SOUL singer Renee Geyer has died at the age of 69.
The Australian musician, who shots to fame in the 1970s, died after suffering complications following hip surgery.
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Geyer, whose glittering career spanned more than five decades, was the first woman to be inducted into the Music Victoria Hall of Fame.
Her devasted family described Geyer as a “force of nature” as they confirmed her death.
They said: “It is with immense sadness that we announce that Renee Geyer has passed away from complications following hip surgery.
“While in hospital, it was discovered that Renee also had inoperable lung cancer.
“She was in no pain and died peacefully among family and friends. Naturally, we are all utterly devastated.”
Geyer, known for her husky vocals, kicked off her career with bands including jazz groups Dry Red and Sun.
She then had solo success with songs including It’s a Man’s Man’s World, Stares and Whispers and Heading in the Right Direction.
The star also worked with the likes of Sting, Chaka Khan and Joe Cocker as a backing vocalist.
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Melbourne- born Geyer, who was inducted into the ARIA Hall of Fame in 2005, last performed just a month ago.
Her family added: “Just last month, Renee sang to a full house and was looking forward to another busy year ahead doing what she loved most – performing for her loyal fans around the country.
“Renee lived her life as she performed – on her own terms and to the fullest.
“Beloved and respected, she was a force of nature and a national treasure, and her passing leaves a giant void in the Australian music industry.”
Singer Marcia Hines hailed Geyer as a “game changer” in an emotional tribute.
She tweeted: “A soul diva. My sister in song.
“Heartfelt condolences to her family and friends, and to the Australian music industry as a whole who have just lost a person who possessed one of the greatest voices I have ever heard.”
Music writer Bernard Zuel said: “The best soul/R&B/anything you like singer Australia’s produced, and more life and character in her than a century of compliant talent show graduates.
“Gonna miss the great Renee Geyer.”
Matt Gudinski, CEO of Mushroom Group – Geyer’s label since the 1970s – described her as a “trailblazer for women”.
He said: “We don’t need to say that Renée was a great singer – everyone knows that, however it is important to acknowledge Renée’s contribution to the Australian music industry.
“In particular, she was a trailblazer for women. She was fierce, independent, strong and passionate.”
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