Aussie stars pay tribute to rock legend
Australian musicians are honouring the late rock legend Paul Woseen, bassist for The Screaming Jets, who died at the age of 56.
“It is with broken hearts that we tell you our beloved brother in rock Paul Woseen has passed away today,” the band wrote in an announcement on social media.
“We are shattered, dealing with the loss of Paully, he was a brilliant shining light in all of our lives.”
Woseen, along with frontman Dave Gleeson, were the only original members remaining in the pub rock band that exploded out of Newcastle and achieved global success in the early ‘90s with their debut album All For One (1991) and singles Better and Helping Hand.
“Our hearts are with Paully’s family, and we ask that you respect our need for privacy at this time,” the band’s statement continued.
The Screaming Jets are due to release their ninth studio album Professional Misconduct on October 6.
It’s been preceded by the singles Nothing To Lose and Second Chance, which were co-written by Woseen.
Woseen’s cause of death has not been confirmed.
Tributes for the late rocker flowed in from fellow musicians and Aussie stars, including singer Nat Bassingthwaighte and actor Shane Jacobson.
“So sad to hear of Pauly’s passing today he was such a great fella … sending love and strength to all,” wrote Jon Stevens of Noiseworks on Instagram.
The Living End guitarist Chris Cheney also paid his condolences to the band.
“Very sorry to hear this,” he wrote.
The Black Sorrows also posted on social media sharing their “sincere condolences” to “Paul’s family and friends”.
Devastated fans also took to social media to pay homage to Woseen.
“This is so sad. My condolences to all Paul’s family and friends you are a piece of Australian rock history, thank you Paul for your awesome contribution to the music of my time, such a monumental loss,” one heartbroken fan wrote.
Another music fan said Paul and his band had played a huge part in his life.
“I’ve grown up with your songs Pauly, most influential band in my life since I was a pup and you were the heart of it. Rock on in peace Pauly.”
The Screaming Jets are due to kick off a four-month nationwide tour in November to promote their new album, but it remains to be seen whether it will go ahead now they have lost the man described as the “backbone” of the band.