What Made Chrissy Amphlett A Great Rock Icon?
Chrissy Amphlett’s journey from Sydney’s stages to global stardom sums up what made her an iconic figure in rock music. In this feature, Jukebox Saturday Night invites you to explore how Amphlett’s bold artistry and unyielding spirit broke barriers, shaping the landscape for female artists in rock.
Learn about how her influence that transcends time continues to inspire new generations, leaving a lasting mark on music and culture.
Chrissy Amphlett and the Divinyls: Rise to fame
Chrissy Amphlett’s rise to rock stardom began in 1980 when she co-founded the Divinyls in Sydney, Australia. She and guitarist Mark McEntee formed an electrifying duo, their chemistry (on and off stage) igniting the band’s unique sound. Amphlett’s dynamic stage presence quickly became a defining trait, setting the Divinyls apart in the competitive music scene.
Rising to international stardom
The Divinyls gained widespread recognition in the late 1980s and early 1990s. Their popularity was fueled by their innovative sound and compelling performances.
Albums like Desperate (1983), What a life! (1985) and Temperamental (1988) paved the way for their growing popularity. Their 1990 single ‘I touch myself’, which was part of their debut album, Divinyls, became an anthem of empowerment and sensuality, reaching No. 4 in the United States, No. 10 in the UK and topping the charts in Australia, becoming a defining song of their career.
A trailblazer on stage
Bold and unapologetic style
Chrissy Amphlett’s stage presence was a masterclass in defiance, characterised by overt sexuality and humour. It set new standards for female performers. In a music industry where female performers were often pigeonholed as being compliant, distant or playfully sexy, Amphlett shattered these stereotypes with her bold, confrontational approach. Her presence was nothing short of a revolution, one where she wielded her raw authenticity as her weapon. Her intentionally provocative style was a powerful expression of the feminist themes in her music.
It wasn’t just about grabbing attention; it was about challenging norms and embracing genuine self-expression, which resonated deeply with many people.
Her signature vocal techniques
Amphlett’s vocal ability was captivating. She had a unique style that combined a seductive growl with explosive vocal projections, which became a hallmark of the Divinyls’ sound.
This range allowed her to convey deep emotions, drawing listeners into a whirlwind of feelings with every performance. Her ability to switch from haunting whispers to commanding shouts kept her audience riveted, making her performances unforgettable.
Must-see live shows
Experiencing Amphlett live was unforgettable. It will make you relieve the thrill of singing along with the classic hits from a seventies jukebox – a memorable feat.
She dominated the stage with an intensity that few could match, combining a fierce persona with an approachable warmth that endeared her to fans and connected her to the audience. Her concerts, aside from being musical events, were profound interactions that many remembered long after the lights went down.
Songwriting that broke barriers
Amphlett’s songwriting addressed themes that many avoided. Her lyrics boldly explored empowerment, sexuality and personal relationships, often from a distinctly feminist perspective. Her songs did more than entertain; they sparked conversations and challenged societal norms, making her music a powerful tool for reflection and change.
Expanding her artistic horizons
Aside from being a rock icon, Amphlett was also a talented actress in musical theatre and film. Starting her theatre career at 17, she made a bold debut in the adult-themed musical Let my people come in 1976, where she played Linda Lips in both Melbourne and Sydney.
Her acting skills shone brightly in Blood brothers as Mrs. Johnstone, acting alongside Russell Crowe. It was the first Australian production of the musical.
Amphlett’s film debut was in 1982 in Monkey grip, in which she played the supporting role of Angela, the lead singer of a rock band. This role helped solidify her status as a musician and as an actress, demonstrating her versatility and depth across different media.
Contributions beyond the spotlight
Amphlett also made significant contributions beyond entertainment. She was a vocal advocate for breast cancer awareness, using her platform to promote self-examinations among women. Her song ‘I touch myself’ became an anthem for this cause, reminding women to prioritise their health.
In 2005, she shared her life story through her autobiography, Pleasure and pain: my life, providing an honest look into her personal experiences and professional journey. Her openness offered guidance and inspiration to her fans and those looking to make their mark in the arts.
Chrissy Amphlett’s work extended her influence far beyond music and acting, leaving a legacy of advocacy and inspiration that continues to impact around the web and the world today.
Celebrating a legacy of honours
In 2006, Chrissy Amphlett and the Divinyls were celebrated with an induction into the Australian Recording Industry Association (ARIA) Hall of Fame. This honour was a testament to their significant impact on Australian music, acknowledging Amphlett’s exceptional talent and the band’s influential contributions.
Other prestigious awards
Her remarkable influence in music was recognised with several prestigious awards throughout her career:
- In 1982, Amphlett was awarded Most Popular Female, a nod to her captivating stage presence and her early impact on the music scene.
- The song ‘Science Fiction’ was recognised by the Australian Performing Right Association (APRA) as one of the Top 30 Australian songs of all time during the Divinyls’ 75th anniversary celebrations in 2001. This recognition highlighted the enduring appeal and significance of the Divinyls’ music.
- In 2018, she was posthumously inducted into the Music Victoria Hall of Fame, further solidifying her legacy as a pioneering force in the music industry.
These awards and recognitions affirmed Amphlett’s groundbreaking contributions, her artistry and her role as a formidable force in music history.
Legacy and influence on rock music
Chrissy Amphlett was a revolutionary force in rock music. Her fearless and audacious performances set the stage – literally and figuratively – for future generations of female rock artists.
She shattered the usual expectations for female performers, inspiring other women in rock to express themselves freely and powerfully. Her genuine, fearless style showed the world that women could command the stage on their own terms.
Lasting influence across generations
Amphlett’s influence reaches far beyond her own time. Her music and the way she carried herself continue to inspire both well-established artists and new talents. Icons like Joan Jett and Courtney Love have cited her as a key influence on their own music and stage presence.
Her courage and unique style continue to attract fans from all generations, securing her place as a timeless figure in the history of rock music.
An iconic figure in Australian culture
Back home in Australia, Amphlett is celebrated both as a musician and as a cultural icon. She stands as a symbol of talent and determination, inspiring countless Australian musicians. Her legacy is woven into the cultural fabric of the country, celebrated through various tributes such as murals and music festivals that honour her memory and contributions to the arts.
Key points to remember
- Trailblazing performer. With her daring performances, Chrissy Amphlett revolutionised the image of female rock artists, breaking gender norms and setting new standards for authenticity on stage.
- Iconic hits. Her groundbreaking single ‘I touch myself’ reached the top charts internationally and served as a bold statement on female empowerment and sexual independence.
- Versatile actress. Amphlett’s talents extended into acting, where she delivered compelling performances in musical theatre and film.
- Health advocacy. Beyond entertainment, she passionately advocated for breast cancer awareness.
- Literary contributions. Her autobiography, Pleasure and pain: my life, provides an insightful look into her personal and professional journey, offering readers inspiration and courage.
- Enduring influence. Her influence continues to resonate with new generations of musicians and fans, illustrating her timeless relevance in the music industry and cultural landscape.
- Cultural icon. In Australia, Amphlett is celebrated for her musical achievements and as a cultural icon, whose legacy is immortalised in murals and festivals.
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