In a somber announcement that has resonated deeply within the music community, Martin Phillipps, the influential founder of the iconic New Zealand rock band the Chills, has passed away at the age of 61. The news was shared via the band’s social media channels, where it was stated, “It is with broken hearts the family and friends of Martin Phillipps wish to advise Martin has died unexpectedly. The family ask for privacy at this time. Funeral arrangements will be advised in due course.”
Phillipps was a pivotal figure in the music scene, establishing the Chills in 1980 alongside his sister Rachel Phillipps, who played keyboards, and a lineup that included Jane Dodd on bass, guitarist Peter Gutteridge, and drummer Alan Haig. The band quickly captured the hearts of fans in New Zealand and later expanded their influence, cultivating a devoted cult following across Europe and the United States.
Known for their distinctive sound, the Chills produced several hits that have become anthems for many. Tracks such as “Pink Frost,” “Heavenly Pop Hit,” “I Love My Leather Jacket,” and “Kaleidoscope World” showcased their unique blend of melodic rock and lyrical depth. Their 1990 album, “Submarine Bells,” was particularly well-received, with the British music publication Melody Maker describing it as “a magical experience.”
Despite their early success, the band’s trajectory faced challenges in the late 1990s, particularly with the folding of their US label, which hindered their momentum. Reflecting on this tumultuous period in a 2019 interview with RNZ, Phillipps remarked, “No one foresaw the impact of the digital revolution, of massive changes in music, with Nirvana, with hip-hop, and all sorts of things, that we could so quickly become redundant and old-fashioned.”
During these years, Phillipps faced significant personal struggles, including battles with drug addiction, alcoholism, and health issues stemming from hepatitis C. He candidly shared his experiences, revealing how these challenges impacted his life and career. “It was after that, retreating to Dunedin, tail between my legs, everyone saying, ‘Oh you gave it a good go, time to get a real job,’ all sorts of things conspired, but there was some sort of breakdown, mental breakdown involved there,” he stated.
In a poignant 2014 interview, Phillipps discussed the gravity of his health condition, explaining how having hepatitis C altered his perception of life and mortality. “I’m on the list for some of the new trial drugs, but in the meantime I’m up to stage four of the disease. Stage five is cancer. So it’s already cirrhosis of the liver, and that means I really don’t know how long I’ve got,” he shared, highlighting the relentless nature of his battle.
Despite these hardships, the Chills continued to create music, releasing “Silver Bullets,” their first studio album in years, which marked a significant return to form for the band. Their ability to resonate with fans, both old and new, speaks volumes about Phillipps’ songwriting talent and the band’s enduring legacy.
As news of Phillipps’ passing spreads, tributes from fans and fellow musicians are pouring in, celebrating his contributions to music and the indelible mark he left on the indie rock genre. The Chills, with their evocative melodies and poignant lyrics, will forever remain a cherished part of New Zealand’s musical heritage, thanks in large part to Martin Phillipps’ vision and artistry.
His legacy will continue to inspire future generations of musicians and fans alike, ensuring that his music lives on in the hearts of many around the world.
