Andy Bickers, the long-serving saxophonist for Australian rock band Cold Chisel, died Friday morning following a battle with cancer, the band announced on Instagram.
Bickers had been a member of the Adelaide pub rockers for over 30 years. The band shared an emotional post describing him as a "brother" and an "incredible musician." His contributions to songs such as "Rising Sun," "Saturday Night," and "My Baby" will be greatly missed, the post stated. The band also extended condolences to his wife, Lisa, and son, Rudy.
Lead singer Jimmy Barnes also paid tribute to Bickers on his personal Instagram page. Barnes noted that Bickers had toured with him on many soul and rock shows. He remembered Bickers not only as a great player but also as a "funny, intelligent, and most importantly, he was a good man." Barnes sent his love to Lisa and Rudy, stating Bickers would be sadly missed.
Fans also shared tributes in the comments of the band's and Barnes' posts. Jimmy Barnes' wife, Jane, wrote, "A very sad day. Rest now Andy. Love and Courage young Rudy, lovely Lisa and Andy's family and loved ones. No more suffering. Travel well old friend."
Bickers, originally from Wellington, New Zealand, moved to Australia after university in the late 1980s. Inspired by the Australia Made Tour, he quickly became a fixture on the live music scene in Melbourne and Sydney. He joined Jimmy Barnes' solo touring band in the early 1990s before becoming a member of Cold Chisel. He also toured with notable artists such as The Eagles, Midnight Oil, and Diesel.