Chrissy Amphlett, the lead singer of Australian rock band the Divinyls has died aged 53.
She passed away in New York, following a long fight with breast cancer. She also suffered from multiple sclerosis, which prevented her from undergoing chemotherapy treatment for the cancer.
The band formed in 1980, going on to release their biggest hit ‘I Touch Myself’ in 1991, which scored them a number one in Australia. They disbanded in 1996 before reuniting again a decade later, finally calling time in 2009.
As well as co-founding the Divinyls, Amphlett was an actor, performing alongside Russell Crowe in a 1988 production of Blood Brothers. Crowe paid tribute to her, writing: "Dear Chrissie, The last time I saw you was in the Botanic Gardens, loving life and reciting verse. That’s how I’ll remember you, your boy, R".
In a statement Charley Drayton, her husband and fellow band member, said: "Chrissy’s light burns so very brightly. Hers was a life of passion and creativity; she always lived it to the fullest. With her force of character and vocal strength she paved the way for strong, sexy, outspoken women."
