Legendary Australian keyboard player Peter Jones, who worked with Crowded House, Morrissey, Sandi Shaw and The Little Rover Band to name just a few has died following a long illness. The news was announced on Facebook by Graeham Goble, a founding member of The Little River Band. “David Briggs just called me with the news that Peter Jones passed away last night,” he wrote. “He had been very unwell for some time. His contribution to my musical life was immense…His peerless musicianship was at the very core of so many Little River Band recordings. Indeed… ‘the 5th Beatle’ has left the building.”

David Briggs also took to the platform to pay tribute writing: “Remembering Peter Jones today who passed in the early hours of this morning.The music industry has lost a GIANT TALENT of a Musician, Arranger, Composer and Producer. A much loved member of the music fraternity of Melbourne… His contribution to every project he worked on was immense as was his talent. Fly Free Peter. You were one of a kind. RIP.”

Peter was well known to fans of the band as he played piano on all bar one of the tracks on their debut album. They took to the comments to pay tribute to the star. “My deepest condolences for the passing of such a beautifully creative talented musician who will be greatly missed!! Rest in Peace Peter Jones and thank you for all the amazing music!!” one wrote.

“I am so sorry to hear this. My deepest sympathies and condolences to u Graeham and to his family,” another penned. A third chimed in: “Sad news rest in eternal peace Peter Australian music will miss you deeply and thank you for your contributions. Condolences to the family.”

“I am so sorry for your loss, and my deepest condolences go out to Peter Jones’s family and friends, my thoughts and prayers are with you all prayers,” a fourth wrote. “Such incredibly sad news. RIP Peter,” a fifth shared.

Meanwhile a sixth recalled: “So sad to hear. Peter was an unbelievable talent, humble, funny and incredibly knowledgeable. He was a real mentor to me, a wonderful musician, supportive and encouraging when I first started writing my first few tentative arrangements. My deepest condolences to his family.”

As well as playing on recordings for Little River Band, Crowded House, The Ferrets, John Farnham and more Peter was also an accomplished producer. The first album he produced in the 1990s was Like Now by Kate Ceberano and Her Sextet.

He also worked with Morrissey as well as collaborating with Sandi Shaw and Prefab Sprout.

Alongside this he released his own well received solo Jazz recordings.

He is survied by his wife Stephani, and his children Rachel, Zac, and Liam.