Ian Rilen dead at age 59

Mon 30th Oct, 2006 in Local News

Former Rose Tattoo guitarist, Ian Rilen has lost his long battle with bladder cancer. The 59 year old musican died in his home this morning surrounded by friends and family.

Rilen’s career has spanned more than three decades and seen the wild man of rock playing guitar in several band incarnations, from Rose Tattoo to  Sardine V to Melbourne punk rockers X to his most recent outfit – The Love Addicts.

He penned many a hit, but will probably be best remembered for his tune, Bad Boy For Love (which he recently played live as part of the Supergroup on stage at the last Jack Awards) and occasionaly adapted into a bluesy cruisey jazzy number with the Love Addicts.

Rilen has was diagnosed with bladder cancer earlier this year. He is survived by his partner Brigette, former wives, Stephanie and Sophie and his four children Tallulah, Gentilla, Jay Jay and Romeo.

He will be sadly missed.

Fans wishing to leave a tribute to Ian should point their browser to the Barman’s website – where you can also read a lovely epitaph to one of the finest men in rock ‘n’ roll…