James Valentine, the Australian broadcaster and musician, has died at 64, prompting tributes from across the country’s music and media circles.
In public tributes, artists and industry figures remembered Valentine as a warm, sharp and deeply creative presence. Jimmy Barnes was among those who shared condolences, while INXS also honored his connection to Australia’s music culture.
Valentine was widely known for his long-running work in radio, where he built a reputation for thoughtful interviews, dry humor and an easy connection with listeners. Before becoming a familiar voice on air, he was also active as a musician, including work as a saxophonist.
His career crossed several parts of Australian entertainment, from music and live performance to broadcasting and television. That range helped make him a recognizable figure to different generations of listeners and viewers.
The tributes reflect the broad respect Valentine earned over decades in public life, both for his professional work and for the personal impression he left on colleagues, musicians and audiences.