Folk Singer Richie Havens and Rock Vocalist Chrissy Amphlett Pass Away

The singer of ‘Freedom Motherless Child’ dies because of heart attack, while the lead vocal of Divinyls loses battle against breast cancer and multiple sclerosis.

Music world lost two of its gifted musicians, Richie Havens and Chrissy Amphlett. Havens, who is most remembered for his cover of Bob Dylan’s song ”Just Like a Woman”, passed away on Monday, April 22, at his home in New Jersey because of heart attack. The first performer at 1969′s Woodstock Festival who possessed intense guitar skill was 72.

Havens’ representative said in a statement, “While his family greatly appreciates that Richie’s many fans are also mourning this loss, they do ask for privacy during this difficult time. A public memorial will be planned for a later date.” Havens is survived by four daughters and many grandchildren.

People in music industry took to Twitter to mourn Havens’ passing. Producer and musician Joe Henry wrote, “The great Richie Havens has passed. A heroic and generous spirit; a most singular artist. He changed me. He changed you too, know it or not,” while Rage Against the Machine’s guitarist Tom Morello said, “RIP Richie Havens. A great talent, great soul.” In addition, The Monkees’ Michael Nesmith tweeted, “A HUGE loss to the music world. Devastating news.”

Previously, the vocalist of Australian rock band Divinyls, Chrissy Amphlett, passed away at her home in New York on Sunday, April 21 at the age of 53. The singer who is most known with song ”I Touch Myself” with her band in the 1990s lost battle against breast cancer and multiple sclerosis.

Russell Crowe who played her son in 1988′s movie “Blood Brothers” wrote on his Twitter, “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.”

Former Divinyl drummer and Amphlett’s husband of 14 years, Charley Drayton, said in a statement, “Chrissy’s light burns so very brightly. Hers was a life of passion and creativity; she always lived it to the fullest.” Australian Recording Industry Association’s (ARIA) added, “With her force of character and vocal strength she paved the way for strong, sexy, outspoken women.” According to Drayton, Amphlett hoped the song ”I Touch Myself” would be reminder for women to perform breast exam regularly.

© AceShowbiz.com

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