Rock musician Gary Anderson, better known by the moniker Angry Anderson, has passed away at the age of 79. The late musician was best known as the frontman of Australian rock band Rose Tattoo.
The band confirmed his passing, and in a statement, they said: “It is with great sadness we announce the passing of Gary ‘Angry’ Anderson on the eve of Monday 21 September 2026, surrounded by his loved ones here in Australia. Angry was a devoted father, and a much-loved member of his friends, bandmates and the wider music and entertainment community.
“His loss will be deeply felt by all those who knew and loved him both here in Australia and overseas. The family and band members are asking for privacy at this difficult time and will not be giving interviews. We kindly ask that their wishes are respected as they come to terms with this devastating loss and take [the] time they need to grieve.”
The statement concluded by saying: “We thank everyone for their prayers and messages of love and continued support. With love, The Anderson family and Rose Tattoo Band. Stay young, grow strong.”
The band, which formed in 1976, went on a 50th anniversary tour earlier this year, but last month, they were forced to cancel the European leg of their tour after Angry was admitted to hospital in Germany.
At the time, they said: “Thank you from the bottom of our hearts for all the love, messages and support you have already sent Angry and the band.”
The band were famous for hits such as Bad Boy for Love, We Can’t Be Beaten and Suddenly. The latter song was used as the soundtrack to Scott and Charlene’s wedding in Neighbours, with the lovebirds being played by Jason Donovan and Kylie Minogue respectively.
The episode was broadcast in 1987 in Australia, before airing the following year in the UK. Following the release of the episode, the song ended up at No. 3 in the charts.
Tributes to Angry Anderson
Several Australian artists have paid tribute to the late singer. Cold Chisel frontman Jimmy Barnes said: “We lost a good man this week. Angry Anderson sang from his heart with power and conviction. But don’t let that tough outside fool you.
© Getty Images“He was a caring soul who loved his family, cared for his friends and stood up for the downtrodden. As a Rock’n’nroll singer, he was as good as it gets. Rock in Peace my dear friend.”
Meanwhile, Skid Row’s Sebastian Bach penned: “Well you’ve lost a true one. They don’t make them like Angry Anderson anymore. You’re not gonna see the likes of Angry anymore. You left us too soon but that’s because you were too good for us. The most gifted vocalist lyricist performer up until the day you died.”
Read the full article here
