Michael McMartin Resigns as Hoodoo Gurus Manager Due to Health Issues

Michael McMartin, the legendary artist manager who has guided the Hoodoo Gurus’ career for four decades, is stepping away due to “ongoing health issues.”

Born in Canada, McMartin is a doyen in his field, and much-loved by his clients and peers.

After relocating to Australia in 1971, he went on to establish Trafalgar Records with Charles Fisher, a studio professional.

Later, in 1982, he spotted and signed the Gurus to their first record deal and took on management duties in 1985, through his company Melody Management. The Gurus were his first clients.

That relationship became the stuff of legend — and many hits — culminating in induction into the ARIA Hall of Fame in 2007. The Gurus’ debut Stoneage Romeos is a ripper, earning a spot in Rolling Stone Australia’s list of 200 greatest Australian albums.

McMartin has been the man of honour on several occasions, receiving APRA’s Ted Albert Award for contribution to Australian music in 2007, the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) for “services to the performing arts, especially music” (2015), and he’s the reigning Legacy Award winner at the 2023 AAM Awards, inducted by another great of artist management, John Watson.

McMartin was a founding member of the Music Managers’ Forum in Australia, formed and launched in 2007.

“We are devastated by this sudden turn of events however we are incredibly proud of everything we have achieved together,” comments Hoodoo Gurus frontman Dave Faulkner in a statement issued today (Feb. 22).

“In one way or another, Michael has been by our side every step of the way throughout our career and it goes without saying that his role in our success has been pivotal. It is impossible to express how we are feeling right now, but there are enormous feelings of gratitude for everything that Michael has done for us as we recollect the life-changing experiences we have all shared.”

Mick Mazzone of Mighty Management will assist McMartin and the Gurus in this transition and future activities, the statement reads.

“What a unique and extraordinary life I have been gifted, working with the Hoodoo Gurus and sharing in so many of the experiences that have made them such an iconic part of Australian culture,” comments McMartin.

“Through my 40 plus years with them I have had the privilege of meeting so many incredible people throughout the world, including their fans, peers and the Gurus’ family. Having an integral part of that family, in Mick Mazzone, take over management in the next few weeks ensures the band’s legacy and future are in safe hands.”

He signs off, “I really can’t find the words to express my feelings at this time but respect, love and gratitude would be among them. Thanks to the Hoodoo Gurus I have lived a life that I only otherwise could have dreamt of.”