Thursday, September 23, 2026 - Australian rock icon Gary “Angry” Anderson has died at 79, prompting an outpouring of grief from friends, fellow musicians and fans.
Anderson, the longtime frontman of Rose Tattoo, died on Monday surrounded by loved ones in Australia, weeks after suffering a cardiac arrest while on the band’s European farewell tour.
His family and bandmates described him as a devoted father and much-loved friend whose loss would be deeply felt across the music community.
Among the most emotional tributes came from Jimmy Barnes, who remembered Anderson as a close friend with a caring side behind his tough rock persona.
Barnes wrote that they had “lost a good man” and praised Anderson for singing with power and conviction while caring deeply for his family, friends and people facing hardship.
He also highlighted Anderson’s bond with his son Jackie James Barnes, who played drums with Rose Tattoo after Anderson took him under his wing.
Jackie James Barnes also shared his grief, describing working and touring with Anderson as one of the great privileges of his life. He remembered the singer as one of rock’s greatest frontmen while emphasising his kindness away from the stage.
Tributes have also come from Slash, Sebastian Bach, Marcia Hines and other figures from the Australian and international music scenes, underscoring the impact Anderson had on those who knew him personally and professionally.
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