Molly Meldrum, born on January 29, 1943, in Australia, is a renowned music journalist and producer who has made a significant impact on the Australian music industry. His journey in the music business began when he started working as a roadie for the band The Groop. This early experience laid the foundation for his successful career in music production and journalism.
Meldrum's talent for music journalism was recognized early on when he started writing for the popular music publication, Go-Set. For nearly a decade, he contributed insightful articles and reviews that shaped the pop music scene in Australia. His writing style was engaging and informative, earning him a loyal following among music enthusiasts.
Meldrum's crowning achievement in his journalism career was the creation of the iconic music TV show, Countdown. As the creator and host of the program, he brought the latest music trends and performances to audiences across Australia. Countdown quickly became a cultural phenomenon, garnering a large and devoted fan base.
Aside from his work in journalism, Meldrum also made a name for himself as a talented music producer. One of his most notable productions was Russell Morris' hit single, "The Real Thing." The production of this single cost $10,000, making it the most expensive single ever produced in Australia up to that point. Meldrum's keen ear for music and production skills contributed to the success of many artists.
Meldrum comes from a talented family, with his younger brother Brian being a former sports journalist and his youngest brother Robert being a director and actor. The Meldrum family's creative genes have been evident in their various pursuits and accomplishments. Meldrum's close friendship with Skyhooks guitarist Red Symons also highlights his ability to form lasting connections in the music industry.
Molly Meldrum's contributions to Australian music cannot be overstated. His groundbreaking work in journalism and production has left a lasting impact on the industry. Through Countdown, he introduced audiences to new music and artists, shaping musical tastes and trends for generations to come. Meldrum's passion for music and dedication to his craft have solidified his place as a true icon in the Australian music scene.