Legendary Music Producer Mark Moffatt Dead at 74

While sharing a love for the guitar, Mark Moffatt found his calling as a music producer. Throughout his career, the producer worked with some of the biggest names to come out of Australia. Although moving the Nashville to expand his career in music, he never forgot where he came from. Always willing to help artists from his home, Moffatt eventually nurtured a working relationship with country star Keith Urban. Sadly, after battling pancreatic cancer, Moffatt passed away at 74 years old. 

Leaving behind a rich legacy in music, Moffatt once discussed his ongoing success with The Music. Opening up about his time with Yothu Yindi and working on the single “Treaty”, he said, “This was life-changing, really. I spent time with the band and learned their tribal beliefs. The didge player, Milkay, was unbelievable. He was like the master.”

Explaining how the single went international, Moffatt recalled a moment inside an airport with the band. “I remember when Treaty was out, and we were still working on the album, I was with the band at Tullamarine airport, and these white schoolkids came running up to these Aboriginal guys to ask for their autographs. That was a very special moment.”

Country Stars Remembers Time With Mark Moffatt

With news of Moffatt’s passing making its rounds on social media, country star Troy Cassar-Daley took a moment to remember the producer. “I am saddened to hear of the passing of Mark Moffat this morning, He hailed from around Maryborough, Queensland and did so much for so many as a producer, guitar player and mentor.” He continued, “’I first met him in Sydney he had just produced one of my favourite Shane Howard records, The River.”

Honoring his legacy, Cassar-Daley recalled their friendship. “We always caught up when I went to Nashville and I’ll miss his stories and wonderful guitar playing, we wrote a song called ‘Long way home’ together which was a title track years ago. Just another good human gone too soon who I will miss.” 

Cassar-Daley ended the message with, “Such a huge array of artists that he has produced and helped. Will miss you in Nashville Moff.” Outside of his time in the studio, Moffatt left behind a family that included his wife, children, and even grandchildren.

(Photo by Rick Diamond/Getty Images for the Country Music Hall of Fame & Museum)