Australian Country Music Legend Rob Potts Passes Away

Country music icon Rob Potts has passed away following a motorcycle accident yesterday in Tasmania.

The Country Music Association confirmed the news via a statement, with Chief Executive Officer Sarah Trahern saying the country music community is “devastated”.

“He was a key driver of our international expansion for the past years and waived the country flag proudly in Australia,” Trahern said. 

“On a personal note, my husband Wayne and I have lost a vibrant friend. Rob lived life to its fullest.”

The influential promoter and manager was a longtime member of the CMA, established CMC Rocks festival with Chugg Entertainment, managed Nashville star Morgan Evans and ran Rob Potts Entertainment Edge, among countless other things.

Chugg said of the news, "I'm lost for words. I'm heartbroken. Rob came to me more than 35 years ago as a fellow Tasmanian with a passion for music, he wanted to do great things.

"He was without question, the most passionate supporter of country music in Australia. Rob was at the top of his game and all his dreams were coming true. The country music world and the global music industry has lost a pioneer. I have lost a great friend."

Matthew Lazarus-Hall, CEO of CMC Rocks QLD, added, "It has been an honour and a privilege to have worked with Rob in delivering his dream of a sell-out country music festival in Australia.

"Rob's passion and determination was never ending. The industry has lost a great man and I have lost one of my dearest friends."

Tributes are flowing for Potts, with Keith Urban saying he is “stunned” by the news.

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