Divinyls Singer Dead at 53, Chrissy Amphlett Mourned
Divinyls lead singer Christina Amphlett died at age 53 over the weekend, according to reports Monday.
Formed in Sydney, Australia in 1980, the Divinyls were best known for their bawdy hit song "I Touch Myself." The rock group consisted of Amphlett and guitarist Mark McEntee.
Amphlett died Sunday at her New York City home after battling cancer, reported the Associated Press. The singer was unable to undergo both radiation and chemotherapy treatments due to already suffering from multiple sclerosis.
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Amphlett's husband, fellow musician Charley Drayton, released a statement following his wife's death.
"Christine Joy Amphlett succumbed to the effects of breast cancer and multiple sclerosis, diseases she vigorously fought with exceptional bravery and dignity," said Drayton.
"Chrissy's light burns so very brightly," he continued. "Hers was a life of passion and creativity. She always lived it to the fullest. With her force of character and vocal strength, she paved the way for strong, sexy, outspoken women."
Despite her MS diagnosis in 2007 as well as the cancer diagnosis three years later, Amphlett remained upbeat.
"My illnesses have really exhausted this little body of mine that I have thrown from one end of the stage to another and performed thousands of shows that sadly some of you missed," the singer posted to Facebook last year, according to World News Australia.
"With that said I am getting stronger but there is still some fine tuning and work to be done on myself," Amphlett added.
In addition to singing, Amphlett appeared in the original production of "The Boy from Oz," according to World News Australia.
Many of Amphlett's fans are mourning her death on Monday, including fellow Aussie and Hollywood star Russell Crowe.
"Dear Chrissie, The last time I saw you was in the Botanic Gardens, loving life and reciting verse," the actor posted to Twitter. "That's how I'll remember you, your boy, R."
Singer Questlove added, "rip to The Divinyls' Chrissy Amphett."
"Just heard the terrible news re Chrissy Amphlett," wrote Australian cricket player Shane Warne. "RIP sending cuddles to all the family, your legacy & music will live on!!"
