Celebrated Aboriginal musician, songwriter and artist Archie Roach has died at the age of 66 after a long illness.
His sons released a statement saying they were "heartbroken" to announce the death of the Gunditjmara (Kirrae Whurrong/Djab Wurrung), Bundjalung Senior Elder, songman and storyteller.
Amos and Eban Roach say Uncle Archie died surrounded by his family and loved ones at Warrnambool Base Hospital in Victoria.
"We thank all the staff who have cared for Archie over the past month," his sons said in their statement.
"Archie wanted all of his many fans to know how much he loves you for supporting him along the way.
"We are so proud of everything our dad achieved in his remarkable life. He was a healer and unifying force.
"His music brought people together."
A private ceremony will follow.
His family have asked the media to respect their privacy.
Uncle Archie's sons have given permission for his name, image and music to be used, so that his legacy will continue to inspire.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese took to Twitter to mourn the loss of a "brilliant talent" who was a "national truth teller".
Mr Albanese said in a subsequent tweet that Uncle Archie's music came "from a well of trauma and pain" and his "music and his indomitable spirit" would live on.
Uncle Archie's many awards and legacy
Archie Roach first became famous after his release of the song Took the Children Away featured on his debut album Charcoal lane in 1990.
He went on to win numerous awards, including a Deadly Award for a Lifetime Contribution to Healing the Stolen Generations in 2013.
Uncle Archie was inducted into the ARIA hall of fame in 2020.
As a performer, he has opened shows for international artists like Bob Dylan, Tracy Chapman and Joan Armatrading.
He was born at Mooroopna in Victoria and was named after an Aboriginal word referring to a bend in the Goulburn River.
Uncle Archie and his wife Ruby Hunter moved to Melbourne in the late 1980s after forming a band with other Indigenous musicians.
After Ruby died in 2010, Uncle Archie suffered a stroke and endured other health problems, including lung cancer.
Despite having a lung removed, he continued to perform with the help of an oxygen tube.
Visit ABC iview and ABC listen, where you’ll find special interviews and performances from legendary artist Archie Roach. From Anh’s Brush With Fame to Conversations, AWAYE!, Like A Version, and a Blak Out Tribute to Uncle Archie Roach.
