The Australian music industry is in mourning following the tragic death of beloved singer-songwriter Jack Colwell, who passed away on Thursday at the age of 34. Colwell was set to release his highly anticipated second album, a follow-up to his acclaimed debut.

Despite having a limited discography, Colwell was an accomplished artist who made significant contributions to the music scene. He released his first studio album, Swandream, in 2020, five years after his stirring debut single, “Don’t Cry Those Tears.” Produced by fellow singer-songwriter Sarah Blasko, Swandream received widespread acclaim and was recognized as one of the year’s best Australian releases.

In what would become his final social media update, Colwell announced on September 24 that his long-awaited follow-up album was nearly complete. “Hi all – looking forward to releasing some new music soon. The mixes are nearly done, and the mastering is booked in. I’ve been saying for ages that LP2 will be with you soon, and that day isn’t too far off!” he shared just a week before his passing. It remains uncertain whether this album will be released posthumously.

Tributes are pouring in from friends and colleagues in the music industry, honoring the immense talent that Colwell embodied. Sarah Blasko praised him on Instagram, calling him “one of my favourite people in the whole wide world, who possessed the charm of a thousand princes and a musical spirit like no other.” She concluded with, “Love you always, Jack.”

Australian comedian and writer Gen Fricker, a close friend since high school, expressed her devastation on Instagram, describing Colwell as her “first best friend” and lamenting, “I am devastated and furious.”