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Byron Shire
March 27, 2024

Mullum Music Festival performer dies

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Respected musician James Cruickshank has died of cancer. Photo courtesy Vitamin Records
Respected musician James Cruickshank has died of cancer. Photo courtesy Vitamin Records

Mullum Music Festival director Glenn Wright has paid tribute to James Cruickshank who has died of cancer.

James had played the festival a number of times and was looking forward to doing so again this year.

One of the founders of the iconic Australian band The Cruel Sea, James carved out a successful solo careers with his own particular bent of original music.

Despite battling cancer James was keen to have a project to work on and asked Glenn if he could perform at this year’s festival – but it was not to be.

Glenn said he admired James’ brave resolve.

‘He was bored with the health treatments and wanted a music project to keep his mind interested, something creative. He asked if he could do a spot at the Mullum Music Festival, but that he might not be able to make it,’ Glenn said.

‘I said sure and no problems: if he had to pull out, people would understand and who cares if they don’t! ‘

Glenn said James played Mullum Festival as a solo artist twice and as a band member many times with different groups.

‘Last week James emailed to say he wasn’t able to play the festival as he didn’t have the stamina. He said he hoped it was the best festival yet.

‘We were in touch again on Wednesday and he wished us the best.’

Glenn described James as ‘a wonderful songwriter with original quirky arrangements in all his solo albums, and his vocals were becoming more and more unique and lived in. ‘

‘James had no fear in recording and went in many different directions when making his albums. He was an artist and I think that’s what he wanted to be.’


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