Martin Phillipps, lead singer and songwriter of legendary Dunedin band The Chills, died unexpectedly on Sunday, July 29th. Revered as an icon for crafting the legendary New Zealand anthem ‘Pink Frost’, the singer was a beloved local figure. At age 15, Phillipps began his music career with one of the first New Zealand punk bands ‘The Same’ in the ‘80s. He also worked with fellow Dunedin band The Clean on tour. Students might recognise him from the song ‘Tally Ho!’ which has been used in University of Otago advertisements.
Phillipps’ legacy lives on through his music, with seven studio albums by The Chills, as well as murals, including the electrical box on Great King St that celebrates the classic song ‘I Love My Leather Jacket’. “It can’t be underestimated the influence Martin’s music has had on Dunedin and Aotearoa music, as well as alternative jangle pop music,” says Radio One Station Manager Kristina Simons. Phillips will be remembered as a legend of the Dunedin Sound.
– Jordan Irvine, Local Produce columnist