The Australian music scene is mourning the loss of Glenn Keating, a highly respected multi-instrumentalist, producer, and sound designer whose creative contributions touched numerous facets of the industry. Keating, known for his work with acclaimed acts such as Jape and The Redneck Manifesto, as well as his roles as a touring musician with Bell X1 and HousePlants, and his solo project BoNs Synth Ensemble, passed away peacefully on March 4th at Beaumont Hospital in Dublin. He had been battling Stage IV bowel cancer, a diagnosis he received in 2020.
Keating’s passing has sent ripples of sadness through the music community, with many artists and fans sharing heartfelt tributes. His talent and dedication were evident in every project he undertook, leaving an indelible mark on the soundscapes he helped create.
A Legacy of Collaboration and Innovation
Glenn Keating was a musician’s musician, a collaborator who brought a unique blend of intuition, technical skill, and infectious positivity to his work. His journey with the band Bell X1, which began around 2015 during the recording of their album Arms, saw him become an integral part of their live performances. Paul Noonan of Bell X1 reflected on Keating’s impact, describing him as “a thoughtful, funny, musically intuitive and gifted dude.”
Noonan further elaborated on the profound connection forged through making music together. “Making music with others – from the giddy rehearsal set-up chats and nerding-out over new gear, to the moments of collective transcendence, is a profound thing,” he stated. This sentiment highlights the deep bond Keating shared with his fellow musicians, a bond that transcended the creative process and extended into genuine friendship.
Even as he faced the immense challenges of his illness, Keating’s commitment to music and his positive spirit remained undimmed. He continued to contribute his “infectious positive energy” to the band, navigating multiple rounds of chemotherapy and treatment with remarkable resilience. His willingness to openly share his journey, not only for personal catharsis but also to raise awareness and funds for cancer charities, was a testament to his character.
‘Spacewalk’ – A Tribute to Resilience
In recognition of Keating’s strength and courage, Bell X1 released a special video for their track ‘Spacewalk’ in April, coinciding with Daffodil Day. This poignant visual was conceived as a tribute to Keating’s personal journey, a musical and artistic expression of their love and admiration for him. The song and its accompanying video serve as a powerful reminder of the human spirit’s capacity to endure and inspire, even in the face of adversity.
The creation of ‘Spacewalk’ was described by Bell X1 as “an attempt to speak to this, to our love for Glenn.” It encapsulates the deep respect and affection the band held for their bandmate, celebrating his unwavering dedication to his craft and his courageous fight.
Advocacy and the ‘Squeaky Wheel’
Beyond his musical endeavours, Glenn Keating was also a passionate advocate for cancer awareness and early detection. Alongside his brothers Tony and Cormac, he spearheaded the ‘Coast 2 Coast Cycle’ campaign, successfully raising nearly €14,000 for the Irish Cancer Society.
In an interview with the Irish Cancer Society last year, Keating shared invaluable advice for others facing health challenges. He emphasised the importance of self-advocacy, likening it to the adage, “the squeaky wheel gets the oil.”
Keating’s Advice for Patients:
- Be an advocate for yourself: Don’t hesitate to speak up about your health concerns.
- Ask questions: If you don’t understand something, ask for clarification.
- Push for answers: Don’t be afraid to seek further information or second opinions.
- Early detection is key: Catching illnesses early can make a significant difference in treatment outcomes.
- Don’t be afraid to be the ‘squeaky wheel’: Your voice and your needs are important.
This powerful message underscores Keating’s desire to empower others and to highlight the critical role of proactive engagement in healthcare.
Glenn Keating’s legacy extends far beyond his musical achievements. He will be remembered for his immense talent, his unwavering positivity, his dedication to his craft, and his inspiring advocacy. He is survived by his wife, Leda, and his sons, Arlo and Llewyn, who undoubtedly carry forward his spirit. The Irish music community, and indeed all who were touched by his work and his story, will deeply miss him.
