Skyhooks Guitarist Bob Starkie Dies at 73

Bob "Bongo" Starkie, the rhythm guitarist for the influential Australian rock band Skyhooks, died early Saturday morning at age 73 after a yearlong battle with acute myeloid leukemia.

The band's official Facebook page confirmed the news, stating, "It's with sadness in our hearts that we have to send out this news that early this morning Bob Bongo Starkie has passed away." The post noted that Starkie had undergone treatment while hoping to return to performing. "Music was in his blood till the very end," it added. As the youngest member of the band, Starkie embraced the theatrical elements that defined Skyhooks, from bold facial makeup and elaborate stage costumes to an irreverent energy on stage. "The music always came first and touring and playing onstage was his absolute joy," the statement said. The band expressed condolences to Starkie's family.

Starkie's daughter, Indiana, shared a family tribute on the same page, describing his peaceful passing. "Our Dearest GrandDaddyBop has peacefully departed listening to Chuck Berry. Snuggling with his fur baby Bonnie, surrounded by friends and family," she wrote. She added that he was deeply loved by daughters Indiana and Arabella,...