Tragic news has emerged from New Zealand as Martin Phillipps, iconic singer-guitarist and founder of the celebrated jangle-pop band The Chills, has passed away unexpectedly at the age of 61. In a heartfelt announcement, the family of Martin Phillipps shared their sorrow and requested privacy during this difficult time.
While the cause of death has not been disclosed, it was noted in a 2019 documentary that Martin struggled with liver disease following a severe hepatitis C diagnosis in the 1990s, which resulted in liver failure. This health battle persisted for several years, marking a significant chapter in his life.
The Chills garnered admiration for their distinctive approach to jangle-pop and indie rock, blending sharp melodies with an ethereal aesthetic. As the lead songwriter and guitarist, Phillipps played a crucial role in crafting the band’s legacy. They achieved remarkable success in New Zealand, securing three Top 10 albums, and reached international acclaim with their hit “Heavenly Pop Hit” from the 1990 album Submarine Bells, which resonated across the U.S., U.K., Australia, and New Zealand.
Originating in Dunedin, New Zealand, in 1980, Phillipps founded The Chills at the young age of 17. Throughout their history, the band faced numerous member changes, yet Phillipps remained the steadfast creative force behind their music. Notable former members include Peter Gutteridge and David Kilgour from The Clean, Jane Dodd from The Verlaines, and Justin Harwood from Luna, along with his sister Rachel Phillipps.
As a key artist on the Flying Nun Records label, The Chills played a vital role in shaping its signature sound, releasing a series of influential records, starting with the 1982 Dunedin Double EP and continuing with the 1986 compilation Kaleidoscope World and their debut album Brave Words in 1987. The popularity of songs like “Pink Frost” led to a major label deal with Warner Bros. After releasing Submarine Bells and Soft Bomb, the band temporarily disbanded in 1992, leading Phillipps to explore other musical ventures.
The Chills made a comeback in 1994, re-signing with Flying Nun for their 1996 album Sunburnt, though the group experienced additional breaks. Phillipps continued to pursue various collaborations and solo work, eventually revitalizing The Chills with a new lineup. The band later produced the Stand By EP in 2004 and released three more albums over the following decade: Silver Bullets in 2015, Snow Bound in 2018, and Scatterbrain in 2021.
