“Took the Children Away” – goodbye, Archie

The great Archie Roach, gone at 66. He wrote and recorded six wonderful albums, beginning with “Charcoal Lane” in 1990 - which included this song, surely one of the greatest blues songs ever written. It described his own painful life story – and in the process helped to educate Australians about one of the darkest chapters in their history.

He died on Saturday at Warrnambool Base hospital, surrounded by family and loved ones.

“We are heartbroken to announce the passing of Gunditjmara (Kirrae Whurrong/Djab Wurrung), Bundjalung Senior Elder, songman and storyteller Archie Roach,” his sons Amos and Eban Roach announced in a statement on behalf of the Roach family.

“We thank all the staff who have cared for Archie over the past month. Archie wanted all of his many fans to know how much he loves you for supporting him along the way. We are so proud of everything our dad achieved in his remarkable life. He was a healer and unifying force. His music brought people together.”