Written by: Liam O'Sullivan

Greg Ham: The Saxophonist Who Helped Define Australian Music

Greg Ham, a talented musician and songwriter, is best known for his work as a member of the iconic Australian band Men at Work, a group that dominated the 1980s music scene with hits like "Who Can It Be Now" and "Down Under". As the saxophonist, flautist, and keyboardist for the band, Ham's unique sound and style helped shape the band's distinctive flavor.

Early Life and Education

Born on September 27, 1953, in Melbourne, Australia, Greg Ham grew up with a passion for music and the performing arts. He attended Camberwell Grammar School from 1964 to 1971, where he was known for his acting talents in school plays, including "The World We Live In" and "Lola Montez".

Rise to Fame with Men at Work

In 1979, Ham met Colin Hay, the lead vocalist and guitarist of Men at Work, through mutual friend Kym Gyngell. The two musicians formed the core of the band, which would go on to achieve international success with hits like "Business as Usual" and "Cargo". Ham's saxophone solos and flute riffs became an integral part of the band's sound, helping to define the Australian music landscape of the 1980s.

Awards and Accolades

In 1983, Ham, as a member of Men at Work, won a Grammy Award for Best New Artist, cementing the band's status as one of the most successful and influential acts of the decade.

Lawsuit and Plagiarism Accusation

In 2009, music publisher Larrikin Music sued Men at Work and their record label EMI, alleging that the flute riff in "Down Under" copied the 1934 nursery rhyme "Kookaburra", to which they owned the publishing rights. The Federal Court of Australia ultimately ruled in favor of Larrikin Music, sparking a controversy that would follow Ham and the band for years to come.

Legacy and Impact on Australian Music

Despite the controversy, Greg Ham's contributions to Australian music cannot be overstated. As a member of Men at Work, he helped to create a unique sound that blended pop, rock, and folk influences, and his saxophone and flute playing added a distinctive flavor to the band's music. Ham's legacy continues to inspire new generations of Australian musicians, and his work with Men at Work remains an integral part of the country's musical heritage.

Personal Life and Later Years

After leaving Men at Work in 1985, Ham continued to pursue a solo career, releasing several albums and performing with various bands. He also worked as a session musician and composer, contributing to soundtracks and jingles.Sadly, Greg Ham passed away on April 19, 2012, leaving behind a legacy of music that continues to endure.

Quotes and Memorable Sayings

• "I just love playing music, it's a way of expressing myself."
• "I've always been drawn to the saxophone, it's just such a soulful instrument."

Influence on Pop Culture

Men at Work's music, including hits like "Who Can It Be Now" and "Down Under", have been featured in numerous films, TV shows, and commercials, introducing Greg Ham's saxophone and flute playing to new audiences. The band's music has also been covered and sampled by numerous artists, ensuring Ham's work continues to be heard and appreciated by new generations.

Trivia and Fun Facts

• Greg Ham was an avid surfer and loved spending time at the beach.
• He was known for his sense of humor and was often the prankster of the band.
• Ham was a talented visual artist and created artwork for Men at Work's album covers.