TRAGEDY ROCKS AUSTRALIAN MUSIC SCENE: Legendary Dragon Guitarist Robert Taylor Dead at 74
- Robert Taylor, iconic guitarist of Australian rock band Dragon, passes away at 74
- Taylor’s bandmate Kerry Jacobson pays heartfelt tribute, describing him as “irreplaceable” and “one of the good ones”
- Dreaded musician leaves behind a legacy of hits, including ‘April Sun in Cuba’ and ‘Are You Old Enough’
Australia’s music industry is in mourning today following the devastating news that Robert Taylor, the legendary guitarist of rock band Dragon, has died at the age of 74. The shocking announcement was made by Taylor’s bandmate and dear friend, Kerry Jacobson, who remembered the musician as an “irreplaceable” talent and a true musical comrade.
Jacobson, who had the privilege of sharing the stage and studio with Taylor for decades, said he was still reeling from the loss of his friend. “Many admired his songwriting and his musical talent, and after all these years, people would still speak to me with great reverence of his talent and contribution to Australian music,” he wrote in a heartfelt tribute.
As the guitarist of one of Australia’s most influential bands, Taylor left an indelible mark on the country’s music scene. With hits like ‘April Sun in Cuba’ and ‘Are You Old Enough’, Dragon became a household name, and Taylor’s masterful guitar work was the driving force behind their success.
Music library AudioCulture described Taylor as one of “New Zealand’s best-known lead guitarists”, and his iconic riffs on ‘April Sun in Cuba’ remain etched in the memories of music lovers across the nation. “Our condolences to Robert’s family and friends,” they said in a statement.
In a poignant reflection, Jacobson remembered Taylor as a man with a “dry wit” and a “memory like a razor”. “He was one of the good ones,” Jacobson said, his voice heavy with emotion. “That’s what has stuck in my head today – ‘he was one of the good ones’ – and I think that sums it up.”
As the music world comes to terms with the loss of this rock legend, fans and fellow musicians alike are paying tribute to Taylor’s enduring legacy. With his passing, Australia has lost a true musical icon, but his music will continue to inspire and uplift generations to come.