Archie Roach, born Archibald William Roach, was an Australian singer-songwriter, musician, and advocate for Aboriginal rights. He entered the world on January 8, 1956, and departed on July 30, 2022, at the age of 66.
Roach left an indelible mark on music, especially with his iconic song “Took the Children Away,” which brought attention to the struggles of the Stolen Generations. As a respected elder of the Gunditjmara and Bundjalung communities, he tirelessly fought for the rights of Indigenous peoples across Australia.
Over his career, Roach received numerous awards, including induction into the ARIA Hall of Fame in 2020. His memoir and album, “Tell Me Why,” released in 2019, further showcased his profound storytelling and musical prowess.
Key Facts About Archie Roach
- Archibald William Roach, known as Archie Roach, was born on January 8, 1956, in Mooroopna, Victoria, Australia, and died on July 30, 2022, in Warrnambool, Victoria, Australia.
- He was of Gunditjmara (Kirrae Whurrong/Djab Wurrung) and Bundjalung heritage and was a member of the Stolen Generations.
- Roach was a singer-songwriter and Aboriginal activist, often referred to as “Uncle Archie”.
- His musical career spanned from the 1980s to 2022, with genres including folk, ballads, and Aboriginal rock.
- He was known for songs like “Took the Children Away” and toured globally, opening for artists like Joan Armatrading, Bob Dylan, and Patti Smith.
- Roach received numerous awards and nominations, including a Deadly Award for a “Lifetime Contribution to Healing the Stolen Generations” in 2013 and was inducted into the ARIA Music Awards hall of fame in 2020.
- His discography includes albums such as “Charcoal Lane” (1990), “Jamu Dreaming” (1993), and “Into the Bloodstream” (2012).
Archie Roach Family: Who Are His Wife And Kids?
Archie Roach’s family life intertwined deeply with his music and activism, revealing a profound dedication to his Aboriginal heritage and a passion for nurturing talent among young Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander individuals.
His wife, Ruby Hunter, was not just his life partner but also his musical collaborator. Born on October 31, 1955, Ruby Hunter, affectionately known as Aunty Ruby, was an Aboriginal Australian singer, songwriter, and guitarist. Their relationship was beautifully captured in the documentary “Wash My Soul in the River’s Flow,” which showcased their unique bond and the songs they crafted together. Ruby Hunter passed away on February 17, 2010.
Together, Archie and Ruby raised two sons, Amos and Eban, fostering a deeply nurturing environment for their family. Their commitment to keeping their family united was remarkable, with Ruby Hunter proudest of this achievement.
In addition to their biological children, Archie and Ruby officially fostered three children: Kriss, Terrence, and Arthur. They also informally cared for approximately 15 to 20 more children over the years, highlighting their dedication to mentoring and nurturing young talent.
Their parenting and fostering approach emphasized love and stability, creating a warm and supportive atmosphere in their home. This commitment reflected their values and their desire to contribute positively to their community.
Archie Roach’s legacy extends beyond his music and activism to his family. His sons, Amos and Eban, have ensured that his name and image can continue to inspire future generations. The Archie Roach Foundation, established in 2014, carries forward his vision by nurturing talent among young Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander individuals, offering opportunities in the arts and fostering cultural connection and healing. This foundation stands as a testament to Archie Roach’s enduring commitment to his community and his desire to empower and uplift young people.
Archie Roach’s family life epitomized his profound dedication to his Aboriginal heritage, his music, and his community. Through his relationship with Ruby Hunter and his commitment to fostering young talent, he leaves behind a legacy that continues to inspire and support Indigenous youth.
Archie Roach Health And Illness Condition
Archie Roach’s health and battles with illness played a pivotal role in both his personal and professional life. Here’s a detailed overview:
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD): For years, Archie Roach grappled with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. The situation worsened in November 2020, leading to his hospitalization at Warrnambool Base Hospital, where he spent several days in intensive care.
Critical Illness During ARIA Performance: During his induction into the ARIA Hall of Fame on November 25, 2020, Roach was critically ill. Despite his condition, he performed his iconic song “Took the Children Away” from a venue near the hospital, with medical assistance on standby. He sang seated and used a nasal cannula for breathing. Following the performance, he returned to the hospital for further treatment.
Health Challenges Following Ruby Hunter’s Death: After the passing of his wife, Ruby Hunter, in 2010, Roach faced additional health hurdles. He experienced a stroke and, despite a recovery and return to live performance six months later, was later diagnosed with lung cancer. He underwent surgery to remove part of his lung, having previously donated a kidney to one of his brothers in an unsuccessful transplant.
Overall Health Conditions: Roach’s health issues extended beyond COPD and lung cancer. He battled severe epilepsy and survived a suicide attempt. These conditions, coupled with struggles with alcoholism and homelessness, significantly impacted his life and career.
Impact on Performance and Activism: Despite his health challenges, Roach persisted in performing and remained active in his activism. His resilience in the face of health adversity underscored his dedication to his music and the causes he championed. His performances, particularly during critical periods, reflected his strength and determination.
Legacy and Final Years: Roach’s health struggles became part of his legacy, showcasing his resilience and the profound impact of his music and activism. In his final years, he continued to perform and launched educational initiatives aimed at educating young Australians about Indigenous Australia, cultural identity, and the experiences of the stolen generations.
Archie Roach’s health journey was a significant aspect of his life, influencing both his personal and professional endeavors. Despite the challenges, he remained a formidable advocate for Indigenous Australians, utilizing his music and activism to confront social injustices and inspire positive change.
