I, like many in the industry, today mourn the loss of The Model’s James Freud.
Earlier this year I had the pleasure of meeting James Freud (and his sons) in a dingy pub in Los Angeles for a friends birthday, while I was in town covering the Aussie BBQ (and en route to SXSW). I’d heard of the band, but never of the man himself – his popularity was a bit before my time. I was also unaware of his public battles with addiction and alcoholism. So I feel a bit uneasy in saying I met the guy in a bar.
But my memories of James from that night are of a man full of life, stories to tell. As most would tell you – he was just a good bloke. Having allowed me to crash at their apartment that night, my final memory is of sneaking out quite early in the morning, feeling a little like a dirty whore (as you do after any good night out in Los Angeles), at which time I said my thanks, and he wished me well on my journeys.
He was in LA managing his son’s band, Attack Of The Mannequins, who had relocated temporarily at that time. He was giving this role his full attention and I definitely saw a sparkle in his eyes when he told me about them and their music. Indeed, they’re a cool band and you should definitely check them out. His sons, Harrison and Jackson, were the nicest guys too – my thoughts are with them and his wife Sally at this time. I’m truly shocked and saddened by the news. RIP.
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Mushroom Records put out the following statement earlier today:
JAMES FREUD RIP – 29 June 1959 to 04 November 2010
It is with much sorrow that we share the news of the passing of James Freud.
James Freud passed away this morning. James’ battle with alcoholism has been well chronicled. His two books on his recovery and five years sobriety were bestsellers and gave a lot of people who were suffering the same affliction comfort and hope.
Unfortunately, James has succumbed to his disease and taken his own life this morning.
James Freud commenced his music career at the age of 17 as a member of the Teenage Radio Stars who had their first Australian hit with ‘I Wanna Be Your Baby’. He signed with Michael Gudinski’s Mushroom Records label and had a successful solo career with the hit ‘Modern Girl’ from the album ‘Breaking Silence’ in 1980. James joined The Models in 1982 and wrote their smash hits ‘Barbados’, ‘and ‘Out Of Mind, Out Of Sight’ from their hugely successful ‘Out Of Mind, Out Of Sight’ album. Always a dynamic and energetic performer, James got a rousing reception each night of the 2006 Countdown Spectacular when he performed ‘Out Of Mind, Out Of Sight’ to the sell out crowds across Australia.
James was signed to Mushroom Records and was a close family friend of Michael and Sue Gudinski; Michael Gudinski was devastated to hear about James’ passing this morning.
“James was a true pioneer – he successfully crossed over from Australia’s burgeoning punk scene in the early 80s, to then create some of the most played tracks in Australia’s recording history. He will be greatly missed by his family and friends, the industry, and music fans everywhere.”
He should be remembered as one of Australia’s shining lights in the music industry. His family is devastated and would appreciate privacy during this difficult time
James Randall Freud is survived by his wife Sally, and sons Harrison and Jackson.
