Music legend Frank Ifield passed away peacefully in his sleep on Saturday night at the age of 86. The news of his passing was shared by his friend, music historian and journalist Glenn A. Baker, on Facebook. Ifield is survived by his wife, Carole Wood, and his two children from his marriage to ex-wife Gillian Bowden.
“I just took a call from David Ifield, telling me that his brother FRANK IFIELD peacefully passed on this Saturday night, at age 86,” wrote Baker, who also posted photos of Ifield with several notable musicians including Alan Lancaster, Eric Burdon and John Rowles.
“There is so much to be said about this remarkable man, who had four number ones in Britain, three of them before the Beatles.
“I Remember You became an indelible hit all around the world and a perfect signature song. It topped the UK charts for 7 weeks.
“This is not the time to say any more than my thoughts are with Frank’s brothers and his wife Carole and to say how fortunate I was to see him earlier this year. I’m still gathering my thoughts.”
Who was Frank Ifield?
Originally born in England, Ifield grew up in Australia, where his passion for country music led him to start his career at just 13 years old.
His career faced a major challenge in 1986 when he was diagnosed with pneumonia. Surgery to remove part of his lung damaged his vocal cords, affecting his ability to sing and yodel for years.
By the age of 19, Ifield had released 44 records, becoming the top recording artist in Australia, New Zealand, and Tasmania.
During this time, The Beatles opened for him, which helped boost their exposure and fanbase. Taking a significant career step, Ifield moved to London in 1959, where he achieved tremendous success.