Brian Cadd
Brian George Cadd AM, born on November 29, 1946, in Perth, Western Australia, is a renowned Australian singer-songwriter, keyboardist, producer, and record label founder. With a career spanning over five decades, Cadd has been a significant figure in the Australian music scene and has also made his mark internationally, particularly in Europe and the United States.
Cadd's early years were marked by his prodigious talent, winning a TV talent quest at the age of 12 and securing his first professional job as a pianist for a children's TV program. His family moved from Tasmania to Melbourne, where he became involved in the jazz scene and later transitioned to rhythm and blues with the Jackson Kings.
In 1966, Cadd joined the Melbourne-based band The Groop, and later became a member of Axiom, The Bootleg Family Band, and the American group The Flying Burrito Brothers. He launched his solo career in 1972, releasing several successful albums including "Brian Cadd," "Parabrahm," and "Moonshine," the latter achieving Gold certification in Australia.
Cadd was also a prolific producer and songwriter for other artists, working with notable acts such as Robin Jolley, Ronnie Burns, Tina Arena, and Glenn Shorrock. He founded Bootleg Records and contributed music to films and television, including "Alvin Purple" and "The Heartbreak Kid."
In recognition of his contributions to music, Cadd was inducted into the Australian Recording Industry Association (ARIA) Hall of Fame in 2007. He was honored in the Queen's Birthday Honours in 2018 for his service to the music industry.
Cadd's discography includes 13 studio albums, numerous live and compilation albums, and several chart-topping singles. His enduring influence and contributions have cemented his status as an iconic figure in Australian music.