Renée Geyer: Australia’s Queen of Soul at 70

Renée Geyer, one of Australia’s most revered and distinctive vocal talents, passed away at the age of 70. Known as the “Queen of Soul,” Geyer’s husky, powerful voice made her a standout figure in the Australian music scene and beyond. Born in Melbourne to Hungarian Jewish immigrants, her career spanned more than five decades, characterized by her ability to traverse genres from jazz and soul to R&B and rock. Geyer’s hits like “Say I Love You” and “It’s a Man’s Man’s World” solidified her status as a musical powerhouse.

Despite facing numerous health challenges, Geyer continued to perform and record music up until her final days, leaving behind a legacy of resilience, passion, and groundbreaking achievements in an industry often dominated by her male counterparts. Her influence extended beyond music, as she was also a vocal advocate for artists’ rights and women in music, paving the way for future generations of female artists in Australia and globally.