The Australian music community is mourning the loss of John 'Tatt' Dalzell, the esteemed bass player for the iconic 1980s rock band Johnny Diesel and the Injectors, who has died at the age of 66.
Social Media Announcement from Band Frontman
Mark Lizotte, widely known by his stage name Diesel, shared the heartbreaking news on his social media platforms this Wednesday. In a poignant Instagram tribute, which was also posted to Facebook, Lizotte expressed his grief and admiration for his former bandmate.
'RIP John Dalzell,' Lizotte wrote. 'Thanks for the music we made together, the sweat, tears and laughs. One of the most gentle souls one could ever encounter... sending light and love to his family.'
At this time, no further details regarding the circumstances or cause of death have been disclosed to the public.
Formation and Rise of Johnny Diesel and the Injectors
Dalzell, who was born in Perth, teamed up with Lizotte – the US-born brother-in-law of rock legend Jimmy Barnes – to form Johnny Diesel and the Injectors in Perth, Western Australia, back in 1986. The band quickly gained a reputation for their distinctive hard rock sound.
Interestingly, according to an obituary featured on the music blog Noise, Dalzell's own surname served as the creative inspiration behind the band's memorable name.
Musical Journey and Critical Acclaim
After winning over local audiences in Perth, Dalzell relocated to Sydney with the rest of the band. They swiftly established a strong following within Sydney's vibrant music scene. Their big break came in 1988 after touring as a support act for Jimmy Barnes, which led to them securing a record deal.
The band travelled to the United States to record their debut self-titled album. Released in 1989, the album soared to number two on the ARIA charts in Australia. It later earned an ARIA award for Highest Selling Album, having shipped an impressive 280,000 units – a remarkable achievement for an Australian record at that time.
Dalzell received particular praise for his unforgettable bass line on the band's hit single, Don't Need Love, a riff that cemented his legacy among fans and fellow musicians.
Life After the Band and Lasting Legacy
Following the dissolution of Johnny Diesel and the Injectors in 1991, Diesel embarked on a successful solo career. Noise reported that Dalzell's foundational bass lines continued to anchor the sound of his former bandmates' music.
In his later years, Dalzell reportedly moved to the Northern Territory. He also had musical stints with other bands, including Innocent Bystanders and Living Sounds Of Love.
Outpouring of Tributes from Fans and Peers
Lizotte's social media post has prompted an outpouring of condolences and memories from fans and fellow musicians alike.
- Hitmaker Nathan Cavaleri posted a simple blue heart emoji in tribute.
- Mick Evans of Melbourne's Prairie Oysters shared: 'RIP John, definitely one of the nicest chilled fellas I encountered early in my...touring days. Condolences Mark.'
- One fan commented: 'Very sad news. He was a brilliant part of Johnny Diesel and the Injectors. Too young to leave this earth x.'
- Another admirer reflected on Facebook: 'From the opening bass line of the Injectors Don't Need Love I was hooked and then a fan for life. RIP John (the original Johnny Diesel).'
- A further tribute noted: 'It’s a fact of music life that the guys behind some of the most iconic and recognisable lines/riffs escape mainstream fame. That opening bass from Don't Need Love is the stuff legacy is made of... tough weeks for Aus music.'
John 'Tatt' Dalzell is remembered not only for his significant musical contributions but also as a cherished and gentle soul within the Australian music industry.
