Michael Hutchence’s bandmate dead at 66
Iconic Australian musician Ian ‘Ollie’ Olsen has died at the age of 66 after a long battle with the neurological disease Multiple System Atrophy.
The Melbourne-born artist has been active in Australia’s vibrant music scene for five decades and was once in a band with INXS star Michael Hutchence called Max Q.
His family confirmed the news of his death in a heartbreaking Facebook post, writing: ‘It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Ollie Olsen.
‘Ollie has fought long and hard, like the Viking he was against multiple system atrophy since 2019 when he first started experiencing symptoms.’
They added that Ollie died peacefully in his sleep on Tuesday surrounded by his family in Melbourne.
‘He passed away peacefully in his sleep under the care of the Royal Melbourne Hospital, with his wife by his side. We ask for privacy during this difficult time,” they wrote in a statement.
His death comes just a week after he was inducted into the Music Victoria Hall of Fame in recognition of his contribution to the industry.
Olsen met Michael Hutchence in the 1980s when they collaborated on the musical score for the film Dogs in Space.
Iconic Australian musician Ian ‘Ollie’ Olsen has died at the age of 66 after a long battle with the neurological disease Multiple System Atrophy
The pair later formed the electronic and rock band Max Q.
Max Q released their only self-titled album in 1989, which was well received for its experimental sound.
It blended Hutchence’s signature vocals with Olsen’s moody production.
Olsen was also known for his involvement in the Australian punk and electronic scenes, performing in several other Australian cult bands including Whirlywind.
The Melbourne-born artist had been active in Australia’s vibrant music scene for five decades and was once in a band with INXS star Michael Hutchence called Max Q. (Pictured with Hutchence in 1990)
He later became a film and TV composer, writing the score for several cult Australian TV shows and films including Head On, starring Alex Dimitriades, Raw FM and The Loved Ones.
Olsen’s work composing Head On was nominated for Best Original Music Score at the 1998 Australian Film Institute Awards.
He is survived by his wife Jayne.
Olsen’s family confirmed the news of his death in a heartbreaking Facebook post