Doug Parkinson dead – Without You singer dies suddenly aged 74

Australian singer Doug Parkinson has died this week at the age of 74.

The talented musician, whose career spanned more than five decades, died suddenly at home.

During his many years as an entertainer, Doug had toured with The Who and played with The Questions and Small Faces.

His passing was confirmed by publicist Lionel Midford in a poignant statement.

“Just received the saddest news that Doug Parkinson, the legendary Australian recording artist with a powerful and soulful voice. He passed away suddenly at home,” he said.

“Doug Parkinson was widely considered one of the most unusual and influential singer-songwriters in the history of contemporary music.”

Doug Parkinson died suddenly at home (Image: Getty Images) Doug seen in 2004 at the MO Awards (Image: Getty Images)

In the late 1960s, Doug struck out on his own with Doug Parkinson In Focus and found worldwide fame with his hit version of the Beatles song Dear Prudence.

His own mega-hit Without You followed soon after.

In 1979 he had success with another hit cover, I’ll Be Around.

Doug Parkinson pictured in 1990 (Image: Fairfax Media via Getty Images)

His track The Sun Ain’t Gonna Sun (Anymore) hit the top 20 in 1981.

Doug also enjoyed success in the theatre, with roles in the musicals Tommy and Jesus Christ Superstar.

Before he died, he was due to perform a gig in Adelaide, Australia, this Thursday.

Doug in 1978 (Image: Fairfax Media via Getty Images)

He was also booked to tour until August.

Doug was born in Waratah, New South Wales, in 1946.

As a teenager he worked as a reporter on the Sydney morning newspaper The Daily Telegraph.

Doug performing with Jon Stevens in Sydney in 2011 (Image: Getty Images)

He was an avid surfer but sadly suffered an accident in which he was hit by a surfboard and was knocked unconscious and almost drowned.

He was bedridden for six months while he recovered from his injuries.

Doug kickstarted his career in in 1965 when he formed Strings and Things.

Doug performing in Tommy in 1973 (Image: Fairfax Media via Getty Images) Read More Related Articles Read More Related Articles

In his later career he focused on musical theatre.

He told The Herald Sun in 2016: “My favourite thing is working with a crowd.

“It’s what I’m going to keep doing. I have no plans for retirement.”

You can leave your tributes to Doug in the comments section below.