Legendary New Zealand singer dead at 81 after a year-long battle with cancer

New Zealand country singer Eddie Low died in Christchurch on Saturday aged 81, after a year long battle with cancer.

The Rotorua-born, legally blind crooner had a 60-year career in showbusiness and released over 20 albums and countless singles throughout his celebrated life.

Eddie’s daughter Maria confirmed his passing in a heartbreaking Facebook post.

‘His music will live on forever. Eddie Low passed away peacefully at 7.45am Saturday September 2024, with loved ones at his side,’ she began.

‘Born into poverty on 14 May 1943, Eddie’s life was marked by extraordinary resilience, determination, and talent.

‘Eddie will be remembered as a beloved musician, a trailblazer and a source of inspiration for all who knew him.’

The energetic entertainer earned the nickname ‘the voice in a million’ due to his upbeat country music performances.

He performed across New Zealand, Australia and internationally throughout his long career, and was renowned for bringing his A-Game to every concert. 

The legally blind crooner had a 60-year career in showbusiness and released over 20 albums and countless singles throughout his celebrated life

Eddie was known for his heartfelt and emotional songs which combined country, folk and pop music styles.

In recognition of his incredible career, he was awarded Member of the New Zealand Order of Merit for services to music in the 2006 Queen’s Birthday Honours.

Some of his most popular songs were Maori Medley, Help Me Make It Through The Night and Bonnie Please Don’t Go. 

He continued to perform across New Zealand with his band The Highway Men, up until a few months before his passing. 

Sadly, Eddie’s wife Kathleen died several years before him, in 2019.

He is survived by their children Taniya, Dayne and Maria.

A live-streamed memorial service was held in Christchurch on Thursday. 

The energetic entertainer earned the nickname ‘ the voice in a million’ due to his upbeat country music performances