It’s with a heavy heart that we farewell one of Australia’s most influential radio personalities Stephen ‘The Ghost’ Walker. Stephen passed away on Wednesday, July 3rd after a long battle with Multiple Sclerosis and a short one with cancer.
Best known for his long running 3RRR Radio program, “The Skull Cave”, Stephen will be remembered for his dulcet tones, encyclopaedic knowledge and eclectic musical taste. His many legions of devoted fans credit him with introducing them to the music that has shaped their lives and I am one.
For as long as I can remember I’d tune into The Skull Cave on 3 RRR for the most diverse range of alternative music you could ever hope to hear. It’s like The Ghost knew what you wanted to hear and knew what you needed to hear. He introduced me to the underground sounds of New York, Chicago, Detroit, Berlin … you name it, he knew something about a scene somewhere in the world which had a whiff of buzz about it.
I first met Stephen when he contributed to Juke, the weekly rock magazine I worked at back in the 80s. He reviewed albums and conducted interviews for us and would come in on a regular basis, always a gentleman, always offering sage advice. I was the advertising guy at the time and had just written my first one or two small articles. Stephen was the first to congratulate me and encourage me to do more. I just thought wow, if Stephen Walker thinks my stuff is ok, then maybe I should pursue it more. I’m not alone in saying thank you Stephen for your immense contribution to the Australian music scene, you really left your mark and we’re going to miss you but we’ll never forget you. RIP Ghost.
The family would like their privacy at this difficult time. Details of a memorial service and celebration of The Ghost’s life will be released soon.