Iconic Australian country music singer Joy McKean, who was the wife of legendary performer Slim Dusty, died at the age 93.
Her record label EMI announced the news today. She succumbed to cancer, and was regarded as the “grand lady” of country music in Australia.
She was described as a national treasure by Troy Cassar-Daley and was the backbone of the country music industry in Australia.
She also wrote many of Slim’s most popular songs. She won the Golden Guitar award at the country music festival held in the town of Tamworth.
In a statement, EMI noted that Joy McKean OAM passed away peacefully last evening after a long battle against cancer.
She is regarded as a pioneering figure in Australian music. She and Slim, who was also a country music legend, produced over a hundred albums and won 45 Golden Guitars.
While she was the manager of Slim, she also raised their six children. She was often described as the “grand lady” of country music.
Keith Urban noted that she was beside Slim when he needed her. Paul Kelly also referred to her as one of the best writers in the industry.