Glenn A Baker dies aged 74

In a statement shared on Baker's official Facebook page, his family said: "It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Glenn A. Baker AM. Glenn passed away this morning, 31 July 2026, three days after his 74th birthday."

The statement continued: "Glenn's contribution to the Australian rock 'n' roll music landscape was immense, but his family remembers him as a loving father of six and grandfather of thirteen."

Baker was best known for his encyclopaedic knowledge of popular music, winning the BBC's Rock Brain of the Universe competition three times during the 1980s and building a career that spanned radio, publishing, broadcasting and music history.

A career spanning radio, publishing and Australian music

Baker was involved in the research project that led to the creation of 2JJ in the mid-1970s, the station that would later become triple j.

He began his broadcasting career hosting a music trivia program on the station before later joining Triple M.

Beyond radio, Baker managed Australian rock and roll band Ol'55 and co-founded Raven Records in 1979. He also served as editor of Billboard magazine for more than two decades, authored 17 books and wrote liner notes for more than 600 albums.

Recognisable for his trademark brimless hats, Baker often spoke of his extensive music collection, which reportedly included around 80,000 records and 30,000 CDs.

Family reflects on his life

Speaking to ABC Radio Sydney, Baker's son Orson said his father had been unwell for some time after previously suffering a stroke.

He described Baker as "somebody who absolutely grabbed life, throttled it, and did everything that he wanted to do".

Orson said his father's childhood involved frequent moves across regional New South Wales.

"Subsequently I think music became something he could cling to, something that brought him joy," he said.

According to Baker's biography, he left school at 15 to help support his family after becoming inspired by seeing The Beatles perform on television.

"Growing up, the most exciting thing was going out to purchase a new record to bring that record home, to open it up and to read the inner sleeve, the comments, the notes by the band, the photos," Orson said.

"He visited over 150 countries, became an accomplished travel writer, and I guess music was his absolute passion," he said, noting Australian music remained a lifelong focus.

Tributes begin

Music journalist Stuart Coupe announced Baker's passing on social media.

"I'm beyond sad," Coupe posted.

"This is a post that I was hoping I wouldn't be making."

In its statement, Baker's family encouraged Australians to celebrate his legacy through the music he championed.

"Glenn's passion for music, travel, food and his family (still not entirely sure of the order) was, like his personality, larger than life."

While requesting privacy, the family added: "If you do wish to honour Glenn or continue his legacy in some way, have a passionate conversation today with somebody about your favourite Australian muso or band."

"Rock on Glenn! You will be missed."