Rob Hirst: A Force of Nature in Australian Rock
The music world mourns the loss of Rob Hirst, the legendary drummer and founding member of Midnight Oil, who passed away at the age of 70. Hirst was not just a drummer; he was a born showman, a gifted songwriter, and a cornerstone of one of Australia’s most iconic bands. His influence on Australian music and culture is immeasurable, and his legacy will resonate for generations to come.
The Drummer Behind Midnight Oil’s Hits
Rob Hirst was best known for his explosive drum solo on Midnight Oil’s classic song “Power and the Passion,” a track that has become synonymous with the band’s energy and passion. Recorded in 1982 for their breakthrough album 10, 9, 8, 7, 6, 5, 4, 3, 2, 1, the solo was more than just a display of technical skill—it was a musical statement that enhanced the song’s emotional depth. Live, Hirst often performed the solo on a corrugated iron water tank he retrieved from the desert during the band’s Blackfella/Whitefella tour in 1986, adding a unique and raw element to the performance.
A Songwriting Genius
While Hirst’s drumming skills are legendary, his contributions as a songwriter are often overlooked. His name appears in the credits of some of Midnight Oil’s biggest anthems, including “Beds Are Burning,” “The Dead Heart,” “Forgotten Years,” and “King of the Mountain.” Hirst was the one who usually provided the skeleton of these songs, with guitarist Jim Moginie fleshing them out. Their partnership was a key factor in the band’s success, with each bringing their unique strengths to the table.
Inspiration Behind the Hits
One of the most striking examples of Hirst’s songwriting prowess is “The Dead Heart.” According to Moginie’s memoir The Silver River, Hirst came in with the lyric and melody, and Moginie added the “doo-doo-doo” hook and the key shift in the intro. Similarly, Hirst had an epiphany while working on a track called “Valuable Thing,” recasting it as “Hercules,” an elegy for the Rainbow Warrior, the Greenpeace vessel sunk by the French government in Auckland. This song became a powerful statement on environmental activism and human rights.
A Legacy of Social Commentary
Hirst’s songwriting was not just musically compelling; it was also deeply rooted in social and political commentary. Tracks like “Short Memory” and “Forgotten Years” are examples of his ability to tackle complex themes with simplicity and power. “Short Memory” critiques how those who forget the mistakes of the past are condemned to repeat them, while “Forgotten Years” is a poignant anti-war song inspired by the experiences of Hirst’s father and grandfather.
“Blue Sky Mine” and Environmental Activism
One of Hirst’s most powerful songs is “Blue Sky Mine,” written for the asbestos victims of the Wittenoom disaster. The defining lyric, “Nothing’s as precious as a hole in the ground,” sung with bitter irony, remains equally relevant to any rapacious mining operation today. The song is a testament to Hirst’s ability to turn personal and political issues into universal themes that resonate with listeners.
Midnight Oil’s Impact on Australian Culture
Midnight Oil’s music was more than just rock; it was a voice for the voiceless, a call to action, and a reflection of the social and political climate of its time. Hirst’s contributions were instrumental in shaping the band’s identity and legacy. His drumming was the heartbeat of the band, while his songwriting provided the soul. Together with Peter Garrett’s passionate vocals and Jim Moginie’s guitar work, they created a sound that was uniquely Australian and universally appealing.
A Born Showman
On stage, Hirst was a force of nature. His energy and charisma were infectious, and he had a way of leading the band from behind the drums that was both commanding and captivating. He was a born showman who knew how to connect with audiences, making every performance an unforgettable experience.
Remembering Rob Hirst
Rob Hirst’s passing leaves a void in the music world, but his legacy will live on through the music he created. His drumming, his songwriting, and his passion for social justice have left an indelible mark on Australian music and culture. As fans and fellow musicians remember him, one thing is clear: Rob Hirst was a true legend, and his music will continue to inspire for years to come.
