25 Most Famous Australian Musicians of All Time

Australia has produced a remarkable array of musical talent that has left an indelible mark on the global music scene. From the hard-hitting rock anthems of AC/DC to the pop sensations of Kylie Minogue and the genre-defying sounds of Tame Impala, Australian musicians have consistently pushed boundaries and captured the hearts of audiences worldwide.

This rich and diverse musical landscape spans across genres, reflecting the unique cultural fabric of Australia.

In this article, we’ll explore the careers of some of the most famous Australian musicians, celebrating their contributions to music and their enduring legacy on the world stage.

25 Most Influential Famous Australian Musicians You Need to Hear

These musicians and bands have achieved international success and are celebrated for their contributions to the music industry, both in Australia and around the world.

Here’s a list of 25 famous Australian musicians who have made significant contributions to various genres of music:

#1 AC/DC

AC/DC, formed in 1973 by brothers Malcolm and Angus Young, is one of the most iconic rock bands in history, known for their high-energy performances and hard-hitting sound. Originally hailing from Sydney, Australia, the band quickly gained a reputation for their powerful guitar riffs, pounding rhythms, and rebellious lyrics. Their 1979 album Highway to Hell marked their breakthrough into the international spotlight, but it was 1980’s Back in Black that solidified their status as rock legends. This album, recorded after the tragic death of original lead singer Bon Scott and featuring new frontman Brian Johnson, became one of the best-selling albums of all time.

AC/DC’s influence on rock music is immense, with their straightforward, no-nonsense approach to rock and roll serving as a blueprint for countless bands that followed. With hits like “Thunderstruck,” “You Shook Me All Night Long,” and “Hells Bells,” AC/DC’s music continues to resonate with audiences around the world, making them one of Australia’s greatest musical exports.

#2 INXS

INXS, formed in 1977 in Sydney, is a renowned rock band that achieved global fame with their unique blend of new wave, rock, and pop. Led by charismatic frontman Michael Hutchence, INXS became one of the most successful Australian bands of the 1980s and 1990s. Their breakthrough came with the release of Shabooh Shoobah in 1982, featuring hits like “Don’t Change” and “The One Thing.” However, it was their 1987 album Kick that propelled them to international superstardom, with singles such as “Need You Tonight,” “New Sensation,” and “Never Tear Us Apart” dominating the charts.

INXS’s sound was characterized by a mix of catchy hooks, danceable rhythms, and Hutchence’s sultry vocals, which captivated audiences worldwide. Despite Hutchence’s tragic death in 1997, INXS’s legacy endures, and they remain one of Australia’s most iconic and influential bands, continuing to inspire musicians across various genres.

#3 Kylie Minogue

Kylie Minogue, born in 1968 in Melbourne, is a pop superstar and one of Australia’s most successful and enduring musical exports. Kylie first gained fame as an actress on the popular Australian soap opera Neighbours before launching her music career in the late 1980s. Her debut single, a cover of “The Loco-Motion,” became a massive hit, and she quickly followed it up with a string of successful albums and singles, including the iconic “I Should Be So Lucky” and “Can’t Get You Out of My Head.” Over the years, Kylie has reinvented herself numerous times, embracing various musical styles from dance-pop to disco.

Kylie Minogue’s career has spanned over three decades, during which she has sold millions of records worldwide, won numerous awards, and earned the title of “Princess of Pop.” Her ability to stay relevant in the ever-changing pop landscape has made her a global icon and a beloved figure in the music industry.

#4 Sia

Sia, born Sia Furler in 1975 in Adelaide, is a singer, songwriter, and producer known for her distinctive voice and emotionally charged music. Sia began her career in the mid-1990s as a member of the acid jazz band Crisp before launching her solo career with the album OnlySee in 1997. However, it wasn’t until the release of her 2014 album 1000 Forms of Fear that she achieved mainstream success, propelled by the global hit “Chandelier.” Sia’s unique vocal style, combined with her ability to write powerful, relatable lyrics, quickly made her a household name.

In addition to her solo work, Sia is also a highly sought-after songwriter, having penned hits for artists such as Rihanna, Beyoncé, and Adele. Her decision to often conceal her face in public and during performances has added an air of mystery to her persona, but it’s her talent and artistry that have solidified her as one of Australia’s most influential contemporary musicians.

#5 Nick Cave

Nick Cave, born in 1957 in Warracknabeal, Victoria, is a singer, songwriter, author, and actor, best known as the frontman of Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds. Cave’s music is characterized by its dark, brooding lyrics, blending elements of rock, punk, blues, and gothic influences. He first gained attention with the post-punk band The Birthday Party before forming Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds in 1983. The band’s debut album, From Her to Eternity, set the tone for Cave’s career, with its raw energy and lyrical exploration of love, death, and existential themes.

Over the decades, Nick Cave has built a reputation as one of the most enigmatic and critically acclaimed artists in the music world. Albums like Murder Ballads, The Boatman’s Call, and Push the Sky Away have cemented his status as a master storyteller and a significant figure in alternative music. Cave’s influence extends beyond music, as he has also written novels, screenplays, and acted in films, making him a true renaissance man of the arts.

#6 Tame Impala

Tame Impala, the psychedelic music project led by multi-instrumentalist Kevin Parker, has become one of the most acclaimed and influential acts of the 21st century. Formed in 2007 in Perth, Tame Impala’s music is a modern take on 1960s and 1970s psychedelic rock, characterized by lush, swirling sounds, introspective lyrics, and innovative production techniques. Their debut album, Innerspeaker (2010), received widespread critical acclaim, but it was the follow-up album Lonerism (2012) that brought Parker and his project global recognition, earning them accolades and a dedicated fanbase.

Tame Impala’s 2015 album Currents saw Parker further exploring synth-pop and electronic influences, resulting in hits like “Let It Happen” and “The Less I Know the Better.” Tame Impala’s music has been praised for its creativity, emotional depth, and Parker’s meticulous production, making it one of the most significant and successful Australian musical projects of recent times.

#7 Keith Urban

Keith Urban, born in 1967 in Whangarei, New Zealand, and raised in Australia, is a country music singer, songwriter, and guitarist who has achieved international fame, particularly in the United States. Urban began his music career in Australia in the early 1990s before moving to Nashville, Tennessee, where he quickly established himself as a leading figure in the country music scene. His self-titled American debut album in 1999 produced several hit singles, including “But for the Grace of God,” which topped the US country charts. Urban’s blend of traditional country music with rock and pop influences has won him widespread acclaim and a large fanbase.

Over the years, Keith Urban has released numerous successful albums, including Golden Road, Be Here, and Ripcord, earning multiple Grammy Awards, Academy of Country Music Awards, and Country Music Association Awards. In addition to his music career, Urban has also served as a judge on the television show American Idol, further cementing his status as a major figure in the music industry.

#8 Gotye

Gotye, born Wouter De Backer in 1980 in Bruges, Belgium, and raised in Australia, is a singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist best known for his global hit “Somebody That I Used to Know.” Gotye’s music blends indie pop, electronic, and experimental sounds, creating a distinctive style that resonated with a wide audience. His breakthrough came with the 2011 album Making Mirrors, which featured “Somebody That I Used to Know” and catapulted him to international fame. The song topped charts in over 20 countries, won multiple awards, including a Grammy for Record of the Year, and became one of the best-selling digital singles of all time.

Despite his massive success, Gotye has remained a relatively private and enigmatic figure, choosing not to pursue a conventional pop career. Instead, he has focused on artistic projects, including his involvement in the experimental rock band The Basics. Gotye’s work continues to be celebrated for its innovation and emotional depth.

#9 Olivia Newton-John

Olivia Newton-John, born in 1948 in Cambridge, England, and raised in Melbourne, Australia, is a pop and country music singer, actress, and philanthropist who became a global superstar in the 1970s and 1980s. Newton-John first gained attention in the early 1970s with a series of country and pop hits, including “If Not for You” and “Let Me Be There.” Her career skyrocketed with the release of the hit single “Physical” in 1981, which became one of the biggest hits of the decade. However, she is perhaps best known for her role as Sandy in the 1978 film Grease, which featured hit songs like “You’re the One That I Want” and “Hopelessly Devoted to You.”

Throughout her career, Newton-John has sold over 100 million records, making her one of the best-selling music artists of all time. She has won numerous awards, including four Grammy Awards, and has been a prominent advocate for environmental and health causes, including breast cancer awareness. Olivia Newton-John remains an enduring icon in both the music and film industries.

#10 Midnight Oil

Midnight Oil, formed in 1972 in Sydney, is one of Australia’s most iconic rock bands, known for their powerful music and strong political messages. Led by frontman Peter Garrett, Midnight Oil’s music combines elements of rock, punk, and new wave with lyrics that often address social and environmental issues, particularly those affecting Indigenous Australians. Their 1987 album Diesel and Dust is considered their magnum opus, featuring the international hit “Beds Are Burning,” which became an anthem for Indigenous land rights. The album’s success brought Midnight Oil global recognition and solidified their reputation as one of the most socially conscious bands of their time.

Throughout their career, Midnight Oil released numerous successful albums and became known for their energetic live performances. Peter Garrett’s involvement in politics, including his tenure as a member of the Australian Parliament, further highlighted the band’s commitment to activism. Midnight Oil’s influence extends beyond music, as they continue to inspire both musicians and activists worldwide.

#11 Men at Work

Men at Work, formed in 1979 in Melbourne, is an Australian rock band that gained international fame in the early 1980s with their unique blend of rock, reggae, and new wave. The band’s debut album, Business as Usual (1981), was a massive success, featuring hit singles “Down Under” and “Who Can It Be Now?”, both of which topped charts worldwide. “Down Under” became an unofficial anthem for Australia, known for its catchy tune and humorous lyrics that celebrate Australian culture. The album won a Grammy Award for Best New Artist in 1983, making Men at Work the first Australian band to achieve such a feat.

Men at Work’s follow-up album, Cargo (1983), also enjoyed success, but internal tensions and changing musical trends led to the band’s decline in the mid-1980s. Despite their relatively short-lived career, Men at Work left a lasting impact on the global music scene, and their songs remain popular to this day.

#12 John Farnham

John Farnham, born in 1949 in Dagenham, England, and raised in Australia, is a legendary singer and one of the most successful solo artists in Australian music history. Farnham first rose to fame in the 1960s as a teen pop idol with hits like “Sadie (The Cleaning Lady),” but his career reached new heights in the 1980s with the release of his album Whispering Jack (1986). The album’s lead single, “You’re the Voice,” became an anthem and remains one of the most iconic songs in Australian music. Whispering Jack became the highest-selling album in Australian history at the time, cementing Farnham’s status as a national treasure.

Farnham’s powerful voice and dynamic stage presence have made him a beloved figure in Australia, and he has continued to enjoy a successful career, with multiple hit albums and sell-out tours. He has received numerous awards and honors, including induction into the ARIA Hall of Fame, and remains an enduring symbol of Australian music.

#13 The Bee Gees

The Bee Gees, formed in 1958 by brothers Barry, Robin, and Maurice Gibb, are one of the most successful and influential groups in the history of popular music. Although originally from the Isle of Man and raised in Manchester, England, the Gibb brothers moved to Australia in 1958, where they began their music career. The Bee Gees first achieved success in the 1960s with a series of pop hits, but it was their transformation into disco icons in the 1970s that cemented their legacy. The soundtrack to Saturday Night Fever (1977), featuring hits like “Stayin’ Alive,” “Night Fever,” and “How Deep Is Your Love,” became one of the best-selling albums of all time.

The Bee Gees’ unique harmonies, falsetto vocals, and songwriting prowess made them one of the defining acts of the disco era, but their influence extended far beyond, with a career that spanned five decades. They have sold over 220 million records worldwide, making them one of the best-selling music artists of all time. The Bee Gees’ impact on music is immeasurable, and they remain icons in the world of pop and disco.

#14 Crowded House

Crowded House, formed in 1985 in Melbourne, is a rock band known for their melodic pop songs and sophisticated songwriting. Led by New Zealand-born singer and songwriter Neil Finn, Crowded House achieved international success with their self-titled debut album in 1986, which featured the hit singles “Don’t Dream It’s Over” and “Something So Strong.” “Don’t Dream It’s Over” became an international hit, reaching the top of the charts in several countries and becoming one of the band’s signature songs. Crowded House’s music is characterized by its catchy melodies, introspective lyrics, and Finn’s distinctive voice.

Over the years, Crowded House has released several critically acclaimed albums, including Temple of Low Men (1988) and Woodface (1991), and they have maintained a loyal fanbase worldwide. Despite lineup changes and a hiatus in the early 2000s, the band has continued to tour and release new music, solidifying their place as one of Australia’s most beloved and enduring bands.

#15 Silverchair

Silverchair, formed in 1992 in Newcastle, New South Wales, was an Australian rock band that gained international fame as teenagers with their debut album Frogstomp (1995). The album, featuring hits like “Tomorrow” and “Pure Massacre,” showcased the band’s grunge-inspired sound and raw energy, drawing comparisons to bands like Nirvana and Pearl Jam. Silverchair quickly became one of the most successful Australian bands of the 1990s, and their subsequent albums, including Freak Show (1997) and Neon Ballroom (1999), demonstrated the band’s growth and evolution in sound, incorporating elements of alternative rock, orchestral arrangements, and electronic music.

Led by frontman Daniel Johns, Silverchair continued to push musical boundaries with their later albums, including Diorama (2002) and Young Modern (2007), before going on an indefinite hiatus in 2011. Silverchair’s impact on Australian music is significant, and their innovative approach to rock music has left a lasting legacy in the industry.

#16 Paul Kelly

Paul Kelly, born in 1955 in Adelaide, is one of Australia’s most respected singer-songwriters, known for his storytelling prowess and his ability to capture the essence of Australian life in his music. Kelly’s career spans over four decades, during which he has released numerous albums, written songs across a wide range of genres, and collaborated with various artists. His music often explores themes of love, loss, social justice, and Australian history, and songs like “To Her Door,” “Dumb Things,” and “From Little Things Big Things Grow” have become anthems in Australia.

Kelly’s influence extends beyond his recordings, as he is also a prolific performer and has contributed to the soundtracks of films and television shows. He has received numerous awards and honors, including induction into the ARIA Hall of Fame, and is widely regarded as a national treasure in Australia. Paul Kelly’s music continues to resonate with audiences, making him one of the most important and enduring figures in Australian music.

#17 Cold Chisel

Cold Chisel, formed in 1973 in Adelaide, is one of Australia’s most iconic rock bands, known for their hard-hitting sound and powerful live performances. Led by charismatic frontman Jimmy Barnes, Cold Chisel’s music blends elements of rock, blues, and pub rock, and they became one of the biggest bands in Australia during the late 1970s and early 1980s. Their 1980 album East is considered a classic, featuring hits like “Cheap Wine” and “Choirgirl,” and it cemented their status as rock legends in Australia. The band’s anthemic song “Khe Sanh” has become one of the most beloved and enduring Australian songs, often regarded as the country’s unofficial national anthem.

Cold Chisel disbanded in 1983 but has reunited several times for tours and new recordings, maintaining their popularity and influence in the Australian music scene. Their legacy is defined by their ability to connect with working-class audiences and their role in shaping the sound of Australian rock music.

#18 Delta Goodrem

Delta Goodrem, born in 1984 in Sydney, is a singer, songwriter, and actress who rose to fame as one of Australia’s most successful pop artists. Goodrem first gained national attention with her role on the popular Australian TV show Neighbours, but it was her debut album Innocent Eyes (2003) that catapulted her to stardom. The album, which included hits like “Born to Try” and “Lost Without You,” became one of the highest-selling debut albums in Australian history and earned her numerous awards, including several ARIA Awards. Goodrem’s music is known for its blend of pop, ballads, and a touch of classical influence, showcasing her powerful vocals and emotive songwriting.

Over the years, Goodrem has released multiple successful albums, solidifying her place as one of Australia’s most beloved pop stars. In addition to her music career, she has served as a coach on the Australian version of The Voice and has been involved in various charitable activities, further endearing her to the Australian public.

#19 Jessica Mauboy

Jessica Mauboy, born in 1989 in Darwin, Northern Territory, is a singer, songwriter, and actress who first gained national fame as a contestant on the fourth season of Australian Idol in 2006. Despite finishing as the runner-up, Mauboy quickly secured a record deal and released her debut album Been Waiting in 2008, which featured hit singles like “Burn” and “Running Back.” The album was a commercial success, earning her several ARIA Awards and establishing her as one of Australia’s leading pop and R&B artists. Mauboy’s music is characterized by its catchy melodies, strong vocal performances, and incorporation of contemporary pop and R&B elements.

In addition to her music career, Mauboy has also pursued acting, starring in the critically acclaimed film The Sapphires (2012) and the television series The Secret Daughter. Her success in both music and acting has made her a prominent figure in Australian entertainment, and she continues to inspire young artists, particularly within the Indigenous Australian community.

#20 Missy Higgins

Missy Higgins, born in 1983 in Melbourne, is an Australian singer-songwriter and musician known for her emotionally charged music and poignant lyrics. Higgins first gained attention with her debut album The Sound of White (2004), which included the hit single “Scar” and won her several ARIA Awards, including Album of the Year. Her music, which blends elements of folk, pop, and rock, often explores themes of love, self-discovery, and social issues, resonating with a wide audience. Higgins’ soulful voice and relatable lyrics have made her one of Australia’s most respected and successful contemporary artists.

Higgins has released several successful albums, including On a Clear Night (2007) and The Ol’ Razzle Dazzle (2012), and has toured extensively both in Australia and internationally. In addition to her music career, she is known for her activism, particularly in support of environmental and humanitarian causes. Missy Higgins remains a beloved figure in Australian music, celebrated for her artistry and integrity.

#21 The Seekers

The Seekers, formed in 1962 in Melbourne, are an Australian folk and pop group that became the first Australian band to achieve significant international success. Led by the warm, distinctive voice of Judith Durham, The Seekers’ music is characterized by its melodic folk-pop sound, featuring rich harmonies and acoustic instrumentation. Their breakthrough came with the 1964 hit “I’ll Never Find Another You,” which topped the charts in both the UK and Australia. The band’s subsequent hits, including “Georgy Girl,” “A World of Our Own,” and “The Carnival Is Over,” solidified their place in music history and made them one of the best-selling musical acts of the 1960s.

The Seekers’ success was groundbreaking, as they were the first Australian group to achieve major chart success in the UK and the US. Although they disbanded in 1968, the band has reunited several times for tours and special performances. Their contributions to the global music scene have earned them numerous accolades, including induction into the ARIA Hall of Fame.

#22 The Presets

The Presets, formed in 2003 in Sydney, are an electronic music duo consisting of Julian Hamilton and Kim Moyes. Known for their energetic and innovative sound, The Presets played a crucial role in bringing electronic dance music (EDM) to the mainstream in Australia. Their debut album, Beams (2005), introduced their distinctive blend of electro, techno, and rock, but it was their second album, Apocalypso (2008), that catapulted them to national and international fame. Featuring hits like “My People” and “Talk Like That,” Apocalypso won multiple ARIA Awards, including Album of the Year, and became one of the defining Australian albums of the late 2000s.

The Presets’ music is known for its infectious beats, dark, pulsating rhythms, and powerful vocal performances. They have been credited with influencing the Australian electronic music scene and inspiring a new generation of electronic artists. The Presets continue to be a dominant force in electronic music, both in Australia and globally.

#23 Flume

Flume, born Harley Streten in 1991 in Sydney, is an electronic music producer and DJ who has become one of the most influential figures in modern electronic music. Flume first gained attention with his self-titled debut album in 2012, which featured the hit single “Holdin On” and showcased his unique style, blending elements of future bass, downtempo, and experimental beats. The album was a critical and commercial success, earning him multiple ARIA Awards and establishing him as a leading figure in the global electronic music scene. Flume’s music is characterized by its innovative production techniques, lush soundscapes, and genre-defying approach.

In 2016, Flume released his second album, Skin, which included hits like “Never Be Like You” and “Say It.” The album further solidified his status as a top electronic artist, earning him a Grammy Award for Best Dance/Electronic Album. Flume continues to push the boundaries of electronic music, influencing both mainstream and underground music scenes worldwide.

#24 Wolfmother

Wolfmother, formed in 2004 in Sydney, is a hard rock band known for their retro-inspired sound that draws heavily from 1970s rock influences, including Led Zeppelin, Black Sabbath, and Deep Purple. The band’s self-titled debut album, released in 2005, was a commercial and critical success, featuring hits like “Woman” and “Joker and the Thief.” Wolfmother’s music is characterized by its heavy guitar riffs, powerful vocals, and a raw, energetic sound that harkens back to the golden age of rock. The band quickly gained a reputation for their electrifying live performances, further enhancing their status as one of Australia’s premier rock acts.

Over the years, Wolfmother has gone through various lineup changes, with frontman Andrew Stockdale remaining the consistent driving force behind the band. Despite these changes, they have continued to release successful albums and maintain a dedicated fanbase. Wolfmother’s impact on the modern rock scene is significant, and they remain a vital force in keeping the spirit of classic rock alive.

#25 Peter Allen

Peter Allen, born in 1944 in Tenterfield, New South Wales, was a singer-songwriter and entertainer who became one of Australia’s most beloved performers. Allen began his career in the 1960s as part of the duo The Allen Brothers, but it was his solo career that brought him international fame. Known for his flamboyant stage presence and catchy pop songs, Allen wrote and performed hits like “I Go to Rio,” “I Honestly Love You” (a major hit for Olivia Newton-John), and the iconic “I Still Call Australia Home.” His music was a mix of pop, cabaret, and easy listening, characterized by its upbeat melodies and heartfelt lyrics.

Peter Allen was also a successful songwriter, penning hits for artists such as Frank Sinatra and Dusty Springfield. His life and career were celebrated in the musical The Boy from Oz, which became a major success on Broadway. Allen’s contributions to music and his enduring legacy as an entertainer have made him a cherished figure in Australian culture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which Australian musician achieved global fame with the hit song “Somebody That I Used to Know”?

Gotye, born Wouter De Backer, achieved worldwide fame with his 2011 hit “Somebody That I Used to Know,” which topped charts in over 20 countries and earned him a Grammy Award.

Who is known as the “Princess of Pop” from Australia?

Kylie Minogue, often referred to as the “Princess of Pop,” is a globally successful Australian pop singer who has enjoyed a long career with hits like “Can’t Get You Out of My Head” and “Spinning Around.”

Which Australian rock band became famous for their protest song “Beds Are Burning”?

Midnight Oil, led by frontman Peter Garrett, gained international recognition with their 1987 hit “Beds Are Burning,” a song that highlighted Indigenous land rights and became a powerful anthem for social justice.

What impact did The Bee Gees have on the music industry?

The Bee Gees, originally from Australia, became one of the best-selling music acts of all time, particularly known for their disco hits on the Saturday Night Fever soundtrack, which played a significant role in shaping the disco era of the 1970s.