimulating, a peerless human being. Grant and I go back to Queensland University to St Johns College where we were residents in 1976. We first “met” on the football fields of St Lucia in a Freshers v Sophomores football match midway through 1976. We were opposing front rowers in the rugby league match and we decided it was time to spice up the contest. A brief conversation between us as a scrum was forming to the effect that we should put on a show for the spectators led to the two of his reeling out of the scrum, punching and scratching and swearing at one another, and to this day only he and I knew it was a beat up for the delectation of said spectators. From that day forth we were friends. We were both studying arts at Uni and had plenty of time on our hands for all variations of undergraduate skulduggery. There was the time he and I and Harry Thornton (Sigrid’s brother) picked some magic mushrooms out back of Brookfield, made a soup but nothing happened! It was a terrible disappointment! Among many memorable moments some I’m unable to mention, one constant was the GW McLennan Masterclass - film, literature and music. As a raw kid from Toowoomba Grant opened up a whole new world. How lucky I was. Grant had a four star rating for his movies – no stars poor, one star of interest, two good, three very good, four - not to be missed. Whenever he returned to college from an afternoon at his beloved Schonell Theatre with a four star rating for a film, one was first in line at the cinema the very next day. His observations were always acute and spot on. “The Cinema Papers”, a high brow American film magazine, was his bible at the time. He also adorned his room at St Johns and later the Golding Street share house with his wonderful collection of movie posters. Musically, at this time I liked disco music - Grant frowned on this as he did any tawdry artistic pursuit and sought to improve things with lengthy depositions on the merits of Patti Smith, Blondie, Elvis Costello, and Bob Dylan and the Monkees - his tastes ever eclectic. In the summer of 76/77 he left his music collection - one hundred odd albums and stereo - in my safe keeping while he went overseas. Life was grand. I remember he had the Boz Scaggs milestone “Silk Degrees”, an import copy he had 12 months before Boz hit it big out here. Plenty of Springsteen too before anyone had even heard of him. That was always his way. He was a brilliant man, very well read, a poet, very much the gentlemen, who set his artistic standards at the highest level. Those who knew him were inspired by his dedication and integrity. When I bought my own stereo I paid Grant a visit at Damien Nelson’s Toowong Music Centre in Sherwood Road where he worked to supplement both his passion and income in 1978. On his recommendation I added albums by the Paley Brothers, Greg Kihn, Nick Lowe and the Beach Boys “Holland” to my collection. He gave me a copy of the Dashiell Hammett book “The Continental Op” for my 21st birthday. I lay claim too to dragging him to the pro- wrestling at Festival Hall on the odd occasion. We saw Ron Miller and Dory Funk Jr battle a one hour draw for the world championship on one such occasion. He was just as interested in the crowd as he was in the theatricality of the showmen. By this time he and Robert Forster, a fellow Arts student, who might best be described as “intriguing”, had begun their musical journey. Grant had found a soul mate. I visited Grant at his share house in Golding Street, Toowong one day to find him strumming a guitar. He and Robert were going to start a band, with one proviso…a female drummer. A mate and I partnered Tamara Rappaort and Lissa Ross to the 1976 St Margaret’s formal. Lissa would then turn up 12 months later as the Go-Betweens first drummer. He tested a number of options and I saw the trio perform at the Curry Club and the Caxton Street Hall, now the site of an infamous Brisbane girlie bar. He was on his way. His pursuit of artistic greatness was clearly singularly focussed. He and Robert were genuine originals in a field that now sadly lacks those qualities. They stuck to their guns like no other and their body of beautiful music is testament to this. While they never owned villas in the south of France which I suspect Grant would have been more than happy with, the Go-Betweens legacy is there for all to see. Breath taking. Singles followed and Grant and Rob became the closest thing I had ever known to bona fide rock stars. I caught up with them several times down the years, as often as separate lives allowed. I saw them perform at the Tivoli and the Zoo in recent years, had the odd meal with the circle of friends from his University days with whom he was extremely close, we of course extremely proud of what Grant had achieved. He was our most famous friend and the adventures. We’d be having a meal and a beer with someone who the week before had been hobnobbing with Bono in a limo in New York! I suspect there are many who wore their love for Grant as a genuine badge of honour. Often I would find Grant striding the streets of Brisbane en route to a meeting with a record rep or an art show, pick him up, have a quick beer, he’s tell me tales of his latest trip to Germany, the UK or the State, a movie script he was working on, how exciting his life was, then I’d drop him at his destination. Grant never had a driver’s license. Another interesting fact was that at Uni Grant was never a smoker but became quite a heavy one one shortly after forming the band. In his early years he never liked to wear underwear, preferring the tackle to hang loose! Selfishly, there is now a massive void in my life with his passing. Grant gave so much to those who knew him. Beyond the extraordinary body of music, he was an educator who wanted us all to be better human beings and to set our standards professionally and personally, as high as we could and then go for it. I have shed many tears in the last few days, and can only imagine what dear Robert, Emma, Adele, Glenn, his beloved Mum and his family are feeling. My love and best wishes go out to all who feel a part of the Grant McLennan ‘family”. | ||
| Cari Unregistered guest |
I came to know The Go-Betweens via my love of The Church. My first exposure to anything Go-Betweens related was Grant's partnership with Steve Kilbey in Jack Frost... a wonderful work. After hearing this, I instantly felt rather embarrassed with my music-loving self that I had not discovered Grant, and the Go-Betweens' music earlier. I remedied that. Seeing both Jack Frost and the Go-Betweens live were happy experiences for me, not only for the music, but because Grant projected this persona of a kind, loving human being. Today I have been tearing up at work, heartbroken at all of our loss. The words all of you - fans, friends, musicians I love and admire- have been a comfort to me. Grant, if your spirit can hear us, thank you for being who you were. You have made all of our lives better. | ||
| Mike O Unregistered guest |
I have just found out the news of Grant's death and am absolutely gutted. Firstly, my thoughts go out to Grant's family, Robert and all the Go-Betweens band members and fans from over the years. The Go-Betweens have been a big part of my life, starting as a kid when I would listen to my older sisters' LPs. Then as mates of mine took their inspiration from The Go-Betweens to make their own music. Later, when Grant & Robert got back together I had the chance to see them live - something I never thought I'd do. In Adelaide, twice, and some great shows - in Dublin in 2001 and a few times in London, including the Barbican performances. Recently I have taken to presenting a radio show in Manila, where I now live, produced by a local guy who also happens to represent Lomax records here. (I was so surprised to walk into a local record store and find the entire GB's back catalogue!) We were excited about the possibility of the Go-Betweens coming to Manila - maybe, just maybe... It would have been such a big deal for the music lovers here... But my sadness and loss is a small thing in relation to those who knew and loved Grant most. Again, my thoughts are with you... Love goes on. | ||
| MattL Unregistered guest |
Grant really had this great positive energy when he sang and performed. Very infectious. I saw the Go Betweens in West Hollywood at the Troubadour a few months back and it was an amazing and memorable show. Goodbye and Thank You for the great songs. You will be missed. And even though your songs will remain no one will give them the life you gave them. My condolences to his family, his band mates and to everyone who knew him well. | ||
| Rebecca Unregistered guest |
I went to see the Go-Betweens last year when they played at Hepburn Springs. We had booked both dinner and the show and my friends were running late so I made my way out to the bar to look for them and sneak a quick ciggie. Instead I saw Grant sitting at the corner of the bar, contently cupping a glass of frangelico with one hand while the other held a cigarette. I did a little bit of mental juggling about privacy and respect and intrusion but figured if he was sitting at a bar at his own gig he might not be too suprised if someone spoke to him. I approached him with my heart racing, aplogised for interrupting him and asked him if I could tell him a funny story. He smiled, asked my name, introduced himself(!) and said he'd love to hear a funnny story. I relayed a childhood adventure which, as I told him, was in fact more embarrassing than it was funny, and I could feel my cheeks burning hot with the rush of memory. I told him how over half my lifetime ago, when I was just fifteen years old and in love with the Go-Betweens music, my best friend and I had stayed at the same hotel as they had after one of their gigs. We were so in awe of them that we did not want to disturb them and spent the night in our hotel room, innocently enjoying the fact that it was enough to be close to them and we had managed to pull off a night away from home without our parents knowing! The next morning as they were leaving we rushed down the stairs and asked for their autographs. Robert was reading "On The Road" and did not want to be disturbed. Grant and Lindy chatted with us and signed a school book. I finshed my rather slighly stupid breathless account and was astonished to find that not only did Grant remember that day, he remembered the colour of our uniforms too. We then spoke of everything from politics, to boarding school, from surfing to the heat and light of Qld, about other languages we spoke and the places we had lived in. We smoked and drank till I was wobbly, I missed my dinner and my friends by by the time we had finished speaking my life was already changing. Thankyou Grant for your gentle humour, your emotional generosity and your grace. Thanks too for getting me to Qld, onto a board and over my fear of sharks.x | ||
| Stuart: Warrington, England Unregistered guest |
A constant source of pleasure for the last 20 odd years. We were blessed to have discovered our 'Secret Band'. Sincere condolences to his family & friends. Thank you Grant. '... i will miss you' | ||
| john Unregistered guest |
did not ever see you live but have got all your albums rest in peace | ||
| Lawrence Mikkelsen Member Username: Simplythrilledhoney Post Number: 29 Registered: 03-2006 |
I bought my first Go-Betweens album eight years ago. It must have been around this time of year, as I remember it was a chilly autumn Sunday. I’d just met my friend David Poppelwell for the first time at Alleluya on K Road, where’d we’d awkwardly talked about Belle & Sebastian, Hal Hartly films, and skirted around the issue of whether meeting people on band chatrooms was really a good basis for a lasting friendship. (As it turns out, it was.) Afterwards I wandered down to the old Record Exchange where I picked up a tatty copy of the “1978 – 1990” compilation. I’d read an interview with Stuart Murdoch, where he’d extolled the virtues of The Go-Betweens and, despite my reservations (I assumed John Wilsteed to be the lead singer, based on his position in the main photo – you know – that one where they’re all in a doorway – and, with his bleached hair and granny glasses, I was a little worried) Anyway, I paid the requisite $15 and took it home. On first listen the music was maddeningly stange. There were these slick, almost MOR pop songs like “Streets of your Town” and "Bachelor Kisses", but interspersed between them were these weird, angular songs like “Hammer The Hammer” and “The Clarke Sisters”. It took a bit of perseverance to really get into that album, but over the next few months it became a regular companion on my bus rides into the city on those chilly mornings, and something of an obsession. “Streets of your Town”, which usually arrived as the bus was climbing the Harbour Bridge, sounded perfect on those mornings where the air temperature is sharp with chill, and yet the sun shines down on near-cloudless water so it looks like you're suspended above a sea of diamonds. When that little Spanish guitar solo kicked in, I’d feel like getting out of my seat and dancing, like that final scene in “The Last Days of Disco”. A few months later I found cheap second-hand CDs of “16 Lovers Lane” and “Liberty Belle & The Black Diamond Express” at Real Groovy Records. Hearing some of those already much-loved songs in the context of their parent albums made them sound even richer, and I started to get a feel for the differences in Robert and Grant’s songwriting. Generally Roberts were the weird, odd ones, and Grant’s were the more melodic, poppy and poetic ones. I guess Robert’s image and style always appealed a little more to me, but Grant’s songs were the ones I found myself singing along to. I quickly bought up the rest of the bands’ 80s catalogue, and traded and begged to get my hands on as many rarites and b-sides as I could. The Go-Betweens were one of those bands with a small but perfectly formed back catalogue. A band who traded on the quality of their songs, not on any notions of hipster cool or indie cred. A band with a core duo of two men who looked like secondary school teachers, but who could melt your heart with a chord change or a casually tossed lyric like ‘his father’s watch, he left it in the shower’. A band that few of my friends cared that much about. A band I could clutch tightly to my chest and keep to myself for those times when no one else mattered. Since then, of course, there have been three new Go-Betweens albums. Unlike most reformations, each one has been worthy of the name and the legacy. There have been few moments or memories since 1998 that which haven’t been soundtracked to a Go-Betweens song. And, of course, there was that unforgettable night at the St. James in 2002. I feel so fortunate to have seen Grant and Robert play live, and to have met and talked to Robert afterwards. I only wish I’d met Grant that night too, if only to tell him that “Love Goes On” is the greatest album opener of all time. Now there will be no more Go-Betweens albums, because Grant McLennan died in his sleep three days ago. I remember what I was doing and where I was the day Kurt Cobain died and the day Elliott Smith died. But those two men were troubled souls whose time on earth was always going to be cut. Nothing compares to this. Honestly, I still can’t really believe it. Grant wrote some of my favourite lyrics of all time. “Dusty In Here”, “Magic In Here”, “Cattle and Cane”, “Bye Bye Pride”… He wrote about Australia, and being Austrailian, in a way very few have ever matched. Farewell Grant McLennan. | ||
| Thomas Bond Unregistered guest |
Not aware of the sad news, I drove to work listening to McLennan's solo album "In Your Bright Ray" on Monday, May 8 - waiting in my email box was the death announcement from Yep Roc, the Go-Betweens American record label. 48 is too young to die, and I say that as someone in his 40s. Three original members of The Ramones, Joe Strummer and now Grant McLennan - all gone at the approximate age of 50. I put McLennan in that illustrious company as a peer and, especially to people my age who grew into adulthood with those bands, the loss is deeply felt. Deepest sympathies to his family, friends and bandmates. Now that it is an (unfortunate) epitaph to their career, "That Striped Sunlight Sound" could not fill the role any better. The DVD/CD is a godsend to those who never had the chance to see the band live and the acoustic song-and-story section is full of love and warmth, exactly what I feel remembering the band. My eight-year-old daughter's favorite song is "Streets of Your Town" (which she calls "Round and Round") and I'll play and sing it with her tonight, as I have many times before, in tribute to Grant McLennan. The love he put into his music and the way that love is felt by his fans will truly go on and on... | ||
| simon finnigan Unregistered guest |
‘it’s funny how someone you’ve never met, manages to stay with you’ regrettably, i never saw him play live ‘you won’t find it again’ but his songs are often in my ears and mind when i see an empty blue sky above trees i think of those songs ‘don’t call me gone’ | ||
| Megan N Unregistered guest |
Our thoughts and prayers go out to all of Grant's family and loved ones,especially Robert, at this time.Grant will remain in our hearts and memories as a wonderful artist and troubador whose words and melodies are intertwined with our own journey. He enriched so many peoples lives and we are thankful for that. | ||
| Tom Hayter Unregistered guest |
I can't remember the first time I heard The Go-Betweens music. I remember as a young child lighting up and singing along every time "Streets of Your Town" came on. My mother and father are both heavily into music, and as a result I grew up listening to bands like The Go-Betweens, Hunters & Collectors and The Black Falcons. The list goes on. I heard the tragic news on Sunday, at my mother's 50th birthday. I had just walked inside, and stood next to Mum. The last song was finishing, and then I heard three notes that I'm sure you're all familiar with, and mum turned straight to me and told me never to forget the moment. Those three notes were the start of "Cattle and Cane". She put her arms around me, and I asked her what was wrong. She cried as she told me. "Grant McLennan died last night". As the song played, we swayed back and forth, tears running down our faces. I was lucky enough to see The Go-Betweens a few times at The Gov here in Adelaide, both with the band, and with just Grant and Robert. And I am so glad that I had the chance after one of those shows to tell Grant how much I loved his music. To him, I was just another fan, but he thanked me with a heartfelt smile across his face, and shook my hand. It is still hard to believe that such a talented and wonderful man could be taken from us all so soon. My thoughts are with Grant's mother and sister, his girlfriend, his son, all the musicians he has worked with, and all his friends and family. You will be missed by many Grant. Rest In Peace. | ||
| David Weigel Unregistered guest |
If Robert, Adele, Glenn, or Grant's family are reading this, I want to extend my condolences and my appreciation. This world is a better place because Grant and his songs were in it. And neither the man nor the songs will ever, ever be forgotten. | ||
| Shaun Unregistered guest |
My condolences to all who knew Grant, friends, family and fans. I am not hugely familiar with the work of the Go Betweens, though I do know that they were pioneers for a whole generation of australian musicians for the overseas market. To think Grant started out in a small central Queensland town, Rockahampton, inspires me greatly. I am from Mackay, just a little north of Rockhampton, and am buoyed by the fact that Grant could do what he did, write the way he wanted to, and be hugely succesful and travel the world coming from a small place. He left any musician from a small town inspired to know you can be successful from a small town. Thank you. | ||
| Glenn Richards Member Username: Gar Post Number: 1 Registered: 05-2006 |
I'm a Melbourne songwriter who got to know a little of Grant, outside of his work, over the days and weeks of The Big Day Out a few years ago. My band along with Dan Kelly and the Alpha Males played Brisbane last weekend it was a delight to see him afterwards at Rik's Bar in the Valley. Everyone was dancing, Dan Luscombe from The Black Eyed Susans/Paul Kelly/Alpha Males was DJ'ing, and a sense of community and risk was stronger than I've felt for years. Grant gave me a hug, some lovely words, told me to keep on being true to it and said goodnight. A couple of days later driving to the Tweed Heads airport we heard the news on Radio National. In Australia there's still a little room for us to imagine how we have been and how we might be. Grant was one of the people who gave himself to this dreaming not because it was just important because it was natural and neccessary. Thanks to him, a great and gentle teacher. G. Richards Augie March | ||
| Tim & Malika Unregistered guest |
Deeply saddened by the passing of a wonderful lyricist; Grant (and Robert) wrote some of the most beautiful heartfelt songs anyone could ever wish to hear. Grant will be greatly missed by the many fans, old and new. Playing the songs will bring back wonderful memories of the gigs and in particular Grant's affable personality. Our condolences to his family, Robert and all his band mates and to everyone who knew him well. | ||
| Peter Azzopardi Member Username: Pete Post Number: 152 Registered: 09-2004 |
Thank heavens for the life and art of Grant McLennan. | ||
| Keith Koenig Unregistered guest |
I wish the best to Grant's family, friends and fans at this time. My thoughts and prayers are with you. Grant's music, whether it was with the Go-Betweens, Jack Frost, solo, etc., meant so very much to me. I became a fan of the Go-Betweens back in 1984 and I didn't know anyone else here in Kansas City who knew who they were at the time. I certainly did my part to pester all of my muso friends until I converted as many as I could to Grant's (and Robert's ) brilliant music. I had the pleasure of seeing the band here in Kansas City back in the late 80's during the 16 LOVER'S LANE tour and it was a fantastic night of music. They turned a crappy little dive in Middle America into the music center of the universe for a couple of hours. I will never forget it. Grant will be sorely missed by his many fans, but I am eternally thankful for the fantastic music he gave us. It will live on and continue to bring joy. God Bless You, Grant............. | ||
| Craig Beaumont Unregistered guest |
I first heard the Go-Betweens three years ago when a friend played me “The Friends of Rachel Worth.” I wondered why I’d had to wait until I was 26 for someone to tell me about the Go-Betweens. A world opened up, like it does when you hear Dylan for the first time, or see your first Bergman movie. I bought all the albums within the space of a month, and the kind people on this board have sent me some of the harder to find material. I’ve been spreading the word in England and New York ever since. Last year I was lucky enough to see the band in Birmingham and in New York, and each show was superb. I feel as though I’ve lost a good friend. Thanks for the songs, for the happiness, and the memories, Grant. | ||
| rod Unregistered guest |
Grant, you got me through my first real heartbreak sometime in 91, then you came alone to the Tas. Uni Bar and played a whole bunch of songs we had never heard until the encore. The songs became ‘Horsebreaker Star’. I am sure your open heart and courage fortified my own and my innocence that I carry with me still today. Thankyou | ||
| Rob Lay Unregistered guest |
I was lucky enough to catch the band at their Metro show last year but regrettably missed their Sydney Festival appearance - I had no idea it would be their last in Sydney. I was too young to have seen them play back in the 80's but I remember putting on the compilation "1979-1990" and discovering the beauty of those songs for the very first time while I was studying for my exams at high school in the UK. Listening to those songs changed my outlook on music completely at a time when grunge and Madchester were clogging up the airwaves. I came to appreciate the artistry and genius behind the music of the Go-Betweens and saw countless bands such as The Auteurs name drop them as a major influence. My first chance to see them live as a band came about 5 or 6 years ago at the CMJ Festival in New York when they played the Bowery Ballroom. I was blown away and I have very fond memories of wandering the streets at 3am after the show with Grant, Adele and my brother looking for a bar to get that one last drink... In more recent years I was lucky enough to spend some time playing with Glenn in his own band here in Sydney and had the privilege of sharing another of those post-gig late nights with Grant in the Century Tavern. He will always remain an inspiration. My thoughts are with Robert, Adele & Glenn (thinking of you mate - no hard feelings) and with all his family & friends. | ||
| John Unregistered guest |
I wrote this on my myspace blog just a few minutes ago. Nothing else I can add. I'm attaching the text if it's not too long. Monday, May 08, 2006 When he sang about angels Current mood: numb Sometimes it seems I can only rouse myself to scrawl something when someone who has meant a lot to me dies. In the last month, a songwriter and a man of God have roused me to some feeble sort of expression, made that much less coherent by the fact that the emotion stirred by the event has not settled within me. A few minutes ago, two days late, I heard the news that Grant McLennan of the Go-Betweens, a band I've mentioned more than once in this space, died in his sleep on Saturday night. I've been a fan of the band's music since the mid-1980s when they were perhaps the only group around to combine post-punk energy with a thoughtful melodicism that stuck with the listener long after the work of far more popular contemporaries has faded into VH1 Where Are They Now land. McLennan's solo work in the 90s during the Go-Betweens' too-long hiatus staked out the tuneful side of the street, and his solo albums meant as much to me as Spring Hill Fair or 16 Lovers Lane ever did, which is saying more than I can express. I greeted the Go-Betweens' reunion a few years ago with joy, and was delighted, though not surprised, to hear their new music sounding every bit as good, or even--gasp--better than G-B Mk I. Listen to, say, Liberty Belle and The Friends of Rachel Worth back-to-back and you'll see what I mean. It's particularly poignant that the band released a dual acoustic live album/DVD just a couple months ago. This is the lyric to the first Go-Betweens song to touch me deeply, Cattle and Cane, from 1983's Before Hollywood album, and a fitting way to remember a great songwriter. [everyone here knows the song already, no need to waste the space] The fact that McLennan, like Nikki Sudden a month earlier, was only five or six years older than I also hits home with a chill, though I know that I, even if I should live fifty years longer than he, will hold his songs in my head and my heart every last one of those days. Further, longer, higher, older, indeed. Good night. | ||
| Sleepycat Unregistered guest |
Grant did a solo show here at the university bar in 1994. Although "Horsebreaker Star" had not been released he played nothing but songs from that album as his set, with a couple of earlier solo songs as an encore. All the time people were yelling out for Go-Betweens songs and covers and he just kept right on sticking to what he was doing. Some fool had the temerity to call out for "American Pie" immediately after Grant had played "What Went Wrong" - an astonishing song to hear for the first time in a setting like that. Then later on Grant said something like "I'm sorry for just playing all this new stuff you may not have heard before, but I just wanted to test out these new songs I've been writing and I hope you like them too" or something like that. He seemed a cool and aloof customer, aware of his audience but above all devoted to his art. I had a brief chat with him after the show. Then next day I was walking through Battery Point and suddenly there was a voice behind me "Hey! Church guy!" (on account of my wearing Church t-shirts - I'm a fan of said band) It was Grant. We walked through Battery Point for a bit and chatted about art and philosophy or something like that. Fast forward to last year and I finally got to see the whole band live at a show at the Theatre Royal here. Really enjoyed it too. I especially remember Grant delivering "Cattle and Cane" in a really unusual style that almost seemed like a takeoff of some of the Christian rock singers you see on TV ads. I'm just spooked. He went out on top of his game and with the band going from strength to strength but no doubt he had hundreds more great songs in him to come. My condolences too to his friends, family, bandmates and fans. Kevin South Hobart, Tasmania, Australia. | ||
| ejival Unregistered guest |
Thank you for the beautiful music Grant. I feel so lucky to have seen you out in LA. I'm regretting not going over to you to say hi when you were sitting at the bar. Thanks again. | ||
| S. McEachern Unregistered guest |
I first heard the Go-Betweens from a cassete tape of "16 Lovers Lane". The tape stayed in my car stereo for six months straight... over and over again. My girlfriend at the time fell in love with it too. Shortly after we picked up everything the Go-Betweens made that we could find in our small little town. What a sound! I've always wondered fifteen years ago why these guys weren't HUGE, and to this day I still wonder. Truly one of the most underrated songwriters of all time... he ranks up there with the best. His work was only getting better and better in recent years and they found a whole new audience... which was well deserved. He seemed such a calm soul, his lyrics displayed true emotion, and rarely do you get chills up and down your spine as you do with Go-Betweens songs. There are only a few REAL singer-songwriters out there and Grant was one of them. He really takes you to the place where the song was conceived and lets you peek in and see what he was going through.... the songs were so human. I must say his death has really affected me, it truly is like losing an old friend. So, thanks for the wonderful memories, thanks for the wonderful songs, thanks for letting us in on your incredible journey throughout life. Grant McLennan is a GIANT. Your words and poems will never be forgotten by those they've touched and may your legacy grow with time. Grant... May you rest in peace and God Bless You. | ||
| David Matheson Member Username: David_matheson Post Number: 102 Registered: 12-2004 |
I'm still trying to come to terms with this. His songs are going around around in my mind. The fantastic gigs I enjoyed so much. The memories of the different times in my life and how Grant's music is part of each phase from my late teens to now my late thirties. In time I will give thanks for the extraordinary gift his music was, but now it's still too numb. There will be a tribute to Grant played on Triple J (Australia) on Saturday at 5:00 p.m. | ||
| Cameron Unregistered guest |
Thankyou for the music Grant, you will be missed. | ||
| gerhard karst Unregistered guest |
reading the newspaper this morning, cant believe what i saw,what a sad song he was singing ,when he died in his sleep,... | ||
| Richard Unregistered guest |
A beautiful songwriter; unpredictable, unusual and absolutely unique. A tragic loss for the music world. So sad to hear Grant talking on the dvd about the future and the great plans he and the band had. You may not be wearing your shades, but we'll need them to hide the tears. Thanks for all the great songs and condolences to family and friends. You'll be sorely missed. | ||
| Stephen Mahoney Unregistered guest |
I moved from Charleville (S.W.Qld)to Brisbane in 1980. A few years later I heard "Cattle and Cane" on 4ZZZ and it immediately struck a chord. Ever since the Go Betweens have been with me. They have been there when I travelled overseas, I could see them live when I moved to Sydney (and of course when I moved back to Brisbane),their music was played at my wedding and in recent years I have enjoyed introducing my daughters to their music. Last year during the Rocking Horse Records in store concert, Grant bent down to my 9 year old daughter (who was wearing one of their shirts)and said "I like your shirt". It made her day. He was just as warm and friendly afterwards when he signed the shirt and had a chat.Now he's gone. Grant, thank you for so much.It might sound trite - but the Go Betweens have provided the soundtrack to my adult life and given all of my family so much joy. At the moment its dark and dusty in here. Stephen, Marta, Monique and Michelle. | ||
| Daniel B, Malmo, Sweden Unregistered guest |
First I would like to express my deep condolences to Grants family and friends. I was really shocked reading the terrible news that Grant has passed away. The music of Go-Betweens has been a musical companion to my life over the last 20 years and it's very hard to imagine that this is it, even though the music lives on. I hade the great pleasure of seeing Go-Betweens once and it was truly fantastic with Grant and Robert taking time to meet up with the fans after the show. You will be sadly missed and thanks for everything! | ||
| David Peters Unregistered guest |
Memories: Standing on a sofa at St Pauls Arts Centre in Oxford 1986 to get a better view of this great band, that my friend Martin had persuaded me to come and see. Tears of happiness welling up when I heard Bye Bye Pride played live again when Grant and Robert got back together. My usually shy and retiring wife Annette rushing us to the front for a better view at every Go Betweens gig we went to, because "Grant is a sweetie". A few of the many very happy memories we have (more than with any other band), tinged with the sad knowledge that they will not be added to. A terrible, untimely loss of a man whos music made my heart sing. Our condolencies to family and friends. | ||
| Gideon Coe Member Username: Gideon_coe Post Number: 1 Registered: 05-2006 |
Such a great songwriter and part of one of the most wonderful bands I've ever known. Love to all of those close to Grant. Someone you knew Is watching you | ||
| budzinski Unregistered guest |
je reste avec en mémoire le magnifique concert a tourcoing il y a qqs mois en france ou sa gentillesse et son talent a marqué les spectateurs français...il nous manque déja beaucoup..... | ||
| thomas pace Member Username: Tcpace Post Number: 1 Registered: 05-2006 |
I discovered the Go-Betweens in college - around the time that they were breaking up. Like most other bands that I fall in love with, I set about collecting every proper album, the solo albums, the Jack Frost project, etc. When Grant finally played a show in Los Angeles, around the time he released his third solo album, I finally got a chance to watch him play. He was gentle and humble and present, and for an L.A. crowd that's no small task. His music and his writing is so personal to me that I feel like I've lost a good friend. I'm sure there are many of us who feel that way. What I take away, first and foremost, is his music and his light. On this very sad sad day, I celebrate Grant's music and his life. I am assembling his greatest moments onto a couple disks and I'll go driving this weekend up the coast. And I'll sing along and I'll listen. And I'll cry. But most of all I will thank Grant with every breath I take. "I tried to tell you I can only say it when were apart About this storm inside of me And how I miss your quiet, quiet heart." -Quiet Heart - 16 Lovers Lane Thanks you Grant. Peace and love. | ||
| Jeannette Unregistered guest |
...and how I miss your quiet, quiet heart... | ||
| cameron bruce Unregistered guest |
I still remember when I first heard the beautiful sounds of "Cattle and Cane" played on radio 3RRR in the early 80's. And I remember seeing them play it on the TV show 'Countdown' - for me a magic and unforgettable moment. Grant wrote great songs and had a wonderful singing voice. He will be sorely missed, as will the Go-Betweens. Condolences to his family and friends. | ||
| TB Unregistered guest |
Look how many lives you touched. We won't forget. | ||
| dg Unregistered guest |
Grant, you will be always in our hearts. "Karen", "Before Hollywood", "16 Lovers Lane", "Bright Yellow Bright Orange" is my life... | ||
| Shoplifter Unregistered guest |
I heard about it by a concert of "Belle and Sebastian". For Grant they played a Song from the Go-Betweens, but at this moment I could not believe it Thanks for the beautiful songs/lyrics and great concerts | ||
| Sebastian Kloss Unregistered guest |
Grant's music, to me, is the sound of Hope. Thank you Grant for leaving all this hope for us in this world. I can think of nothing more precious. | ||
| Stephen C Unregistered guest |
Grant will be greatly missed. Both the light and the shadows in his music have permeated my life for nearly 25 years. Songs such as "Cattle and Cane" and "Dusty In Here" provided great solace when my father passed away in the early 1980s. I am sure I am not alone in drawing comfort from the fact that Grant leaves us with such a magnificent musical legacy. My deepest sympathies to those who knew Grant well and loved him. | ||
| Leith Maddock Unregistered guest |
I have been a Go Betweens fan for nearly 25 years, more than half my life, and its been a privilege!! For me its been part of soundtrack of my life, particular songs take me back in a moment to times I treasure. I treasured seeing them play at The Fly in Freo last year, and offer my thanks to Grant, Robert and the changing team over the years for giving us such great music. In sorrow and gratitude, Leith Maddock | ||
| Jens-Christian Pohl Unregistered guest |
I just heard this terrible news, and must admitt - i am shocked. My heartfelt condolences to his loved ones, especially to his son, but also to his long time friends, like Robert. The music of The Go-Betweens has always been a compagion for such a long time. They accompanied me in the eighties, being a teenager, seeing my first concerts at the "Batschkapp" in Frankfurt / Germany. I remember buying "Spring Hill Fair" 1987 in London, because you couldn't get it at that time in Germany. I remember songs like "Bye bye pride", being my fellow throughout summer bike rides on my first Sony, loving Amandas Oboe part .. I remember time ago, i saw Grant on one of his solo tours, could have been the time of "Horsebreaker Star". He played in Hamburg in the former Knust - a very small club in the heart of the city. He sat there outside on a fence, we, the audience came around and he just greeted everyone himself, I'll never forget this. So here we are, realizing, that nothing we love is here to stay forever. And it always strike at one, in an unprepared moment, shelterless. Farewell Grant, we'll miss you and hear your songs forevermore, you shall not be forgotten and you will live on in our hearts - not only for your music. Jens-Christian Pohl Hamburg, Germany | ||
| Danielle Member Username: Dani Post Number: 1 Registered: 05-2005 |
Grant, I will miss you. They warn you not to meet your heroes as they disappoint but you didn't. I've shared many a pint or coffee in Ric's with you over the years and I will miss never being able to do that again. As a Brisbane girl living in London these past four years, putting on your tracks took me home. Can someone say a prayer for me at the funeral on Friday? | ||
| vanessa Unregistered guest |
Really sad news. Memories of these songs go back a long way, Sydney in the late 80s, and life within those years. Such a shame that there are no more songs to come from such a gifted artist. | ||
| Mike Railton Unregistered guest |
I will remember forever seeing Grant in the 3 piece Go Betweens at Mt Gravatt Teachers College in 1978. They played the same 3 songs over and over again (Karen, Lee Remmick and something else). They have been part of my life ever since and I feel such a deep sense of loss not just because Grant passed away at such a young age but because the magic that he and Rob wove will never be recaptured. My life has been so much richer thanks to you. | ||
| Jim Brierley Unregistered guest |
I can't believe the news. Was just listening to the "That Striped Sunlight Sound" on my MP3 player on the way to work and thinking about how good their next album might be. The Go-Betweens have been part of my life since 1989 when i bought the wonderful singles and B sides collection on vinyl (can't remember the name now). They were my band and i have only ever met one other person who owned any of their music. Makes it harder now as nobody else quite understands how upsetting this is. Bye Grant - i never even came close to meeting you or even seeing you live but i feel like a knew you a bit. | ||
| gai woolrych Unregistered guest |
Grant McLennan. Where do you start? I first 'met' The Go Betweens as a 16 year old at Baroona Hall and it was something that changed my life forever. As many others have wrote, The Go Betweens have been something of a soundtrack of my life growing up in Brisbane. Although I don't think I ever recall a conversation with Grant, there was always a special 'hello' when everyone saw familar faces at 'dances' (as we called them then) and whoever was playing in bands. Actually in some of those early days, there was often more Queensland Police Special Branch and dogs than people! But the music was as sweet as ever, even then. My children, 4 and 3, know The Go Betweens as 'mummy's friends'. And of course wonder why mummy is in tears these last few days. But it's hard to let go. Grant, I don't want to have to say a goodbye, Don't want to wipe the tear from my eyes, I took this chance to write a message, It's just to say I'll miss you. And sometimes we don't come through, Sometimes we just get by. loved you so much. part of my life although you would have never known it. deepest sympathies to all of your family, Emma, Robert and all of your dearest friends. | ||
| Efi Pavlou Unregistered guest |
I'm so so sad by the news of Grant's passing. He was such a brilliant singer and songwriter. I grew up listening to The Go-Betweens for the past 20 years and they have always been part of the soundtrack of my life. I will always remember their wonderful live performance here in Athens some 15 years ago, as well as the time I saw Grant and Robert perform acoustic in a Virgin Megastore in London back in 1994. Since they reformed I always hoped they would play here in Athens again. My deepest condolences to his family, friends and fellow musicians. Thank you for the music Grant, I will always treasure your albums. Efi Athens, Greece | ||
| Graham Twyford Member Username: Graham_twyford Post Number: 40 Registered: 05-2005 |
Still numb at the news. Below is a link through which you can hear Dave Fanning's tribute to Grant McLennan on Irish radio station 2FM yesterday. The tribute begins about 43 minutes into the show. I think latest shows are only archived for 24 hours so apologies to those who read this post late: http://www.rte.ie/rams/radio/latest/rtethedavefanningshow.smil | ||
| Tidy Boy Unregistered guest |
'The Go-Betweens have soundtracked my adult life, each album linked to a particular period, each song evoking an image, a mood, a memory. Grant wrote a fair share of those songs – ‘Right Here’, ‘Streets Of Your Town’, ‘Going Blind’, ‘Bachelor Kisses’, Bye Bye Pride’, ‘Finding You’ and many, many others. They are songs that will remain special to me for the rest of my life.' - to read full post visit http://grahamcatt.blogspot.com Deepest sympathies to family and friends, and to Robert F and the band. | ||
| Nick Small Unregistered guest |
I've made a couple of videos for the Go Betweens (Right Here/Was There Anything...). But I was already a fan. Grant was, as you'd expect from hearing their music, genuine, smart, funny and generous. 16 Lovers Lane was the theme music for a significant summer for me, and like most Go Betweens fans, I find their songs connecting with me in supernaturally deep ways. I've always been baffled that so many of us feel this way, yet they never became REM style huge. Maybe that's why we feel proprietorial about them one minute, and are evangelical about them the next. I've cried a few tears this last few hours reading these messages...we, as fans, all feel the same shock, sorrow and loss. Sympathies therefore to Robert and Grant's other friends and family, who must be inconsolable right now. Thanks Grant, you'll be sorely missed. Nickx | ||
| bengt westin Gävle Unregistered guest |
what can i say but this quiet heart no longer beats. tonight i will listen to his songs and cry. see you in paradise Grant! | ||
| Elaine Unregistered guest |
After I heard the news Sunday morning, I was too numb to write. I thought it would be easier Monday. It wasn't and it will never be. This beautiful man touched so many hearts. My thoughts and love are with Grant's family and friends, Robert and his family and those of us who knew and loved him through his music. | ||
| brendon0108 Unregistered guest |
when i first heard tallulah i instantly fell in love with the go betweens. then i saw them live 1987 i think at the caringbah inn , sydney . what beautiful music .i was actually in brisbane on the weekend and was thinking about the go betweens , then to hear the awful news on sunday hight was such a shock. Grant , you made my life more enjoyable simply by doing what you enjoyed | ||
| Chris McKenna Member Username: Maccattack Post Number: 4 Registered: 05-2005 |
I posted a short message on Sunday night just after I heard the news. It was a simple ‘cant believe it’ message. I couldn’t stop thinking about it all day yesterday as I went about my business and feel compelled to write some more about this great man. No I never knew him personally but like so many others here The Go-Betweens have been a part of my life for so much of it and a big part too. Its hard to remember exactly when The Go-Bees came into my life but I’m sure it helped shape it in a big way. I grew up in the emotionally desolate outer western suburbs of Sydney where flannelette shirts and ugg boots were considered fashion and if you weren’t stealing your dads Tooheys (if you had a dad) by the age of 10 you were considered gay. Well you know what I mean. In my early teens my favourite band in the whole wide world was KISS. I thought they were the best band eva. How wrong you can be. Then one day my sisters boyfriend bought here a new stereo system for her birthday. I’d only ever heard music in mono. That system was a revelation to me. The first thing I heard on it was the song US Forces on Midnight Oil’s latest album 10-1. From that moment on my life changed in a big big way. To cut to the chase, hearing the Oils in stereo accelerated my hunger for new and interesting music which led me to JJJ radio. Where a whole new world opened up for me. I discovered so much wonderfully diverse music through that station and the Go Betweens were one of them. My friends never liked the music I would listen to so I would spend hours alone in my bedroom listening to my records. One of my favourites was a 45 I had bought called Spring Rain. I could never have articulated it back then but the wonderfully evocative melodies and rhythms of that song would send me on my own musical odyssey that continues to this day. I know that Grant didn’t write Spring Rain(at least I don’t think so) but that single set in motion my enduring love of all things Go-Betweens. To this day despite my large record and CD collection I have 2 favourite bands. The Oils and The Go-Bee’s. Midnight Oils music made me want to be a drummer. Which I did become for many years. Go-Betweens music made me want to play guitar and write songs. Which I’m doing now. Ive been writing for years now and its only now after hearing of Grants death that I realize that he lives inside many of my songs. This has hit me like a tonne of bricks. I can hear his influence throughout much of my stuff and its more than a little unsettling. Grants style was always melancholic with a pound of optimism thrown in. Unconsciously I think that’s what I have tried to do in my music. Now Im just a dude who records his ideas when the kids are asleep. That’s about as far as it goes. I’m not claiming to be any more than that. But it does make me wonder just how far the Go-Betweens influence stretches. A few famous bands have sited them as an influence but I wonder how many others have unconsously fell under the wonderous spell of these two great songwriters. Surely any songwriter who has heard them would admit their greatness. Which inevitably leads me to despair at the state of the music industry in general. How the Go-Betweens aren’t as famous as the Beatles or perhaps the Smiths is to the shame of the record industry. You had two chances to latch onto and elevate this great band to its deserved status and you failed. Shame on you. There is a place for Brittany and her ilk. My kids love that stuff. But they also love The Go-Betweens. Tallulah was played on high rotation on our holiday in France a few years ago. The ‘Friends’ album became an instant hit in our home. Although all the song titles were changed by our 3 year old. Heart and Home is now called ‘Bup bup bah’. In your Bright Ray is a regular in the car also. The kids have their own way of ending ‘One plus One’. They sing ‘is twooooo’ at the end. After reading the comments from people who knew him I imagine he would have got a kick out of that. I sat up on Sunday night reading the posts from fans and friends before going to bed. I could barely sleep. When my wife returned from the gym in the morning in her normally breezy way, waking the house with her ‘Bonjour!’ I told her the news. The whole house became very sad. I wandered down stairs to make the breakfast and sitting on top of the pile of CDs was Oceans Apart. We bought it twice. The second one has a bonus live disc with a wonderful version of Bye Bye Pride on it. I put it on. My wife came down stairs and started crying. She asked me to turn it off. ‘Its too soon’ she said. Tears filled my eyes too. ‘It’s like losing a friend isn’t it’ I never thought I would ever cry over somebody I never knew, but when I returned home after dropping everyone to school and work I put the CD back on and I just started bawling. Not like me at all. I really do feel like Ive lost a close friend. The last time I felt upset about a stranger like that was after the Bali bombings. That incident lead me to write a tune and as an amateur songwriter and dreamer I often imagine producing an album with various singers singing my songs. You can guess who I would have picked for this one. Its all about how the people left behind must feel after the sudden loss of their loved ones. Kind of how im feeling now. Thank you Grant for giving us such wonderful music. Thank you for making my kids smile. Thanks for being a true artist. You will always be a part of our home. | ||
| Brian Harris Unregistered guest |
A Song for Grant Everything you love comes to an end A friend you've never met is still a friend I know that the door is open wide Over on the planet's other side I recall a schoolboy coming home Sitting in his parents' house alone He puts the silver music centre on Listens to a Grant McLennan song Tries to play along on his guitar Never really getting very far Dazzled by the rhythm and the rhyme He memorizes every single line Everything you love comes to an end A friend you've never met is still a friend I know that the door is open wide Over on the planet's other side Memory weighs heavy on my mind I can't believe I've wasted so much time I think about the work I've left undone I'm hearing all the melodies unsung And if I had the money for the flight I would fly to Brisbane tonight For I believe the door is open wide Over on the planet's other side I heard the door is always open wide Over on the planet's other side Thank you Grant. The world is a harsher place without you. | ||
| mike jaspers Member Username: Mikej Post Number: 1 Registered: 05-2006 |
Grant, your music has been a constant soundtrack to my life, from NZ to London, to Sydney, you and Robert have thrilled me, moved me. I can't look at cane without thinking of you, humming that eternal song. Never big sadly, but always big in my heart. | ||
| karl Unregistered guest |
because of my job I had the opportunity to met grant and robert a couple of times. speaking to them was never just an interview but always an inspiring, funny and intelligent talk with a lot of interest coming from the band. (I'm the guy who gave you robert the cd of the vienna-show from the mid8s in the u4-club last year in ebensee while you listend to some cds I played to you) the music of the go-betweens came in to my life in 84 or 85 and never left it ever since. not even in the 9s and I can't image it ever will. no way. karl, very sad. (vienna, austria) | ||
| Travis Fickle, Dublin, Ireland Unregistered guest |
A friend called and told me the news on Sunday morning. Devastatingly sad news. Spent the day listening to all my fave Grant songs over and over. I had only just bought the 'striped sunlight sound' dvd a few days before and was enjoying rekindling my love of this truly great band. My sincere sympathy to Grants family and friends. | ||
| Dusty Member Username: Dusty Post Number: 28 Registered: 05-2005 |
When I got up this morning, my 3-yr old daughter wanted to dance so we put on 'Simone & Perry' and rocked out, then did a slow step to 'Ice in Heaven'. | ||
| Stephen, an Irish bloke in Berlin Unregistered guest |
I've been reading most of the entries on this message board for the last couple of days, couldn't bring myself to contribute until now, I felt too low. But something that Grant always knew - and that he taught me through his songs - is that where there is darkness and doubt, there is always light and hope too. My fondest memory of the Go-Betweens: the first time I saw them live was at the Mean Fiddler in Dublin in 1997. They only played three European cities on that mini-tour, as far as I remember - Paris, London and Dublin. It was the first, kind of "unofficial" reunion tour. Anyway, just as we were going into the gig I realised that I'd lost my ticket - aaaagh!! Couldn't believe it, ran around like a headless chicken, re-tracing my steps etc. Of course it was completely sold out (two nights were sold out). Met Donal Dineen (a brilliant Irish radio DJ) on the stairs, and basically assaulted him "Donal! Donal! I have to get in! I lost my ticket! HELP!" He had to rush off and do his show, he had only caught the first song or two. Couldn't help me out - but no hard feelings Donal, I would have been scared of me too! ;) SO, I was reduced to pleading with the lady at the ticket booth. She tried looking up my booking on the computer under my name etc. no joy. Eventually she let me pay the admission fee (a mere 10 pounds at the time) and go in, god bless her. Shuffled my way towards the front and found my friend who had got in on time. Witnessed an incredible gig. The crowning moment was about 20 minutes before the end when Robert introduced the band, finishing off with this: "And last but not least, the man who wrote 'Bachelor Kisses'!" (huge sustained cheering and applause), "the man who wrote 'Cattle and Cane'" (again, deafening roars), "the man who wrote 'Streets of your Town'!" At this stage, Grant was trying to fight back tears, not very successfully. I looked around me and everyone was grinning and shouting and applauding like lunatics. I also noticed that there were so many musicians/songwriters at the gig - the modest likes of me and my mate, some other guys from Limerick that I knew were in a band, Stephen Ryan from Stars of Heaven/Revenants, the guys from Whipping Boy... It was unreal, we just wouldn't stop cheering and clapping. And it was so thoroughly deserved. I like to think that our wild enthusiasm played a little part in encouraging Robert and Grant to record together again, but that's probably vanity... In any case, it was the most uplifting moment I've ever experienced in many years of attending live gigs. Grant - thanks for all the light and hope that you gave us. You'll never be forgotten, and your songs will always be a source of joy, solace and inspiration for me and countless others. | ||
| Peter Czialla Unregistered guest |
Thank you Grant, for your unique talent, the wonderful music you gave us and some unforgettable concerts. We will miss you! Peter Wuppertal | ||
| Ulla und Norbert Unregistered guest |
We are so sad - seems like a friend has gone forever. But his music and the music of the Go-Betweens will stay forever. Thank you for that. Ulla and Norbert | ||
| Mark Ludlow Unregistered guest |
Very sad news about the death of Grant McLennan. Like for the many people who have posted their kind words, The Go-Betweens provided the soundtrack to my life especially when living away from Brisbane and overseas. For me, as I'm sure it was for others, their music was always about light and hope. They were never afraid to be "arty" - to write in an open and honest way about relationships and life - when most Australian bands would do anything to avoid singing about their emotions. While I followed the solo careers of Robert and Grant, the magic was always greatest when they worked together. Grant's melodic pop and brutal honesty about love (Apology Accepted, Love Goes On,The Devil's Eye, The Statue come to mind) was the perfect counter-balance to Robert's eccentric take on life. The fact there will never be another Go-Betweens album and that Grant died so young, with so much more to offer, is very sad. Grant's sense of melody and his eternal quest to write the perfect pop song will be sorely missed. I spoke to Grant a number of times over the years after gigs in Brisbane and Canberra - and around various bars in the Valley. I also interviewed him in the mid-1990s after he returned to Brisbane. He was always approachable and polite, a true gentleman. The last gig I saw, their triumphant Tivoli gig in August last year, which was recorded for their DVD, was the best I had ever heard them play. RIP Grant. | ||
| vps Unregistered guest |
Thank you for bringing so much beauty and joy into this world. | ||
| Sophie Mayerhoeffer Unregistered guest |
We learned the news by text message and it took so long to sink in. The Go-Betweens are one of those bands who change one's life so profundly, it's only years later that one can ackowledge some decisions were made and some paths followed because of a lyric, a melody, a song. For that, taking my life to places I'd never have dreamed of and being the soundtrack to my ups and downs, thank you. My heart is going to all of Grant's family and friends. Please have courage. Sophie M. ...N'oubliez pas les Go-Betweens... | ||
| Barbara Vesey Unregistered guest |
So sad. I've been a fan since my then-boyfriend introduced me to their fabulous music back in 1988. They have helped me a lot and their music will always be a source of joy and solace to me. I feel deeply sad for his family and friends and hope they find their way through this shock. | ||
| JAPHYRIDER_logged_out Unregistered guest |
Shit, I'm crying now. Grant, the world is truly a better place for you having been in it.... I've seen thousands of bands, and thousands of gigs, and my favourite gig of all time is you and Robert solo at the Botanique in Brussels, years ago now. My first exposure. It completely blew me away. Five times since then, each uniqely brilliant. I was lucky enough to meet you and spend an hour or so in your company. You really are one of the good guys. Your brilliant songs really touched me and every one of the friends that I introduced to the Joy of the GB's. Love and strength to your family and Robert. So sad... | ||
| MW Unregistered guest |
With love to you, Grant and with deepest sympathy for your family and friends. This is no age to go. Thank you for the songs. I was lucky enough to see you and Robert three times since you got back together. Shepherd's Bush back on your first tour was one of the best things I've seen. A true loss but at least we've got many good things you've left behind to make us smile. | ||
| Paul Clissold Unregistered guest |
I heard 'Hammer The Hammer' and bought 'Send Me A Lullaby' the next day, all that time ago and I have never stopped listening to everthing 'Gobie' since. Grant - I thank you for contributing so much for so long (along with Robert and all the members). Your music has been bottled forever. My sympathy to family and friends -Paul (Geelong) | ||
| Loïc Pardieu Unregistered guest |
Hello to every fan of Grant and the Go-betweens all over the world, I was a french fan of Grant McLennan and the Go-Betweens, espacially their albums "In your bright ray" (Grant solo) and "16 lovers lane". I am very sad for every lover of this wonderful music and for friends and relatives of Grant. I think about you now and i will always remember what he did alone or with the magical Go-Betweens. I hope his songs will still shine on everyone who wrote in this message board and people who liked him. | ||
| James Unregistered guest |
Never know what to say.So many are saying it, we are all feeling it.It's just too sad. My sympathies -another Glaswegian in mourning | ||
| Reinier Hollaardt Unregistered guest |
What can you say. When I received the announcement from this website by email I could not believe it. It"s now three days later and I am still in shock. All my thoughts for his family and loved ones. I can"t imagine how Robert must feel now. All my thoughts for him too. The last time I saw Grant it was in Amsterdam last year. The gig was in Paradiso. I remember Robert telling during the concert that there was a good atmosphere in the room. And that was right. The world of the Go Betweens is a fine place to be in. And Grant, thank you for sharing this with me. In August I am going to Australia for a year or so. We sold our house in Holland,given up our jobs because we have this dream. And we want(ed) to see Brisbane. We still going to. Now even more. Grant, I saw you standing in the doorway at Paradiso last year. You were wearing a white cap.You looked very happy and open. That picture is still in my mind. It will last there forever. Reinier www.hoorspelen.web-log.nl the Netherlands | ||
| fiona Member Username: Fiona Post Number: 1 Registered: 05-2006 |
I've never felt like this over someone I don't actually know, I guess that's because we all felt we knew him through his songs. I'm heartened that so many hundreds of people feel the same. Can't believe we'll never see his magic again and so glad we made the extra trip to Basel in October, one gig in the tour just hadn't been enough. Sending love and affection to Robert, all Grant's family and his many, many friends x x x | ||
| Peter Simonson Unregistered guest |
After hearing the news late yesterday afternoon I went home and played Dusty in Here. I fell in love listening to the go betweens in 1989 and something more celebratory seems in order now. My sympathy to Grtant's family and friends. | ||
| richard g Unregistered guest |
your songs will last forever r.i.p. | ||
| Cam Unregistered guest |
To GW's family, Robert and friends, sincere condolence. I've felt a genuine sorrow since I heard, but I also have to be grateful for how much Grant gave us all. We won't find it again - how could we? For me, The Go-Betweens are the greatest songwriters Australia's ever produced. They're songs that have soundtracked my life, and will continue to until I die. Thanks for all of them. Rest in peace. Cam, Edinburgh | ||
| Adrian Robinson Unregistered guest |
Breathing the night air in a run down Sydney terrace not too far from Darlinghurst, reading these comments, talking to friends in far off places, listening to 'Bye Bye Pride' and thinking about the many times that I was fortunate enough to see the Go-Betweens live and the many hours spent listening to their wonderful songs...memories come and go..to be twenty years old, living in a boring Adelaide suburb and discovering 'Before Hollywood' for the first time...living in a foreign country playing an old cassette full of classic songs (Triffids,Patti Smith,Talking Heads and of course the Go Betweens) dreaming of home...the beautiful narrative prose of 'River of Money'...the shimmering sunny melody of 'Streets of your Town'...I never met Grant McLennan or any other members of the Go-Betweens but with the news of Grant's passing I wish I had...gone but not forgotten... | ||
| Jem Bowden Unregistered guest |
I have been stunned. Grant, I will miss you (I am already) very much. Your music has been a close companion to me, through bad and through celebratory times. In recent days I've cried a lot. You touched me so much with your best-of-human nature, and inspired me hugely with your warm openness, and I didn't even know you. In 1995 I saw you play in Leeds and you said "this song was written by one of the greatest songwriters in the world today" and then played Clouds, by Robert. An incredibly touching moment. My thoughts go out to all those who actually had the privelege to know you. Jem | ||
| Glaswegian fan Unregistered guest |
How privileged are we that we knew/ saw/ heard and connected with Grant? I love that everyone posting here ‘gets it’, not only do you feel the depth of loss but you can understand the gratitude that I feel right now. | ||
| Frank Unregistered guest |
Hello, I´m from Germany and never been in Australia, but for me the Go-Betweens (together with bands like The Church, Died Pretty and the Bands on the New Zealand Flying Nun Label) produced these wonderfull pop songs, which possibly only can be created in Down Under. And always if i played songs from the Go-Betweens to other people, we asked ourself why are theses songs not played more often in our radio stations. For me there was always a certain tension between the voices of Grant McLennan and Robert Forster which creates this special moments in Go-Between songs. Grant was responsible for the sunshine, Robert for the fresh breeze. I saw the Go-Betweens three times after their reunion and it was always a special moment for me. I hope that the other band members will still make music but the magic of the Go-Betweens died last saturday. I will miss him. Frank | ||
| carl allen Member Username: Carl Post Number: 5 Registered: 07-2005 |
I read the sad news on Sunday and I still can not believe it. Grant's songs have been with since the 1980's and will stay with me forever. I had the pleasure of meeting several times and he was always a pleasure and a gentleman. I'll never forget his generosity (or was it arm twisting?) in inviting me & my wife over to see the group in Barcelona and started a trend of us seeing the group in European cities. Very glad that I saw them in Valencia on the last tour and told Grant how much I loved the new song (satellite). I will miss him and my thoughts are with his family and friends. Carl, Colchester, UK. | ||
| Darragh Byrne Member Username: Darragh32 Post Number: 1 Registered: 05-2006 |
My favorite band of all time has lost a beautiful soul. Still in shock. Finally got to see them a couple of years ago in the Barbican and spent the whole gig crying I was so happy . Crying the same bittersweet tears today. "Whats buried? Something to do when people are dead?" All my regards to family,friends and band members. | ||
| Veronika Johnson Member Username: Veronikaj Post Number: 1 Registered: 05-2006 |
I have loved the Go-Betweens since the late 80s thanks to my good friend Paul Battenbough, we used to go all over London to small venues to see Grant and Robert. Grant has always been my favourite, I'm a fan of his solo work too. How can I watch That Striped Sunlight Sound now? I'm really, really glad they decided to make that DVD, as to me it shows them not only at their best (acoustically) but also in a very natural environment, chatting away like the two friends they have obviously always been. I can'#t believe I left it too late to get tickets last time they were in London. My heart goes out to Grant's partner, family, friends and all of the others around the world who will miss him. I'm keeping you right here........ | ||
| vie Unregistered guest |
dear grant, this stunning and wonderful music you have created will live on forever! that`s for sure. bye,vie | ||
| Augustus Floyd Unregistered guest |
My deepest condolences to the family and friends of Grant McLennan, he will be sorely missed by so many musicians and music lovers. Along with Robert, Grant inspired, uplifted, overwhelmed and enlightened me with the most beautiful words and music. RIP Grant, and thank you for sharing your gift with us all. Augustus Floyd, High Wycombe, UK | ||
| psycho Unregistered guest |
Grant, you were not supposed to do this. You were supposed to continue to create beautiful, meaningful music & enrich the lives of those that knew you for a long time to come. We are poorer that you have left us; we are enriched beyond imagination for having known you. My best friend rang me from London last night to tell me the tragic news. Of course I initially thought it was a wind up. [I had recruited him to the GBs fanclub last year when I got him to go with me to Shepherds Bush Empire gig in May. -he still talks about it!] My heartflet condolences to Grants family and friends and all devotees. God Bless you and help you through this terrible time. Mark, Cork, Ireland | ||
| Jasper Brown Unregistered guest |
I was shocked and sad to hear about Grant’s untimely passing. I got to know about the Go-Betweens’ music through Sleater-Kinney, when Janet, Corin and Carrie and played on The Friends of Rachel Worth album. I was lucky enough to see the Go-Betweens play at the Tivoli in Brisbane, as well as seeing Grant and Robert play a wonderful acoustic show in the basement of Brisbane’s Rocking Horse Records to launch the Oceans Apart LP. My deepest sympathies go to Grant’s family, friends and bandmates. Jasper – Highgate Hill, Brisbane. | ||
| Nigel Sutton. Unregistered guest |
I remember hearing this haunting melody with a strange time signature coming out of a transistor radio which was playing in a factory I was working in at the time.The DJ announced the song was entitled 'Cattle And Cane' by a band from Australia called The Go Betweens.I was immediately hooked and have remained captivated by Grant and Robert's songs ever since. Forty Eight Years Young......You were someone who gave so much and still had so much to give. Thankyou Grant....I'll never stop listening. My love and thoughts go out to your family,friends and especially Robert,Adele and Glenn. X | ||
| Brendan Maher Unregistered guest |
So shocked to hear of Grant's passing. I had the good fortune to see the band perform at the Astoria in London in 1988 when they were just releasing '16 Lover's Lane'. They started off with 'Bye Bye Pride.' I can remember the emotional rush of that moment and have it in my heart always. It reminds me of what music can do. Love and respect to you, Grant McLennan. | ||
| Leslie B, Boston Unregistered guest |
Grant's music with the Go-Betweens and on his solo records was so glorious, so evocative of warm and conflicted feelings, of places that had wrought iron fences and thick undergrowth, of sunny afternoons and open fields. The creations he made alone and with his musical partners were transporting -- in our heads we could be so many places other than the rooms we were sitting in when listening. I only saw him once, at the Go-Between's reunion show in 2000 in NYC (maybe their first show on the tour?). At one point he was standing next to me in the balcony. He seemed so friendly. Naturally I was awestruck and tongue-tied (isn't that always the way) and didn't say 'thank you'. I send an open heart to Robert and to Grant's family and friends. Fans like me will be taking these days and weeks -- the rest of our lives, really -- to continue to drink in the jangly and gorgeous music. To other fans I say: when you've got the chance, TAKE the opportunity to tell the artists that you admire that their music means so much to you! | ||
| Joe Merklee Unregistered guest |
Our thoughts and prayers are with Grant's family and friends.At a time when there is so much garbage spewing out the airwaves, it is a crying shame to lose someone as thoughtful and articulate as Grant McLennan.My band had the good fortune to open up for the Go-Betweens back in 1989 and that night will always be special to me.No one in the world knew who we were,yet Grant and Robert were very engaging and made us feel welcome.I'll never forget their kindness.A magnificent songwriter and I suspect,an even better person. | ||
| hugh Unregistered guest |
Very saddened to hear this news. A great songwriter, solo and in a very great band. Such fine songs - and it was worth the price of admission for 'Cattle and Cane' alone, never mind so many others. What, 23 years or so of listening enriched for me. Evidently a great and kind man, too. Condolences to all he loved and who love him. | ||
| Mark Unregistered guest |
Thankyou Grant Mclennan for writing so many wonderful pop songs. When I saw you and Robert play an acoustic set at Camden Jazz Cafe there really was 'magic' in here. The world of music is truly a far emptier place without the sound of your guitar strumming away. Rest in peace, Mark. | ||
| Mark Murphy Member Username: Murph Post Number: 7 Registered: 05-2005 |
It's funny, feeling so emotional about someone I don't really know - or do I? I grew up with Grant, I listened as he poured his heart out through his music, I saw him on stage as a young man when I too was a young man and again as a middle aged bloke now that I too am a middle aged bloke. Grant was like a mate from way back who was always around for me . . . Grant passing away at 48 is so hard to come to terms with as he was still in the summer of his life and had so much more to do . . . to offer . . . The Go-Betweens are one of my favourite groups, and Grant's Go-Betweens and solo songs are part of me - so although he's gone his music remains for us, his fans and friends, to enjoy and serves as a fitting tribute to a great man. Dear God, bless Grant and take care of his family. | ||
| michael clark Unregistered guest |
Growing up in the eastern suburbs of melbourne and then starting uni in the early 80's the go betweens were the most striking thing i'd ever seen or heard. Since then they've been a musical and emotional soundtrack. we waited for each lovely big vinyl record as it came out and rushed home to play it straight away. we cheered when they played cattle and cane on countdown and for every great review in the uk press. I think for my generation grant's tragic early death is a great shock. It can only be much worse for all his family and friends and my thoughts go to all of you. | ||
| Matthias Unregistered guest |
Thank you for every single song, Grant, I'm very very sad ... Love goes on! | ||
| Zach Alexakos Unregistered guest |
A sudden, unexpected loss; they are always the most difficult to come to terms with. Grant's music writing is legendary and immortal- it will remain so, we can all be guaranteed of that. | ||
| Willem de Weerdt Member Username: Weerdt Post Number: 1 Registered: 05-2006 |
Just in June last year I saw The Go-Betweens perform @ Slim's in San Francisco, Ca. It was a gig never to forget. At one moment some people were fighting in the audience and Robert immediately stopped the song they were playing and started singing the classic "if you're going to San Francisco, beware to wear some flowers in your hair....". The reaction of the audience on this forced intermission was full of respect and the atmosphere never became better. Grant on the background smiled and was amused about how his companion dealed with 'the problem'. I will remember Grant as a mysterious/melancholy man with a fantastic talent for writing memorable songs. Maybe his magnum opus will be 'Horsebreaker Star', a creative highlight. And 'Finding You' is stored in my brains forever. My thoughst are going out to the family @ friends of Grant. And Grant, well Finding You is not so hard while listening to your songs. Willem Utrecht, Netherlands | ||
| Paul Johnson Member Username: Paul Post Number: 2 Registered: 05-2005 |
Still stunned at the news. A massive fan since early eighties and privileged to have seen the band three times on the last tour so have some wonderful memories, but difficult to believe we won't see Grant again. Heartfelt condolencies to Grant's partner, family, band mates and friends. Hope Grant realised how much he and his music was loved around the world. Much love also to all the fans out there, to whom Grant meant so much. I can see the depth of feeling just from reading a few of the posts. Robert we feel for you. Paul | ||
| David John Roberts Member Username: David_roberts Post Number: 1 Registered: 05-2006 |
So shocked to hear the news.One of the greatest songwriting partnerships in pop history has been cruelly prised apart. The Go-Betweens have been a part of my life since my early student days in Edinburgh in the early-mid 80's, and they will continue to be a part of my life forever. They were so important to my circle of friends that we would travel long distances to meet up and watch them live, coming from Prague, Leicester, Hull to gigs in Manchester.Great music lovers though we were, no other band united us like that. I will miss the sublime melodies and the clever wordplay. Grant's lyrics often struck a chord with me. I still remember now, coming off a train in 1989 having left my girlfriend at the other end of the country, hearing Devil's Eye or Quiet, Quiet Heart, and the sentiments hitting me. It's strange that an act from the other side of the globe should resonate so closely with me, but that was the magic of the Go-Betweens. This is an even sadder day than the loss of David McComb, another great Australian, because Grant and Robert were still at the zenith of their powers, and I am sure there were many more immense albums ahead. My sympathies go to Grant's family, and of course, Robert. Your legacy will never die. | ||
| Flor O'Driscoll Unregistered guest |
I've only heard the news within the last hour, and I'm still in shock. I'm not a poet like Grant or Robert so I can't articulate what exactly this death means to me...I can say I've lost a hero, someone who co-wrote the soundtrack to my life since I was 15, and it seems like I've lost a close friend. After the triumph of the comeback albums, I was looking forward to the next...I'm sorry I was meandering off on a tangent. I genuinely don't know what to say at the moment except to give my heartfelt condolences, Lindy, Amanda and Robert Vickers, to Adele, Glenn and John Willsteed. I had the honour of meeting Robert once in Dublin in 1997 and I tried then to express my gratitude and told Robert (and manager) to pass it on to Grant as well. I'll try to take solace in the music-"Dusty in here" and "When people are dead" especially- and I'd like to say Grant took the RIGHT road with his tragically short like and co-wrote and wrote some of the most meaningful, memorable and glorious songs ever. He should have been (and you all should be) megastars, and household names. He was to me and to some of my friends. The world has lost one of its most gifted poets and songwriters ever. I'm so sorry. Flor O'Driscoll Esq. Charleville, Co Cork, Ireland | ||
| Peter Unregistered guest |
Only the good die young ! God bless you Grant ! Your songs are always with me... | ||
| mark hebden Member Username: Markyh Post Number: 1 Registered: 05-2006 |
thanks for all the great songs amd memories....you'll live on in my heart forever...mark,manchester UK | ||
| T and G, Glasgow Unregistered guest |
God rest you, Grant. Thank you for the wonderful words and music. The Go-betweens -together and apart-have been part of our world for over 20 years. Magical times- nothing could touch the atmosphere at their gigs. Can't believe it's over. Hope that Grant's family and friends gain some succour from knowing how much he was loved - | ||
| Paul Hannon Unregistered guest |
I had the good luck to be (minorly) involved in bringing the Go-Betweens to Dublin for their first visit in May 1986. They played a free lunchtime gig outdoors in what started as beautiful sunshine. And right when they got to "Spring Rain" it started to rain, lightly and briefly. I will always remember that moment, and I know that my best and oldest friends will too. Just had a new baby, so not playing a lot of music at home right now. But for some reason on Saturday I did play Boundary Rider while I was dandling my two-week old daughter. Two beautiful things. Didn't know then, of course. | ||
| Peter Bjørnholt Unregistered guest |
Just heard Yesterday - still in shock. Told my mates at work and all were completely stunned! We'll always remember Grants fantastic songs and they will always be with us. Sad Days - only the music will comfort us. Peter and Niels, Aarhus, Denmark. | ||
| Hilary Collins Unregistered guest |
My husband has been a massive Go-Betweens fan for years, but it wasn't until I went to Australia that I really understood the band. Thank goodness I made that trip! Thanks for all the music, gigs and backstage welcomes. I can't believe we'll never see or hear you on stage again. You were a great guy, and a fantastic musician. My thoughts are with the rest of the band, especially Robert. | ||
| Dave Byrne Member Username: Punchbowl Post Number: 1 Registered: 03-2006 |
It keeps hitting me. One of The first bands I truly fell in love with, I feverishly collected your entire back catalouge for years (including all the solo stuff).. I literally bawled my way through 'Horsebreaker Star' last night... Thanks for everything Grant. Dave, Ireland. | ||
| Allister, Toronto Unregistered guest |
I grew up with your voice, Grant. In Your Bright Ray is a top ten album for me, and you seemed to speak directly to me with your brilliant lyrics. We'll always have that voice on record, at least. Have a good sleep. | ||
| tony o Unregistered guest |
Found out yesterday and was so sad. First saw the go-betweens at Merlins Cave in London and then saw most of their London gigs over the next few years. Have a vague memory of Grant and Robert covering 2541 by Grant Hart at Subterrania, don't think I imagined it. So many beautiful memories of a great band, sorry to see you go too soon | ||
| Mitchell Alcrim Unregistered guest |
I will always treasure my memories of having met Grant and the rest of the band at the Columbia Hotel in London in 1989 while I was vacationing there. I worshipped the Go-Betweens and here I was chatting with them! Many years later I managed to say hello once again at the Paradise in Boston at one of the acoustic gigs Robert and Grant played at that time. I will always love this band. Thank you for this music. My best to Grant's family and friends--he will be missed, but he will always live on in the music he created, and I'm so incredibly thankful for that. | ||
| A_Friend_Of_Rachel_Worth Unregistered guest |
Goodbye Grant, thanks for everything - my thoughts are with your family, and friends. | ||
| Stephen Hiscox Unregistered guest |
The following is a text which I posted yesterday on my Myspace blog: I was shocked and saddened today to hear of the sudden death on 6 May of Grant McLennan, at the age of only 48. I've followed the Go-Betweens since the early '80s in Sydney; "Cattle and Cane" is still the best song I've heard about growing up in rural Australia (or rural anywhere) and not fitting in. I saw the band at least once on each of their annual tours downunder, and I still treasure their timeless, life-affirming records. I was thrilled when he and Robert reunited, and was fortunate enough to see them twice since the reunion, the last time at a rapturously received show at the WUK here in Vienna. I was also pleased to see them receive some commercial success to match their critical standing. Grant didn't know me, but for me he and Robert were like old friends. His music was as light as the breeze from the ocean on a Sydney summer afternoon. My thoughts go out to Robert and the rest of the band, and Grant's friends and family. "I recall a bigger, brighter world..." | ||
| pd Member Username: Peter_d Post Number: 10 Registered: 05-2005 |
Thank you Grant for expressing so beautifully what most of us struggle to convey..your words and music will live on for as long as people still fall in love. May you rest in peace. Peter, Dublin | ||
| BrendaM Unregistered guest |
I am completely devastated by the news of Grant Maclennan’s passing. The Go-Betweens were a seminal influence on my life and the music I was in to in the 1980’s; and remain so today with Ocean's Apart (amongst others). I lived in Sydney for fours years in the 80's and when I heard 'Darlinghurst Nights', I shed a few tears for the memories.....I even knew Frank Brunetti.....a long story so long ago now... As I play Ocean's Apart right now it makes me weep tears for Grant. I never knew him or the band personally but feel a very deep grief with his loss. With him goes part of my past…..and one of the best singer-songwriter artists Australia has ever produced. My deepest sympathy to Robert Forster (another brilliant, brilliant artist), the rest of the band, friends and families. There is a reason to cry RIP | ||
| The Danish Postman Unregistered guest |
I recall a bigger brighter world. Weep, all you lovers of articulate and passionate music for Grant McLennan of the mighty Go-Betweens is no more. | ||
| Bren Unregistered guest |
Some of the most emotional moments of my life happened whilst listening to Grant and Robert. Can't quite believe how much this has affected me. Go raibh mile maith agaibh Grant. For everything. | ||
| Black Hat Unregistered guest |
Round And Round, Up And Down Through The Streets Of Heaven Shine On | ||
| Evan and Audrey Unregistered guest |
Lindy said to Audrey "...great dress..." ...we loved you in Edinburgh in the eighties...still do...we only met a couple of times at the hoochie coochie club but like Francis said earlier, we felt we had known you always and I always believed maybe we would all meet up again...Grant, pity Prince didn't cover 'Spring Rain' like we laughed about last time we spoke... | ||
| Katsumi Konishi Unregistered guest |
So shocked that I can't believe we've lost him. I've been a Go-betweens fan for a long time and their songs really revived me so many times. I could luckly see their live in Japan in 2003, and still can't forget Grant's heartful smile. Thank you so much for beautiful melodies, Grant. | ||
| Chris Germany Unregistered guest |
I heard it on sunday in a german radioshow "der ball ist rund" and i could not believe it! The songs of grant are forever in my heart! My thoughts are with his family and friends! | ||
| Khamla Unregistered guest |
We'll miss you. http://khamla.livejournal.com/ | ||
| Alan Woodhouse Unregistered guest |
I have posted on here already, but just to let everyone close to Grant know that Belle And Sebastian played 'Bye Bye Pride' at their gig in Ludwigshafen on Sunday night by way of tribute. How fitting. Grant, I know you would have loved that fella. | ||
| Peter Jenkins, Glasgow Unregistered guest |
I had to pay my tribute when I heard the news. I saw Grant perform many times her in Glasgow. From solo at King Tut's, with Robert Forster at The Garage to The Go-Betweens at Govan Town Hall and Renfrew Ferry to name a few. This has hit me like the death of Davie Cooper. Now that would be the perfect day, watching Davie play football in the afternoon and Grant perform at night. They are lucky to have them in heaven. | ||
| José Polido Unregistered guest |
Spring Rain was the first song i heard from you guys and from that moment on i was hooked to your songs. In 1989 the band came to Portugal and unfortunatelly i was not able to attend any of the shows. But i was lucky to listen to a radio broadcast of some songs from the Porto show. I recorded that radio broadcast and it is one of the tapes i listen to the most with pleasure. Reforming in 2000 i believe was the best thing you could do because you were able to deliever us 3 of the finest albuns of the band ever. And above all was good to listen to your voices and spirits flowing alongside again. Now it is over but not gone Grant will be in my ears and heart forever and his songs will keep the light up for me forever. Love from Portugal José Polido | ||
| Kenneth Greve Jensen Unregistered guest |
I feel very lucky to have seen the gb's live more than once and I often said to my wife and friends that this music conveyed powerfull emotions in a subtle and gentle way that spoke directly to my heart. But coming from the north most of all the songs brought sunlight into my life (even on dark winter nights). Listening always made me think of summer. Grant will be missed but his legacy lives on. He was one of the truly great songwriters of rock'n'roll and th gb's was my absolute favourite band. My heart goes out to his family, friends, Robert and the rest of the band. Kenneth, Copenhagen | ||
| Ewan Milne Unregistered guest |
What more can be added after all these tributes? I've loved the Go-Betweens since I was a schoolboy in the Eighties. Unlike many others of my then favourites, their songs have stayed with me throughout my life, the poetry and wisdom of every line only deepening as the years pass. Stunned at such a shockingly sudden departures, all my thoughts are with your family and loved ones. | ||
| Todd Slater Unregistered guest |
Being given a copy of 'Send Me A Lullaby' at 13 was probably the greatest gift ever. It introduced me to Grant McLennan and Robert Forster and Lindy Morrison, who in turn provided the soundtrack to my life then and now. Dragged me out of suburban Brisbane to " A world of books & a bigger brighter world" I was in the front row at January's Sydney Festival gig. I took my sister who had never seen them before. Blown away then as I'am now. So sad, as he was doing his best work now and probably had two or three good books in him as well. A tragic loss to this country's cultural firmament. My condolences to his family, Robert F, and all Go Betweeens past & present. 'And to know yourself is to be yourself keeps you walking through these tears' Boundary Rider/Oceans Apart I have been reading these posts and it is incredibly sad. It's amazing how Grant has intersected with so many people through his music and in turn entered their/our lives. In June 2003 I flew to Brisbane for my 93yr old Grandmother's funeral it was a Friday. I remember making my brother stop off on the way to the church so I could get tickets for that night's performance of the Go Betweens at the Tivoli. I took a cousin along with me who I hadn't seen in years and he was so blown away. I was too, it was fantastic, so uplifting and Grant playing the bass on a killer version of Lee Remick. Another snapshot was the Zoo in September 1999. Jimmy Little on stage (Ed Keupper supported) singing songs off the Messenger record. Just beautiful music and then he turns and politely invites Grant on stage for a sublime version of Cattle & Cane. Just magical. I was taken backstage after their Metro gig in Sydney last year and met Grant. I was so nervous. I spoke to him about Kenneth Slessor a great Sydney poet. I really wanted to say to him that it was he who made me feel like it was ok to read and enjoy poetry as a 13 year old boy growing up in Brisbane in 1981. Oceans Apart was released the week my daughter was born last year. Last Sunday we held a 1st birthday party for her, tinged with news of your passing. The Go Betweens and all the solo records were played all afternoon. My daughter knows who her Dad's favourite band is as she has spent her first year of her life listening to them and one of the greatest records ever in Oceans Apart. Thank you so much for all the beautiful music, that will live forever. | ||
| will macdougall, berlin Unregistered guest |
Only just heard about Grant's terrible, terrible passing. My heartfelt thoughts go out to all of his family and friends at this, the most terrible of moments. A fairly recent convert to the majesty of Grant and Robert's music, I never met the man, but nonetheless feel a loss. I think it would be understating it to say we have lost one of the few remaining songwriters worthy of the name: Grant's songs were full of humanity. I have very fond memories of seeing the band last year in Berlin, where both Robert and Grant were on top form on what was a searing, sultry night. The railroad takes him home Through fields of cattle Through fields of cane From time to time... | ||
| Michael Unregistered guest |
Thank you for so many fantastic songs. Thank you especially for all the fantastic concerts in Hamburg. Thank you for everything. Michael | ||
| Luleane Unregistered guest |
I'm so shocked and sad...This time there do be reason to cry... I'm travelling a lot and I've been listening to Oceans Apart in loop for 2 months now. This is each time so beautiful as I am in the plane, flying above the clouds, or in the train, looking the countryside going by. This is like dreaming with open eyes, with my headset plugged directly in my heart. Now I know I won't help crying...Thank you so much Grant, Robert, Adele and Glenn. We will miss you Grant, you were too great and too young to die. Love from France. | ||
| Dave Ball Unregistered guest |
One day in 1989 I heard 'Quiet Heart' playing in a record shop, a song which completely summed up how I was feeling at the time. Stupidly I didn't ask who it was by, but I couldn't forget the words, and nearly ten years later I was able to track down 16 Lovers Lane, courtesy of the internet. I've never felt so moved by a piece of music as I did listening in Borders in Oxford St to confirm I'd found the right song, and I must have played it 10 or 15 times that night, plus most of the rest of the album several times - amazed to find other songs as good! Since then I've rated the Go Betweens as the best band i've ever heard, and bought every one of the last three albums on the day of issue - not something I've ever done with any other artists. What a tragic loss! | ||
| Duncan Hurwood Member Username: Duncan_h Post Number: 45 Registered: 05-2005 |
I remember the day I first bought a Go-Betweens record (well, it was a tape). A lovely Spring morning in Eastbourne in 1990, and I wanted something to listen to at work on the seafront. The cover of 1978-1990 caught my eye, and when I heard the music I couldn’t believe how well it fitted with the day. I worked my way through the back catalogue, not believing I’d not heard before of a group who had made so many lovely songs. Whenever I got a new girlfriend I gave them my “16 Lover’s Lane” to listen to, and whenever I broke up I bought another copy for myself. I bought every solo album in the 90s: they were the soundtrack of my life, getting married, having children. My wife was in love with the music too (how could she not!) and we both loved the new records, and seeing the group in concert. It was lovely to see how happy Grant was at the Barbican concert, oboe-ing along to “Bye Bye Pride”. The songs remind me of so many things in my life: love, loss and the triumph of the human spirit over adversity. They will always stay with me, and I’m glad so many others feel the same. | ||
| jane Humphries Unregistered guest |
Sweet dreams. Your words made sense to a lot of non sense which is/was the sound track of my life. And not just my life. I think even if we didn't 'know you' we feel the grief, so young, so gifted. I love the music and know your words will linger on forever. | ||
| kieron, kellie & matt Unregistered guest |
Although we never met Grant he made an indelible mark on our lives through words and music – his art. We recently designed the sleeve for a CD he contributed to. As fans we were so honored to be working on the same project as someone who has been such an inspiration to us. The Go-Betweens played a seminal role in our lives like so many people have expressed here in the last few days. Although we were not old enough to experience them during the 80s, we came to them as students in the early-90s and never let go. Grants writing was pure poetry taking us into other spaces both familiar and foreign. Yet one always felt sincerity in the thoughts and images expressed. It has been a privilege to have his music in our lives. Our thoughts go out to those closest to his heart. 'Its funny how someone you have never met manages to stay with you.' Trapeze Boy | ||
| Rory Cox Unregistered guest |
"Doesn't matter how far you come You've always got further to go" Grant, you've got much further to go, wherever you are. You've left behind many people, most of whom you don't know, who have been touched immensely by your songwriting vision. You will be missed, but we're all very thankful that your memory will live on in your wonderful songs. | ||
| kiek schouten Member Username: Kiek Post Number: 1 Registered: 05-2006 |
A smile from ear to ear, a look at Robert saying " this sounds great ". Grant, you wrote brilliant songs. You dared to explain your lyrics to an audience. Thank you for all the feelings you put in them. You will always be remembered for being such a wonderful, open man. | ||
| Freakchild Unregistered guest |
So many great songs - you can see from reading all the above how they've touched people's lives. The phrase that keeps coming "soundtrack to my life", is perfect, and completely apropos. Though it's been said that everyone who saw the Velvet Underground formed a band, I think that everyone who ever saw, or heard, the Go-Betweens felt they already were in a band. That band being the Go-Betweens - such was the connection, such was the intimacy. They felt, and feel, like family... I enjoy and have enjoyed many musical artists in my life, but none have touched me like Grant and the Go Bees. None have been nearer to my heart. As the great Lucinda Williams said, Grant, you are "too cool to be forgotten". Complete love and support to Robert Forster. | ||
| Brant Unregistered guest |
for so many years...the go-betweens, jack frost...grant has been around, hanging out like he was one of my friends. i never knew him...just his music, but i feel like i've lost family. when the go-betweens last played new york city, i wanted to go...tried to go. it was sold out, but i had a friend who worked at the venue...i found out later i could have gotten in. i felt terrible that i missed it, especially since i didn't have to...i remember feeling uneasy as i said, "i'll see them next time...they'll be back." for more than twenty years i have been a fan, but missed all my opportunities to see grant play, with or without robert/the go-betweens. so, today, alongside the feelings of loss...the vanishing of one of the great ones...i can't shake the regret i feel. i'll miss the man, but i will always have his music...thank you, grant. love to robert and everyone. Brant, New York City | ||
| E. Kindley Unregistered guest |
Sad and shocking news. The Go-Betweens have been my favorite band since I randomly picked up "Talullah" in a New York City thrift store in the mid-90s; from the opening lines of "Right Here" I knew I had found something special. My thoughts are with everyone who knew Grant. Rest in peace. | ||
| Peter Walsh Unregistered guest |
I've tried to write a post for the last couple of days but nothing I say seems to sum up how I feel. I knew Grant for 18 years. The Gobs inspired me to start the Livid Festival (which they headlined in its first year), I was a star struck kid looking for a way to meet my idols. I wasn't star struck after I got to know him but I was remained 'struck' by him. He was one of the sweetest most inspiring people I have ever known. I think he ended up playing Livid 8 times, either with the Gobs, solo, with Jack Frost or FOC. When asked what I thought was the best performance I ever saw at Livid was, I always say without hesitation The Go-Betweens at the first one, it really was jaw dropping. After the Gobs split in '89, before he moved back to Brisbane, I booked Grant's QLD shows, the first of these tours just when Watershed was released sticks out the most. He wanted to do lots of small shows. We organised a lunchtime gig at the Uni of Qld refec, to this day it was one of the most joyful afternoons of my life. Just a bunch of students sitting around the old refec watching GW play acoustic guitar, it was perfect. Like so many others have said the Go-Betweens were the soundtrack of my youth. Just today I received a text from a girlfriend from when I was 15, it simply said “I recall us school kids walking home” – a play on the Cattle and Cane lyric – I hadn’t seen or talked to her for 20 years, it just really brought home to me just how long the Gobs have been a part of my life. Grant and I shared a love of books, cricket and Dylan. When Dylan toured a couple of years back, it was the first time I had ever seen him, it was about Grant’s 100th. I was giddy with expectation at the thought of seeing Dylan, it was great being able to have a beer with Grant before and after the gig, I thought I was over analyzing the performance till it was Grant’s turn to talk, he eulogized parts of the show I hadn’t even noticed. We went to the Gabba test matches a couple of times and always over to the German club at lunch and stumps to discuss the proceedings. I can’t believe he’s going to miss the ashes series. There are so many memories, so many wonderful memories. I walked up the Brunswick St. Mall today stopped outside Rics and shed a private tear. My heart goes out to the family and to the band members both past and present, especially Robert. Robert, Grant was your biggest fan, but I’m sure you knew that already. Rest in Peace Man. Peter Walsh. | ||
| Mark H Unregistered guest |
I sat in the Co-op car park last night waiting for my daughter to come out of Brownies. I had Fireboy on as the grey rain fell on the windscreen and distorted my view of the world. Thinking about the man and his work. Feeling melancholic. Blubbed a little during Fingers. Noticing things about the world I hadn’t seen before. Comforted that the whole world was filled with others thinking about Grant and playing his music. And that’s not sad, is it? That’s rather wonderful, to touch so many people in such a fundamental way. Then I collected my daughter and she was bright and happy with her friends in the rain. And you know what? I’d never noticed before, but they label Brownies now. They have ‘Brownie’ in big letters across their chests. That’s weird isn’t it? | ||
| Simon Forrester, England Unregistered guest |
I am so saddened to hear of Grant's passing. His songs have touched and enriched my life since 1985 - the resonance of his words, the simple beauty of his melodies, the gentle but strong tone of his voice. It is heartbreaking to think that he has gone. Thank you Grant for those beautiful songs. They will keep you in our hearts and minds forever. My thoughts go out to family and friends. | ||
| erwin Unregistered guest |
Even writing 'I'd like to write something clever and moving, but' is a cliche, so why am i writing this? This is the first time that a musician died that I spent about an hour reading the condolences. Among the snapshots that came to my mind while reading was that the only object i nicked from a public library was Spring Hill Fair. Also, the Go-Betweens were the only band i could convince my elder brother of. And then of course the whole of puberty and adolescence. Crying to the Go-Betweens, being really annoyed to the Go-Betweens, being uplifted by the Go-Betweens, finding things a bit more bearable because of the Go-Betweens etc. I loved all his songs and particularly his shyness on stage and feel as if an actual friend has passed away. I wish everyone of his real friends and relatives everything they need to get to terms with this indeed very tragic loss. | ||
| Mark Unregistered guest |
Thanks Grant for so many fine memories. A drunken night in Manchester – we danced and rolled on the floor in front of the stage (Jimmy F - where were you ?). And the magic of seeing you and Robert together again at the Astoria in 2003. Played an old tape of Go Betweens videos last night – at the end of ‘Was There Anything I Could Do’ you had fake tears on your face. Real ones now from everyone who was touched by your songs LOVE GOES ON | ||
| Simon Ellis Unregistered guest |
What a horrible shock.I'd like to give my thanks to Grant and everyone who helped him produce his beautiful life enhancing work. Best wishes and sympathy to Grants family and especially to Robert. | ||
| Adam W Unregistered guest |
"Now that you have gone for good There is no peace in my palace now". Thank you for the beautiful, moving and lasting legacy. | ||
| Charlie G Unregistered guest |
Sad news. The world of music has had one of its great songwriters taken from us far too early. However, my sadness at Grant's passing is tempered by the memory of the wonderful songs he wrote and performed, both solo and in collaboration with Robert. RIP Grant, you are gone, but your music remains as a lasting memorial. | ||
| Mike C - Glasgow Unregistered guest |
The Go-Betweens were the only band in the world I would go to see over and over again. Every live performance added something new to thier beautiful songs. I can't believe I won't get another chance. I wish Grant could see all these tributes. I wish we could applaud him once again. | ||
| Stanislas Haquet Unregistered guest |
Hi... I still remember when I first heard a Go-Between song. It was Was There Anything I could Do on 16 lovers lane (17 years ago, I was 16). A Grant song ! They have not left my life from this time... even during the solo album time. I have seen them twice on stage in Paris, have even memories from having danced with Robert in La Locomotive, have bought almost all their albums (even the solo ones and even Cleopatra Wong !). The Go-Betwens were (and still are) in me. Like the best secret shared with my brother and one or two friends. They will never leave my life, even if Grant is not there anymore. Their songs will remain. I am looking forward to meet Grant in Paradise, for another gig. See you there... For the rest, all my hopes are in Robert's hands. Stanislas | ||
| Kev K Unregistered guest |
What a loss. Thanks for the memories, both live and on record. May your music continue to shine. | ||
| lila c in sf Unregistered guest |
my sister called me with the sad, sad news on sunday and i am still in dismay. yet another great songwriting talent fades away from this world. i hope grant's family and friends will take solace in knowing that his songs and music touched so many lives. i first heard the go-betweens on the radio in 1987 with 'right here' and i knew then that i was hearing something very special indeed. it would not be until 2005 when i finally got the opportunity to see them live in glasgow at the renfrew ferry, a truly magical night that i will always remember..grant's songs always rang so true for me. he was able to get to the core of every emotion i was feeling, from loneliness to frustration to sadness and somehow make me feel better with his wise, honest, sincere, non-condesending tunes of love, lost, and regret. i will be listening to his music and thanking him fondly for what he has given us. | ||
| JBD Unregistered guest |
All the emotions contained in these wonderful messages, Grant could have wrapped them up in a three minute pop song. That's why he was a genius and will never be forgotten. RIP | ||
| Mike Oborski Unregistered guest |
The news came as such a shock. The music of Grant McLennan and Robert Forster - both solo and as The Go Betweens - has been such a major part of my life for so long. His music made me smile, kept me happy and made me think. We all owe him such a lot. | ||
| Stuart Sharp Unregistered guest |
A friend called with the sad news and I've been thinking over the last couple of days about the many great nights of music in Glasgow with Grant and Robert over the years. The Govan Town Hall, a strange venue for a start, where the wooden panels reverberated with that golden sound of 16 Lovers Lane, the acoustic gig in G2 when it seemed Grant and Robert couldn't stop smiling at being back gigging together, the Renfrew Ferry, like a family reunion last year, and so many others over the years. The Go-betweens songs, full of wit, charm and intelligence have been a very important part of my life for over 20 years. My thoughts are with Grant's family and friends. | ||
| Fred Tadrowski Unregistered guest |
I can not believe what I read in the NYT this morning. I have been listening to your songs since picking up the Before Hollywood album in the summer of 83 after reading a review of it in a local music magazine. I was 17 and I still remember driving a hour across the Chicago area on a sunny day to the one of the few record stores that carried English imports. The store is no longer there and is now a bank branch (no surprise). There are not many bands or musicians that I listened to back then that I still listen to now. But I have never stopped listening to your songs and sometimes at three in the morning waking up the neighbors. I was lucky to catch the Go-Betweens last June in Chicago with my wife who is now a Go-Betweens fan. It was a great show. You will be missed. | ||
| Dan Stanley Unregistered guest |
the white moon appears like a hole in the sky, the mangroves go quiet... we've lost a true poet and I know that I feel like I've lost a friend. every note grant ever played or sang was touched with a poignant optimism, and his spirit shone through. the world's a poorer place... | ||
| planet Unregistered guest |
like many others on this board, the songs of mclennan and forster have provided a distinctive and dizzy soundtrack to my life thus far. their songs are like reliable and unique friends that are always there for you, no matter what the circumstances. they’ve seen me through the many first flourishes of romance, the heartbreak of breaking up, the mundanity of soul destroying jobs, warm and endless technicolor summers and wet miserable wednesdays in november.. i only got the opportunity to see the go-betweens once, on a barmy june evening in Dublin, but christ, they were sublime. a band that had the power to create magic from thin-air and strike cords and memories within you that could resonate for days. they also wrote some of the most irresistibly catchy pop tunes ever!!! I’d jut like to say thanks to grant for doing what he did, and the fantastic manner in which he accomplished it. he will long be remembered, for generations to come. I’d also like to say thank you to Robert for the equal part he played in this most splendid and understated of bands, I hope he continues to find an avenue for the immense talent that he has. We need artists of his calibre. I’d like to pass on my condolences to grant’s family and friends during this awful period, I hope they find comfort in the fact that he was a man admired and loved by many, a man whose ‘quiet art’ has and will continue to have an effect on the many who come to fall under it’s bewitching spell. “I burn my candle at both ends, it may not last the night, but oh my foes and oh my friends, it gives such brilliant light”. | ||
| ColinW - Dublin Unregistered guest |
May Grant rest in peace and in the knowledge of the power of his art to touch so many of us in such a deep way. Deepest sympathies to his family and loved ones. Been a fan of the GBs since first hearing "Eight Pictures" from Send me a lullaby on Irish radio in the very early eighties. Didn't own a record player till much later but loved hearing Cattle and Cane, Bachelor Kisses etc on radio - funnily enough often listened to while milking cows on our family farm in Donegal, rural Ireland - perhaps not unlike where he came from. Liberty Belle and Tallullah were the soundtrack to college days, after seeing them play free at lunchtime in Trinity College Dublin in 1985. Bye Bye Pride still sends shivers down the spine with its majesty and perfection. ( using an OBOE, for gods sake!) On every record, GBs or solo, there would be at least one song( and oftentimes many more) that would blow you away and leave you lost for words in admiration for his ability to craft yet another perfect song. Pop music as an art form has rarely been better served. | ||
| Danny Lloyd Unregistered guest |
Vale Grant McLennan. The songs said so much, to so many, yet so succinctly. To paraphrase Badly Drawn Boy: "Songs are never quite the answer, just a sound track to a life, that is over all too soon," The most gut-wrenching loss to the Australian music scene since David McComb's passing. "Sometimes we don't come through, sometimes we just get by." | ||
| bernard Unregistered guest |
My first exposure to the Go-Betweens was when they opened for Alex Chilton back in the late eighties. Chilton was okay but the Go-Betweens really impressed me. I remember Grant during the performance of Cattle & Cane wading through the crowd touching people while singing. From there they became one of my favorite bands. I also got a chance to meet Grant when he & Robert started to tour togather before recording as the Go-Betweens again. I told him how I loved the band and that I was glad to see that they were playing with one another once more. The reason why I am recounting these experiences is because I was really saddened to hear about Grant's passing yesterday. The only other time I was truly saddened by the passing of a musician I admired was Joe Strummer. The loss of a great songwriter like Grant at such a tender age serves to remind us about how fragile life can be. It is really a shame that such a talented individual will never give us such beautiful music again. We will never get to hear him perform such gems as Simone & Perry, Ice in Heaven & Bachelor Kisses. So much has been taken from us by his passing. So, my sympathies go out to Grant's family & friends. May he rest in piece. | ||
| alex in philadelphia Unregistered guest |
Wouldn't be much of a shock to hear that "Cattle and Cane" was my introduction to the Go-Betweens as well - a perfect song. Mr. McLennan sang his truth; this is the only way I can explain to myself how he found the words the melody, the timbre of such pure emotions. Even in the silence of remembrance, I can feel his work. May his unique gift be shared with the poor shuffling go-betweens of this earth that he has left behind. My thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends. | ||
| theremoteviewer Unregistered guest |
i'm very upset after hearing the news only this afternoon. I saw the go betweens for the first and only time in Hepburn Springs, just outside Melbourne, last year. I had the time of my life. For all of roberts wonderful posturing, it was Grants sugarspun voice and his WONDERFUL way with a chorus that made me fall in love with the band. my thoughts are with his friends and family. and i'll cherish my one night in a pretty spa town in Victoria even more. | ||
| Tristan T DK Unregistered guest |
I feels so dusty in here - listening over and over again and again to the songs of Before Hollywood, Liberty Belle and Oceans Apart. Just can't imagine never seeing The Go-Betweens live again. Saw them for the first time in Copenhagen October 1983 - absolutely stunning! Their concert at Roskilde Festival 1987 is the best gig I've ever witnessed. | ||
| Hans Unregistered guest |
condolences to family and friends I'm looking at Grant's autograph on the inside sleeve of 7inch next to the song lyrics of Don't call me gone ...next time that you look around I'll be gone. call me lover, call me baby, call me anything but don't call me gone... I'll miss you, but you're not gone... Thanks for everything Hans, Vienna | ||
| Martin R Unregistered guest |
Only just learned of this tragic news. I am shocked beyond words, I cannot begin to understand. Totally shocked. A million thank you's Grant, your words will last with me forever. Sincere sympathy to all family, Robert, and friends. | ||
| Pascal Engelbert, Belgium Unregistered guest |
I'can't believe that Grant is Gone. I'm listening to the Go-Betweens for years and I feel very affected by this news. I will always regret to never have seen him playing live. My deeply condolences to his family, to Robert and the band (all members past and present) "It's cold and dusty in here", without you Grant. Thank you for everything. | ||
| Bren Unregistered guest |
Like everyone else here, I'm truly shocked and saddened by Grant's passing... He'll be remembered deep down in all those those wonderful tunes that have stayed with me through my youth & beyond....... a true genius & a true gent... "I recall a schoolboy coming home Through fields of cane To a house of tin and timber And in the sky A rain of falling cinders From time to time The waste memory-wastes.... Bren, Dublin | ||
| Lloyd Cole Unregistered guest |
I can only speak for my wife and I, but this is terrible news. Robert and Grant were rejuvenated by the Rachel Worth record which is my favourite 'come back' record by anyone, ever, and serves as great encouragement for notsoyoung folk trying to make music. I'm toasting Grant, alone in a Lisbon hotel lobby. Robert, if you need anything, I'm easily reached at lloydcole.com. | ||
| Tc_Norrkoping/Sweden Unregistered guest |
RIP Grant! | ||
| Ian Davis Unregistered guest |
I first heard the Go-Betweens on a sunny summer lunchtime in 87 in Woking Our Price while working a crappy temp job and knew instantly they were special. I got to see them live twice, and thanks to being at one gig with a beautiful girl friend (not girlfriend!) even got backstage one time - at their last UK gig before the "split". I was devastated on hearing of Grants untimely passing. There is another world somewhere where they are number 1, Top of the Pops forever. Dont you know baby, we wont find it again. I am 38 years old and I just want to cry.... | ||
| Hallvard W Johnsen Unregistered guest |
It was immensely saddening to hear of Grant McLennan's passing. I honestly did not know that the death of a person I've never met, not even seen in concert could have such a deep impact on me. The music of Go-Betweens and his solo records have all played a significant part in a period of my life that is long gone, but thankfully, I had refound my old interest with the Oceans Apart record. I wil never forget all the happy moments brought to me by your music with all its love, humour and friendliness. | ||
| Davie Unregistered guest |
On 15 April, I went to pick up my newborn son and partner to bring them home for the first time. It was a beautiful Scottish morning and I wanted something to match my mood for the journey. Almost instinctively, I put on Bye Bye Pride: lyrically a million miles from the joy in my heart, but musically it was perfect for the occasion. That was Grant's genius. I shouldn't feel this much sadness at the death of a stranger on the other side of the planet, but I think back through countless gigs over more than 20 years, the innumerable highlights and the immesurable addition the Go-Betweens made to my life. I am sad for his death, but rejoice in his legacy and the lives he and Robert touched. "I sighed, and inly cried for joy, that one so low should rise so high." | ||
| Pascal Richeux Unregistered guest |
Even if I didn't know Grant personally, I feel today like I lost a close friend. The Go-Betweens songs have accompanied my life for years. I discovered them at the end of the 80's and fell immediately in love with them. I had the privilege to see Grant play live several times (with the Go-Betweens or solo) and I will always remember these moments. You just had to look around you smiles on people's faces to really understand their magic. They had this unique ability to make people happy. All my condolence to his family and to Robert. We'll miss you, Grant. | ||
| Dave Swann Unregistered guest |
I remember hearing that the Go-Betweens were coming to play further up the valley. It just didn't happen. Your heroes didn't play in Lancashire. Not in Colne. We prepared thoroughly, chipped in for an advance copy of 'Before Hollywood'. The album arrived the day before the concert. We had 24 hours to learn the lyrics. I remember clustering around the little mono record player in Anthony's front room, then cramming into the back of Mark's cement van. I remember being as excited as it was possible to be. How could we not be? We were 19 years old, we had new jackets from Oxfam, one of us even had a job. The planet would soon be ours. Then the concert. I think the club was called Frank's. It was run by a guy with huge eyes that never blinked. I seem to remember he was wearing a hat. Or maybe I was wearing a hat. He shone with holy light. He told us his colossal plans for bringing the Stones to Colne. We stopped listening. The Go-Betweens tore the place up. The crowd went wild. All 40 of us. At one point, when Anthony, Mark and me were singing along, Grant looked down at us and said, "Oh, come on - you guys are taking the piss. It only came out yesterday." That did it. Acknowledgment. I thought my heart would burst. I thought my head would fall off. I think we may even have danced. It was the first time in my life that I can ever remember thinking, "This is it. We're adults. We made it!" Afterwards we talked to Robert for more than an hour. I told him that the line about microphones hidden under stones in 'Before Hollywood' was the greatest line ever written. I told him what a tonic it was to hear lyrics that were about more than just love. As if there was anything bigger than love. And, yes, I think I used the word 'tonic'. Poor Robert. What a lovely man. And how great when Grant wandered past every now and again with his pint to take the piss out of us. He did it with that secret smile you sometimes saw flash from his face in concerts, a little shake of the head. He struck me as a complex man - it was important for him to come across as laid-back, a proper Aussie, you could see that. But the torment in some of his songs... lovely tunes fitted to songs about wife-beating, suicide, loss. It was the kind of pain we understood - unfussy, full of self-blame, bound by social obligations. We lapped it up. Lapped it up for years to come. I rememember I once saw him washing up at a window in north London. I nearly knocked on the door, couldn't make myself.... Other times. The time I watched Robert and him buy a pizza. The lovely ordinariness of things. The thought in my head that I should go across and tell them how I loved their gentle music, the way they balanced irony and passion, the way everything in it said Yes to the world, Yes to its sadness. Robert, if you ever read this - there was a little bunch of us in Accrington, England, who lived our early adult lives to your music, and who love it still, even those of us who hate nostalgia for the mud, who don't want to wallow. And - Grant, I wish I'd knocked on that door, I wish I'd appeared in your door-well, entirely uninvited and unwelcome, to announce that there was one better line in pop history than Robert's about microphones & stones. It was the line in 'Cattle & Cane' about your dad's watch, about leaving it in the shower. I'd never known there could be such gentleness in a pop song, such love for the world's things... ... the simple, ordinary things you won't ever know again, that all of us will one day touch for the last time. Whatever we have is right here. Right here. The Go-Betweens were just about the only pop group of the '80s who knew that, who had the humanity to write about loss in an era full of winners. Thank you, Grant. Thank you, Robert. I'm going to puton 'Second Hand Furniture' and have a little cry. | ||
| Paul G Unregistered guest |
This is terrible news. Thank you Grant (and Robert)for your wonderful songs. You'll never walk alone. | ||
| Marco Lembo Unregistered guest |
I'm 22,I'm Italian.Some years ago I've bought The Friends of Rachel Worth after reading a review.The music on there was beautiful and Grant's song(especially Magic in here)became favourite of mine. I was shocked when I've read the news and just want to give a message to loved ones and friends. I know it sounds obvious but truth is, his music will live on.I will keep listening to the Go-Betweens and spread the word around.Only shame is I've never seen gobetweens live and never will,sadly. Grant:thanks for all the fabolous and inspired music you gave us!!!!!!!!!!!! | ||
| Ian S Jackson, Merseyside, UK Unregistered guest |
i've been a Go-Betweens fan for a long long time...since the 1st time i heard John Peel play 'Cattle And Cane' probably...'Before Hollywood' is one of my all-time top 10 LP's....it was such a shock to hear of Grant's passing i could hardly believe it...i immediately thought of his song 'She's So Strange'...a song that still haunts me even now, an absolute beauty...i'd like to express my sadness and send my warmest thoughts to his family and to Robert...now playing 'That Way'...thank you for all the great tunes Grant... | ||
| Tom Brogan Unregistered guest |
I was gutted to hear the news. I'm sad that I'll never experience the joy of a Go-Betweens show again, but grateful that I had two great evenings in Glasgow over the years, doing just that. At the Renfrew Ferry a year ago, Grant seemed to have a smile permanently etched across his face all throughout the night. My heart goes out to Robert, and Grant's friends and family. | ||
| Raymond in Dublin Unregistered guest |
I keep typing things and deleting them because they sound corny. The messages above say it very well. Rest in peace Grant and thank you a lot. | ||
| Wilson Unregistered guest |
My world froze when I logged on to the message board on Sunday. I still cannot take it in. It's less than 12 months since I last saw the band in Birmingham UK, to think I'll not see Grant & Robert on stage again is unbearable right now. Time will pass and I know that the love I have for the beautiful heartfelt songs, the aching melodies, poetic lyrics,will grow stronger. I was so pleased to meet him after the Barbican show, shake his hand and say "Thank you for the wonderful songs". We were both too shy to make eye-contact. He has left a wealth of beautiful art for all of us. So many people will have a chance to discover what everyone else who has posted on here already knows and loves. Rest in peace Grant, Love and strength to all those close to him. | ||
| Dave Ungar Unregistered guest |
This has hit me very hard. Harder than I would think something like this would. I've seen the Go-Betweens many times, but I never met Grant. Yet this leaves a deep void in my stomach. This week is no different for me in the amount of Go-Betweens music I'm listening to. I've been listening to them enthusiastically for 22 years. But the songs all sound different to me this week. It's bittersweet, but I hope that feeling doesn't last. Thoughts are with Robert and all of Grant's friends & family. I posted this thing below on another messageboard yesterday. I hope it doesn't trouble anyone - but I think anyone who saw the Go-Betweens live a few times will get a laugh from it. I post it with all due respect and admiration for one of the greatest songwriters and performers I have ever seen: "I've been listening to live shows today ... I'm guessing that Grant is uncomfortable in his casket and the bright light at the end of the tunnel is in his eyes and he needs more of his guitar in his monitor because he can't see and he can't hear and he can't play if he can't hear." | ||
| Paul Pope Unregistered guest |
I can't even begin to describe how sad I am by this news. I got into the Go-Betweens 9 years ago and I finally got to see them play a very small, intimate, short gig in a record shop in Edinburgh last year. It was truly one of the most magical musical moments of my life and a memory I will always always treasure. Both Grant and Robert were both charming as they chatted to everyone after the gig and I was left with the deep impression that here was the true spirit of music. My deepest sympathies go to his partner, family, friends and all the people associated with the band. Paul | ||
| Heliotrope, Scotland Unregistered guest |
Grant will be sorely missed I'm so sorry for his poor family. | ||
| Tom Unregistered guest |
I happened to be in Australia when 'Before Hollywood' came out. I went down to Sydney to buy a copy. My Australian cousins thought I must have made it up - an Aus band that was cool in Britain. 'Cattle & Cane' was the perfect soundtrack to a long, slow drive up the Queensland coast to Cairns. Years later, I heard the Go-Betweens play 'Bye Bye Pride' (about Cairns) live in Bristol Bierkeller. Like hearing the Clash play 'White Riot', the Fall do 'English Scheme', or the Birthday Party staggering through 'Release The Bats'. If we have to refer to this band in the past tense now, let's just say they were bloody brilliant and woefully overlooked by a trend-obsessed British music press. | ||
| Johannes B, Malmo - Sweden Unregistered guest |
SO SO SAD!!! It feels so cruel that someone that gave so much and meant so much for other people has to leave as so soon. I just met Grant once, even though I did not knew him it almost felt like he was a close friend through his music and lyrics...I just can't imagine what a horrible moment this must be for Grants family and friends! My thoughts are with you! I have loved your music for so long and it will always be a companion in my life. Gentlemen like you are a rare rare art! Grant, you will be truly truly missed! | ||
| Andrew Kerr Member Username: Andrew_k Post Number: 78 Registered: 04-2005 |
Like so many others here it seems, the band have been a large part of my life for over 20 years. It is like losing a close friend, as there has been an honesty, artistry and humanity to their music since the beginning, that we all have connected with. The one time that I interviewed Grant ('87) he was charming, witty and serious about his art. I had the luck to see them play live maybe a dozen times and those memories will be with me forever. And we still have all those wonderful records: at the best of times 'Cattle and Cane' still brings a lump to my throat. You leave a beautiful legacy to the world, Grant. All our thoughts are with Robert, Grant's friends and family. | ||
| Ed Newman Unregistered guest |
When I was 16yrs old my best friend handed me a copy of liberty belle and told me that it was the best record I will ever hear. The first song I sang live in my school band was "Devil's Eye". The Go-betweens shows I have been to over the past few years have been amongst my happiest live experiences. Grant was a beautiful songwriter and master of his guitar. Thank you, Grant; Best wishes, Robert | ||
| Andrew Steed Unregistered guest |
As a Church fan I came to Grant's music by the relatively unusual route of the Jack Frost albums. This led me to all the Go Betweens albums which I have got so much pleasure from and I was privileged to finally see them play last year in Birmingham. I was very saddened when I heard the news and would like to send my deepest sympathy to all of Grant's friends and relatives. | ||
| HarschLanguage, Hamburg Unregistered guest |
After the shock of hearing about Grant's passing this morning, it is very comforting and impressive to see how many people feel exactly like me. I first heard the Go-Betweens 16 years ago on a lovely summer day at a friend's place in Ireland, and they have been an important part of my life ever since. I'll never forget the looks Robert and Grant exchanged at the first Hamburg gig after the reunion. They spoke of the sheer joy of being able to create music and of an almost palpable, deep friendship and love between the two. If anything impressed me more than their music, it was that vibe between the two of them on stage. All my sympathies to Mr Forster and to everybody who is affected by this terrible loss. | ||
| Nic Sadler Unregistered guest |
I cannot write this without crying. I first saw the Go-Betweens live when they played at the West Australian Institute of Technology in 1987. During an elongated version of Cattle and Cane, Grant wandered out into the crowd. I remember that day so well. I have been a loyal fan ever since. Grant and Robert's music has been the soundtrack of my life. It is almost unbearable that I will not hear another installment of the greatest songwriting partnership of my generation. I have lost a friend I never met. | ||
| Bix Unregistered guest |
Grant's death was one of the saddest news about someone I only knew on stage and from all the CDs and LPs ever. Just on Saturday three of us were discussing the stupid question of whom we admired more, Robert or Grant, again ending with: It's the two of them together that create the music that's more important than any other. I got to know the Go-Betweens only in 1991, and when they reunited it was great news. After the concerts all these people were smiling gleefully, as touched as me and my friends. I once told somebody as we were listening to the Go-Betweens: That's what love is. And I think it was, seeing them on stage, no cheesy romance, just being there. All the best to the other fans, friends, and Robert | ||
| bryk Unregistered guest |
i was 16 when my friend nick said "hey, i'm doing sound for this great band from australia, you MUST see them" it was a horrible basement club in the west end of toronto, he had to sneak me past the bouncers because i was underage, and i still thank him for it. i think my life was changed more than a little bit that night, not just as an awestruck kid starting to contemplate how much i could aspire to as a writer, but just to see (for the first time in my young life) craft and devotion and genius without pretension or needless gesture or condescension, and see a little more what beauty was and could be, and just drink it in for a little while. after all these years your songs are not only my teachers but my friends, and i know i'm not alone in that. ride on, grant | ||
| Adam Siegel Unregistered guest |
Awful, awful. I'm so sorry. Music that has gone with me everywhere--everywhere--in the past two decades and more...listened to the records until late in the evening after a friend of a friend gave me the terrible news. My heart goes out to all who were fortunate enough to know and love Grant McLennan. "This road that we're on, it travels so far...." | ||
| Estela García Unregistered guest |
Llevo varios días devastada por la noticia de el fallecimiento de Grant, no soy una gran entendida de estilos acústicos, composición y demás formalismos, pero de lo que sí entiendo es de sentimientos y puedo decir que ha sido y es un placer poner un disco de los Go-Betweens y dejar los sentimientos de alegría, tristeza, melancolía, amistad...fluir. Sentir su compañía. Muchos ánimos a la familia de Grant, a Robert y a admiradores incondicionales como Adolfo que llevan al grupo en su alma y lo están pasando mal. Un abrazo fuerte y hasta siempre Grant | ||
| Tim Forslund Member Username: Tfslund Post Number: 4 Registered: 01-2005 |
My thoughts and prayers go out to all friends and family. A sad time, but a time to be thankful for all the warm memories of songs, concerts, and the life landmarks that music leaves us with. Nothing but thanks and loving reminders of what a talented friend we have had. | ||
| Gordon, Glasgow Unregistered guest |
I finally felt able to listen to Grant's music tonight after a couple of days where i couldn't face it. Put on Fireboy as i hadn't listened to it for a long time and halfway through my sadness evaporated and i had a big smile on my face. That's the measure of the man, that the special joy and wonder of his music can overcome such darkness even now. Thank you for everything, all those wonderful shows i saw and all those great records,you were a little genius!! | ||
| Brad Whiddon Unregistered guest |
For the first time in my life I have been crying all day for the loss of someone I've never met but feel like we were old, dear friends. I'll miss you, Grant. | ||
| Jamie Henderson - Brighton UK Unregistered guest |
I first saw the Gobs at the Jazz Cafe in London on their first tour after reuniting. I had been a fan for a couple of years before hand. Seeing them do about 5 encoures in that one show was amazing, and I was fortunate enough to see them play 7 or 8 times after that. I'll never forget the joy you brought me Grant, and today when I heard the news, I shed a number of tears for you. My thoughts go to Grants family, his girlfriend, his friends and his best buddy - Robert. RIP mate. | ||
| David Whiting Unregistered guest |
My first post was incredibly brief as I was still in shock. Many fond memories of seeing Grant & Robert and many wonderful feelings of hearing a new Go-Betweens track for the first time. Our thoughts are with Grant's family and friends and especially to Robert. It is very hard to lose someone close and to lose the expectation of wonderful times and feelings. | ||
| chris bartley Unregistered guest |
Can't explain how sad I feel. 48 is too young and at a time when Robert has said that he has never been happier. Just feel so privileged to have listened to all his beautiful songs since someone played 'Springhill Fair' to me way back in 1984. As a 20 year in Middlesbrough, 'Bachelor Kisses' sounded like the most beautiful marriage of poetry and music I've ever heard. And it still is. Since then I 've bought everything and had the pleasure of hearing him play them live so many times. In our thoughts Chris and Angela Bartley | ||
| jen raj Unregistered guest |
I was introduced to the Go-betweens late in their game, but relatively early in my life through the release of Friends of Rachel Worth. I was immediately hooked and greedily snatched every piece of the back catalog I could. Interest in music influenced my interest in writing, and I had the excellent opportunity to review Jetset's re-releases last year, a great present for a fan. I will hold dear seeing the band at Mercury Lounge and Southpaw here in NYC and especially recalling Grant's full-face smile that reflected his love for the music. I have found myself in recent times, prior to his death playing a few of Grant's songs on repeat- Spring Rain and Boundary Rider from the cd version of that Striped sunlight sound especially. Perfectly capturing the dichotomy of spring, the grays and blues and the sun inbetween. Grant, you will remain in my heart and your songs at home in my ears. My thoughts and condolences to Robert and Grant's friends and family. You will be missed indeed. | ||
| David Evans, London Unregistered guest |
I first discovered the Go-Betweens at a gig in the bar of Swansea Uni, in front of about 50 people, circa 1987. Their songs have been close to my heart ever since, and never fail to lift me or raise a smile. Although I never met Grant McLennan, when I heard the news I felt like I'd lost a friend. Every interview I read or heard, he came across as a wonderfully warm, funny man. My thoughts are with his family and friends at this sad time, but I am very thankful for his life. | ||
| Joern Unregistered guest |
This was a news that hit me really hard. There were few things that made me so sad in the last months or years. Although the world has a lot to offer ... We never met, we never shook hands, we never communicated face to face ... but this is like losing a close friend because you were always there. With your music. You were and you are an important element in my life. Your music and your lyrics will always be there. Thank you for the melodies and the messages that I will always carry in my heart ... All my sympathy and whishes to the family and friends and especially Robert. Please carry on ... the legacy of a friend, a tribute to music ... Joern, Hamburg, Germany | ||
| Sean McEntaggart Unregistered guest |
I've been a fan for over 20 years.I remember Grant invoking the audience at the all sit down Dominion Theatre in London (for the 16LL tour) not to be intimidated by the surroundings to get out of our seats and press forward to the stage. Many years passed to my next Go-Betweens show in Albany NY, where Grant and Robert graciously played with passion to a sparsely attended venue. I asked Grant to play 'Riddle in the Rain' to which he responded "Robert really likes that one". But they had not rehearsed it. One very special memory was the Providence Rhode Island show in 1999 when i got to have a quick moment with Grant just as he entered the dressing room- he was panting and gushing with wonder and pride about the just completed show. "Did you see us tonight - we were one person, every note every song, every step, it was perfect". I've been heartbroken since i've heard the news. Grant i'll miss you very very much. | ||
| christophe rennes france Unregistered guest |
la nature a fait deux sortes d'esprits excellents:les uns pour produire des belles choses ou de belles actions ,les autres pour les admirer merci à Grant de m'avoir donner le privilège d'integrer ce second ordre avec toute mon émotion | ||
| shaun b Unregistered guest |
What a shock ! How could this happen ? This man, this talent, this true genius. My heart is heavy with sorrow for his passing and there is nothing I can do except listen to his music and shed a tear. What a man ! | ||
| Gareth Edward Jones Member Username: Connolly_9 Post Number: 1 Registered: 05-2006 |
A big THANK YOU to Grant for the fabulous songs - what an amazing legacy you have left, both as a Go-Between and as a solo performer. Perfect pop songs that will always be treasured by those that hear them. What a massive loss to family, friends and fans. We'll never forget you. Robert, keep singing and performing. We need you. Gareth (Wrexham, north Wales, UK) | ||
| Nathan, Edinburgh Unregistered guest |
Was listening to 16 Lovers Lane this morning when i heard the news- still in shock i think. After borrowing a tape of Tallulah from my dad 10 years ago- i would never have imagined how important Grant and the Go Betweens would be to me, through the bad times and the good. Honoured to have seen them live several times over the past 5 years, humbled to have spent 5 minutes with one of my idols and most of all thankful for some of the most beautiful music the world will ever know. From Cattle and Cane to Horsebreaker Star, from Apology Accepted to Oceans Apart- thank you Grant. Much love always | ||
| Nick Barber Unregistered guest |
I only saw the Go-Betweens once, in Manchester, many years ago, but I was touched, and am saddened that someone who had so much to give has gone. Thank you for what you gave us and my thoughts are with those close to you. | ||
| Christophe Unregistered guest |
I'm french and I met The Go-Betweens for the fisrt time in my life during a gig on 17th may 2003 thanks to a friend. It was a rainy day, in Le Café de La Danse, in Paris, and it was one of the most beautiful concerts I've ever seen in my life. The osmosis, the incredible friendship between Grant and Robert when they were singing their songs of spring were simply emotional. We often speak of this concert with my friend, your music often plays in my car on in my son's room (he's 2 years old !) since this evening, and now I'm really sad. I would like to thank you for this incredible moment and for all your music. I would like to excuse myself because of my difficult english, but I really hope you trust me, Robert, when I tell to you I'm really sad for you, for The Go-Betweens and almost for the pop-music in general. And "Too Much Of One Thing" is a song I very often listen, one of the most perfect pop songs ever written in the 30 past years. | ||
| Stefania - Italy Unregistered guest |
You've been with me, through your music, since I was sixteen and you will always be. I'll never forget you. I only will wait a little to listen again to your songs, because now it's too hard. I saw the old "Bachelor kisses" clip today and it's been beautiful and painful at the same time. All my love to your family and especially to your son, because I know what it means to lose a father suddenly...and of course, a great, great hug to Robert...try to be strong... Stefania | ||
| Les Patterson Unregistered guest |
Deeply shocked to hear about Grant. Have loved the Go-Betweens for 20 years and was lucky enough to see them live once in Glasgow - many moons ago. At least his work will live on though, a truly timeless songwriter. My heartfelt condolences to Grant's family, Robert and the rest of the band. Les (Dundee, Scotland) | ||
| Dave Paul Unregistered guest |
Having been away from a PC for a couple of days it feels funny to see the person who told me the terrible news and the first person I wanted to tell having both already posted. Guess a lot of people here felt the same: you had to tell someone else who felt the same way as you did about Grant and the band. Two days since hearing there's still a sense of unreality about it. I remember getting my first ever pay packet from working three days at an agricultural show and buying 2 GBs albums first thing the next morning. I remember 2 nights in the 80s, 1 in the 90s and 1 in the 00s when I watched the best band in the world. I remember my friend Alan phoning me breathless with excitement because Grant had been at his flat. I remember demanding that if it happened again he was to let me know immediately even though I lived 500 miles away! Your favourite band makes you say things like that. To me and I know to many others on here they were simply the best band in the world: They still are. Much love and good thoughts to Grant’s family and to his friends, especially Robert. Thanks Grant. I wouldn’t have missed it for the world. | ||
| Don Adler Unregistered guest |
Grant and Robert and The Go-Betweens always felt like old friends whether or not you actually knew them. You always felt that they'd be around, whether as a band or individually. And in discussions about music, those that knew and revered their music instantly got one's respect, knowing that that person KNEW about quality music and that you could then have a meaningful conversation about music with that person. Losing Grant feels like losing a longtime, sincere and respected friend. He was so young. I do hope and pray that he passed peacefully and trust that he knew that all his fans worldwide respected him. Don | ||
| markI Unregistered guest |
several years ago i was driving in Los Angeles listening to KCRW. Magic In Here came on and I couldn't get it out of my head for several days. I had never really heard the Go Betweens but new they were well thought of by people with great taste in music. I went out and bought the Friends of Rachel Worth cd right away and I've been a fan ever since. It's so rare to find music that gets under your skin immediately. When it's moving and funny at the same time - what a bonus. Thank you Grant and Robert for enhancing my life - and my drives around southern California. My best to Grant's family and friends. He has left behind a treasure and I know that will give you strength in the days ahead | ||
| Cab Unregistered guest |
RIP Grant, one of the finest and most consistently fantastic songwriters of all time. Thank you for always brightening my days with your music. Love and deepest condolences to Grant's family and friends and, of course, Robert. Cab (Toronto, Canada) | ||
| Alan English Unregistered guest |
Grant, your music will be with me forever. You were a true master - up beside Dylan in my opinion. To Robert, another master, please write and record songs for us, and play them to us when you feel the time is right. My profound sympathy | ||
| mosstinpowers Unregistered guest |
In 1998, I left my home town for the first time to travel around Australia. Back then - the pre-ipod age - armed with my walkman and 2 carefully constructed compilations, I set off. One day in Cairns, strolling around the city with my music for company - 'Bye Bye Pride' as it happens - I looked up to see where the hell I was. And there it was, a sign reading Shields Street. To this day I've never figured out if that was the the very same street alluded to in the song, but that memory allied to the memory of one magnificent gig in Melbourne last summer outweigh everything else at this moment in time. I have never had the pleasure of meeting the man, but what a wonderful guy. Rest in peace. | ||
| Richard Unregistered guest |
the mind of man is an enchanted glass, so said Francis Bacon...well not many have transported the light so well....such a fantastic band...poetics, rudimentary guitar, unexpected loveliness...thank you Grant McClennan...& thinking of you Robert. Hope to see you play in London before too long... | ||
| Julian Robbins Unregistered guest |
Just heard about Grant's death on BBC Radio2 in the UK. I've been a fan since 1985, and bought most of their albums since and before. Last year's album was definately up with their best, ie Talulah, and 16 Lovers Lane and Liberty Belle. Most sadly, I never quite got to see them live. Now, its never going to happen ... | ||
| John Scheinman Member Username: John_in_dc Post Number: 1 Registered: 05-2006 |
I have very little right now to add except the grief in my heart. You think you could write for hours at a time like this, but I just feel tired, really, really tired. You beautiful men. only chaos could silence such a team. As june carter cash said, robert, 'press on,' but in your own way on your own time. if anyone can make true sense of this, they are better than I. memory wastes. | ||
| Patrick FitzGerald Unregistered guest |
Here in London, I have never felt so far from my home town, Brisbane. Two years ago, in a small village in the Picardy region, France, I strained my ears. The kids were tired and crying, my wife impatiently waiting to get going in the car and I lingered in a tabac to listen to a few more lines ... "I know a thing about lovers". Last night, In Edinburgh, in a Grassmarket bar with business colleagues, I watched the girl behind the bar put on Dusty in Here. Our eyes met ... we both knew why she put it on. I wanted to tell her I came from Brisbane, but realised that the GB's music was held dear in hearts everywhere - something borne out by reading these posts from people all over the world. I was also nice to read posts from familiar names like Peter Walsh and David Pestorius - David I remember that great gig of theirs you organised in Church Street quite a few years back now. Grant and Robert surely are Australia's greatest songwriters. I only met Grant once, but knew him through his music. I always stare off into the distance when hearing the line about his father's watch in the shower. | ||
| m2 San Diego Unregistered guest |
I just heard about Grant today and am (like everyone here) greatly saddened by the news. I never got to see the GB's & knew little of them having grown up in the middle west wasteland of the U.S. However, I did get into Grant's solo music & found him to be a wonderful singer & songwriter. I have no excuse now not to go back into the catalog of the Go Betweens & become better acquainted with this great band. RIP Grant you will be missed. All love & sympathy to his family & bandmates. | ||
| d, Glasgow Unregistered guest |
The Go-Betweens have been a constant, pretty much throughout my adult life. I feel so sad for those who were close to Grant and hope that the depth of feeling here can provide some kind of support. Grant just really touched so many people with his wonderful songs. | ||
| Gary, London Unregistered guest |
Many of Grant's songs are so intimate that you can't help but feel that you knew him well. I am lucky in so far as I have only that sad but slightly odd feeling of missing someone I had never met or spoken to, others will feel a pain much deeper and for much longer. Love goes on. | ||
| Ciara Farrell Unregistered guest |
I first encountered the Go-Betweens in 1987, aged 14, when I borrowed a tape of "Liberty Belle.." from my sister and never gave it back. I was only beginning to learn about music then, beginning to form opinions of my own, but I quickly formed the opinion that this band were more than good - they were special, and they were doing something special, that this music was, in some way, important music. It probably went right over my head, lyrically, but the music was imbued with a gorgeous melancholy that struck a real chord with me and countless others. That so many names above and on the previous thread feature in my music collection alongside the Go-Betweens (much pocket money spent there) is a testament to this. I see lots of names I know from Dublin too. Not surprising, that. I've never had to "explain" the Go-Betweens to anyone in Ireland, like I have in other places. Everyone here seems to regard them as our own (though I'm sure the Aussies will dispute this!) and we will mourn Grant as one of our own. In the 90s, I got used to thinking of the Go-Betweens in the past tense, so I was delighted when Grant and Robert decided to reconvene, allowing me (finally) to see them live and producing wonderful new material every bit on a par with their much-beloved 80s output. That Grant McLennan, a man of such talent and essential decency, should be taken from his family and friends at such a young age is a terrible tragedy, and I offer them my heartfelt condolences. He meant a lot to people who never met him, but whom he touched in such a profound way through his music. He will be very sadly missed. | ||
| pip Unregistered guest |
God bless Grant, rest in peace. A great songwriter and a massive influence. Never have wood, metal and electricity sounded so good. | ||
| Frank Loeschnauer Member Username: Frank_l Post Number: 1 Registered: 05-2006 |
Shaken when I heard the news. Grant's songs touched my soul. A very, very fine songwriter. Been a fan of the Go Betweens since Lee Remick. They're one of those bands that was always in the background disappearing and then emerging out of the blue with great songs. Never saw them live. Had a chance to see them at Tilleys in Canberra a few years ago and didn't go. A big regret now. Thanks Grant and Robert for producing some magical songs. I'll be playing them for the rest of my life. | ||
| Werner Wingen Unregistered guest |
Thanks Grant for making our musical and spiritual lives so much more enjoying and worthwhile over the past 25 years. I can say I've enjoyed every bit of it and no-one can take it away from us going forward. We'll miss you!! Werner (Atlanta/GA) | ||
| Brian Cunningham Unregistered guest |
Sad, sad news indeed. I'm grateful to have had the opportunity to catch the go-betweens on two occasions since their reunion and both times were wonderful experiences, among the best performances I've witnessed to date. Despite never having met Grant, I am affected as though he were a friend, due to the warmth he exuded on stage and the songs whose lyrics I know so well. Best to all his loved ones... Brian | ||
| Declan Stylofone Member Username: Stylofone Post Number: 1 Registered: 05-2006 |
There were tears in morning peak-hour traffic as Sydney's FBI radio played Cattle and Cane (again) this morning. I grew up in country New South Wales, and while it was more like horses and hay for me, the emotions in that song were like my childhood too. I remember flogging it on college radio in Bathurst, and alone in my room on my precious ghetto blaster when "Before Hollywood" came out. Also "That Way", "Two Step Step Out" and "Dusty in Here"... the volume always turned up to 11, lying on my back, the songs giving me shivers; it was only sound, but still an all-over body experience, an electric shock to the emotions conducted through the whole body. Album after album would come out, and impossibly, that experience would be repeated every time. It was a good time for Australian music, but the Go-Betweens were the best. We were serious music fans in those days, but I still had a kind of Beatlemania gland which would pump hormones of hero-worship into my young brain. For a group like the Go-Betweens, this was probably inappropriate but I didn't care. We'd make long drives through the countryside to the city to see them play. The first time I went backstage to meet them was in Canberra, in a relaxed corner of the Uni bar, partitioned but with no security. I had to meet all four of them, nothing really to say except I like your music, thank you so much. For me, this was something to tell the grandchildren. It has been great to read messages from people who knew Grant personally. I only met him once or twice, just more of those fan encounters, although I had good conversations with Robert Forster and Robert Vickers. Grant's music was life and love distilled. I'm a little bit angry that celebrities of no account are euolgised interminably, but those who truly deserve accolades remain obscure, cult, boutique. But Grant's music is his own tribute, it outshines the ignorance we have come to expect from the shallow world of pop music. And everyone here knows the truth. | ||
| Chris Ambrose Unregistered guest |
I've just stumbled across news of Grant's death on the BBC news site. Grant and Robert's music has spoken to me directly, like no other, for the past 20 years and I'm sure like a lot of people here its kept me company through some difficult and some very good times: transcendent, romantic, vivid poetry magically admixtured with spiky music and wry humour. A cliche I know but I feel like a very special friend has gone. Rest in Peace you lovely man. With love and sympathy to Robert and to all of Grant's family,friends and colleagues. Chris Christchurch NZ | ||
| Graham Chaplow Napier NZ Unregistered guest |
My father died in 65 when I was 16. Six years ago I removed his ashes from where they were entombed and scattered them in the harbour near where he ran a haberdashery. This while listening to Grant's 'Quiet Heart'. I often find solice returning to the site and listening to that song over and over again. It inspires me to write. From now on it will have added meaning. Love & Peace to Grant's family and to Robert and Go-Betweens past and present. | ||
| Alastair , Glasgow Unregistered guest |
Reading through these posts, the sense of common understanding is overwhelming. Songs that for the rest of my life will take me to a unique place. If only the intensity of feeling expressed on this electronic exchange can begin to compensate for the years lost. On the Renfrew Ferry last year, everything made sense. Thanks Grant. | ||
| Gregor Kern Member Username: Neopolka Post Number: 1 Registered: 05-2006 |
I heard the news only today from a younger colleague. It's hard to believe. I've known the music of the Go-Betweens for more than 25 years now. Without ever having met them or talked to them personally Grant and Robert always felt like friends or (slightly) elder brothers, who kept me company more than half of my life. Therefore I will miss Grant very much! May he rest in in peace. All my sympathy to his family, Robert and the band. | ||
| bellt Unregistered guest |
Been devastated since i've heard the news and the realisation of not seeing Grant & Robert together on stage again hits very hard. Just feel so privileged to have seen the Go-Betweens at the Corner Hotel in Richmond in 2002 and 4 other Melb gigs in the 80's. Those memories and the music will always have a special place for me. My thoughts are with Grant's family and friends. | ||
| johanna clark Member Username: Jo_clark Post Number: 1 Registered: 05-2006 |
To my dear friend Grant, thanks for your love and unique talents - it will take a long time to believe you are really gone and that i won't be able to look forward to seeing you and catching up. I never expected you to live the longest time but this is just too soon. I'm so glad we had such a big hug at our last meeting. We were all looking forward to seeing you and Emma together on the weekend at the house and I really wanted to see the mummified cat art. Deepest sympathies to your near and dearest at this time. I'm sure u would appreciate the sillyness of writing a note to you now. Sleep well x josie. | ||
| Shaun Hoffmann Unregistered guest |
Music is part of our life, you are the music, so you are very important now, more than ever. Love to all Grants friends and family. | ||
| EYE Unregistered guest |
"Oceans Apart" was one of the warmest, most emotionally generous and honest pop albums I've heard in many a year. And the live show I caught last year at Southpaw in Brooklyn, NY was the same - warm, emotionally generous and honest. Grant McLennan was the secret weapon that made it that way, given Robert Forster's cooler, more detached style and affect as both a songwriter and singer (though of course not without his own passionate and unique musical qualities)- the balance was perfect. Very much a Lennon/McCartney type of thing. I wish there could have been more music from them. Glad I got to see them when I did. It was a pleasure and a privilege. Thank You. | ||
| Ian Unregistered guest |
I have grown older listening to the Go-Betweens and saw them several times in the early days. I then lived overseas for 4 years in the mid to late 80s and hearing Right Here or Streets of Your Town on the radio always cheered me up in the lowest times. I have had the good fortune to see Grant play solo during those days and also to see him since the reunion - the last time in July last year at the Forum in Melbourne. A great concert and a memorable moment to see him do a lovely version of Cattle and Cane. His memory will live on. | ||
| Kemi Helwa Unregistered guest |
Thank you for the hope and the beautiful songs. Don't know how many times throughout my life I have listened to the GoBetweens to help through the sad times. Thank you so, so much for that. Love and deepest sympathy to Robert, Grant's family and friends xx | ||
| Javier Martinez Unregistered guest |
First time I saw the go betweens was back in 1988. I was only 19 years old. On 2001, during the gobetweens show in madrid, i had the pleasure to talk with Grant for a few minutes. We talk about the band comeback, about the "jack frost" project and how happy i felt talking with him. And i´m not happy now at all. I really fell like a long time friend is gone. Thank for all the music and those moments i had with these music. Thank you Grant. Thank you my friend. Javier Martinez Madrid, Spain. | ||
| Peter in Perth Unregistered guest |
My mind is full of thoughts that tumble around and come rushing out as tears. Somehow I feel that a bit of Austalia has passed with Grant. Something indefinable, but tangible. I am actually greiving. My condolences to Grant's family and friends all. | ||
| Grant Dunlop Unregistered guest |
Deepest sympathies to Grant's family and friends for the sudden and terrible loss of a very gentle man who will be missed by many. Thank you so much for the music. | ||
| Amanda Unregistered guest |
The passing of Grant McLennan was the subject of a speech in the New South Legislative Council last night 9 May. The speech can be accessed by the following link: www.parliament.nsw.gov.au/prod/parlment/hansart.nsf/V3Key/LC20060509051 | ||
| Steven and Ursula Pritchard Unregistered guest |
Ahh!The memories all come flooding back.So many from the 70's and 80's.Robert,we send our love and our thoughts are with you. | ||
| Dave Jones Unregistered guest |
Thanks Grant for all the wonderful songs and memories. The Go Betweens music has soundtracked many of the ups and downs of my life over the past 20 years, and once again, their words and music are a great comfort at this very sad time. My thoughts and prayers are with Grant's family and friends | ||
| Vyv Rodnight Member Username: Vyv Post Number: 1 Registered: 02-2006 |
I first met Grant, Robert and Lindy in July 1982 when they played at my local south London pub (Herne Hill Half Moon) - had heard John Peel play them, loved them even then. A friend who came with us was a keen photographer (we were all 17 yrs old, mind!) and asked if he could take some photos of them in a nearby park, and they graciously agreed. I still have copies somewhere ... And now, twenty four years later, I have to say goodbye and I don't want to, can't understand how I can. So many tender and joyful memories - from raucous gigs (Dominion Theatre in '88 stands out) to private moments listening to albums. Thank goodness I travelled to Hepburn last year even 'tho it had sold out and I was ticketless - now that will be the last time of seeing your warm smiles at Robert, your passion for and commitment to your songs. Grant: I said to myself after hearing 'Boundary Rider' what a joy it was going to be growing older alongside you, in your sweet music, your beautiful words. Many have said this on this board, but it's true for me too: I have lived my life with your music, found hope, depth and poingancy through your words. You have been a treasured companion through your music. Next year, my Go-Betweens circle would have been completed, as you were booked to play my 'local' in my current hometown, Castlemaine. Even tho' it was far off, I had set myself to meet and talk to you, to tell you of the gifts you had brought to our lives, to thank you. That can't happen, so I do so here. Thank you Grant. Rest in Peace. 'To know yourself is to be yourself' My best wishes to Robert, band members past and present, and all Grant's friends and family | ||
| olivier meirhaeghe Unregistered guest |
Like a lot of other french kids, I discovered the Go Betweens in Les Inrockuptibles, shortly before they disbanded for the first time. On my bedroom wall ih ad pinned the "streets of your town" picture disc. I only saw them once, at Slim's in SF a few years ago..I aged, but the Go Betweens never did.. Grant's singing would still bring shivers down my spine anytime.. Thank you Grant for building the soundtrack of our lifes.. | ||
| Grant Kitchener Unregistered guest |
Wow; am very shocked like everyone else. Was into the Postcard Records scene but i kinda missed the Go-Betweens ; but not for long ! By the mid 80s i had seen them in concert in London; it was a lovely ramshackle gig, but full of passion and great tunes. "Cattle and Cane" had become a favourite; but later i had a liking for "Rock n'Roll Friend" as i put it on a tape to a girl i loved ! It doesn't matter whether Grant wrote the lyrics; the whole spirit of The Go Betweens was important whenever he and Robert were together. And personally i also liked Jack Frost. Rest in Peace, Grant - i feel proud to be called Grant right now. | ||
| John Tremel Unregistered guest |
Sunday,I was surfing the web and happened upon the news.My heart sank.My wife and I had the good fortune of seeing the Go-betweens play in N.C. Great show. Met Grant and Robert after.Such nice people.Thanks for the great music. He will missed. | ||
| James Warchol Unregistered guest |
I am shocked and stunned after hearing the news today of Grant's passing. How ironic that I was humming "Spring Rain" to myself as I was walking to my car in a steady drizzle after a particularly bad day at work today. This was before I heard the news about Grant, of course. Reading about someone you respect and admire leaving us too soon really puts everything in perspective. Thank you Grant, for all the music. I only saw the Go Betweens once, back in '87 in Milwaukee, but I was lucky enough to meet and interview the band that night for a fanzine I worked on at the time. Everyone was gracious and charming as me and my girlfriend (now wife) hung out and chatted. It was a great evening. Afterwards, I sheepishly asked everyone to sign my gatefold 7" sleeve for "Right Here". I dug that out again today to relive the memory of that night. Looking over the signatures on the sleeve, I was struck by another irony - Grant signed his on the inside of the sleeve right by the song lyrics for "When People Are Dead." Strange. Ironic. Sad. But seeing that again today and having it mean something so different to me now gives me pause. And perspective. Again, thank you, Grant. And thank you as well, Robert. All my best goes out to the collective families and friends during this sad time. | ||
| Tony Hogan Unregistered guest |
I only discovered the majic of the GOB's a year today with Oceans Apart release. I was only recent to Brisbane and looking for some meaning in the town, Grant and Robert brought that and I thought Statue to be the perfect pop song. Grant you made my soul dance with your music and must have been an incredible man to touch so many so deeply. You may not have received the financial rewards from this life and town that a man of your talents certainly deserved however the emotional connection you made in so many ways outweighed this. It is now your time for peace. | ||
| Vivienne Unregistered guest |
Tears keep coming. Miss you, Grant. | ||
| Nic Barnard Member Username: Nic_barnard Post Number: 2 Registered: 06-2005 |
Is it unfair to say many of us came to the Go-Betweens for Robert, but we stayed for Grant? Those hilarious interviews in the NME (Bobby taught Prince to dance!) and a tape of Part Company persuaded me to pick up Head Full of Steam and it was as funny and moving as I'd hoped. But what made me buy the album was the demo on the b-side, The Wrong Road. The strange story, the wonderful, lost images and of course that great line, the sound of a finished kiss. I bought the album, and by the time I reached Apology Accepted, it was love forever. What a great, great song. There are so many memories associated to Grant's songs. They seemed to mean more to me over the years and gained more layers of meaning and beauty when I finally spent time in Australia. Visiting Cairns and realising I was walking down Shield Street, and then the birds really did open their throats (never did find the Brisa de la Palma though); driving over Brisbane's Storey Bridge to Streets of your Town; seeing Grant play at Ric's; seeing the Go-Bs do a charity show that year (2002) and realising as I watched Grant and Robert huddled conspiratorially backstage between sets that they really were back. Hearing Grant and Robert play Finding You for the first time on the radio -- on my birthday no less; as fine a song as he's written, and the first one I reached for on Sunday. I still can't see a full moon without hearing Bye Bye Pride. | ||
| Shawn Loht Unregistered guest |
Dear Grant, This news is no less shocking to me now than it was three days ago. There is a little piece of me that won't stop crying inside. I discovered your band six years ago, and even though I've never met you, your songwriting has been a huge influence on my perspective of life as well as of what music can be, and I feel like I know you intimately. If anyone deserved an honest chance at living a long and fulfilling life it was you. I hope you enjoyed the time you had, because you deserved happiness immensely. I wish you eternal rest and peace after sharing your gift with so many. | ||
| terry1 Unregistered guest |
Crushed.These beautiful songs of life and love that I can't get out of my mind. |