If you have ever bought a record, rushed home, and spent hours reading every single word on the inner sleeve, you share a spirit with Glenn A Baker. The celebrated Australian music journalist, broadcaster, and historian has passed away at the age of 74, just three days after celebrating his birthday.
For decades, Baker was the undisputed king of music trivia. In the mid-1980s, he took on the world and won the BBC’s “Rock Brain of the Universe” title not just once, but three times. He simply knew more about music than anyone else in the room, and likely anyone else on the planet.
A Career Built on Pure Obsession
Baker’s impact on the music industry is hard to overstate. In the mid-1970s, he was part of a crucial research project that led to the creation of 2JJ, the radio station that would eventually evolve into the global youth network, triple j. He started out hosting a trivia program there before taking his talents elsewhere.
But radio was just one piece of the puzzle. Baker served as the Australian editor of Billboard magazine for over 20 years, co-founded the record label Raven Records, managed the band Ol’55, and wrote 17 books. If that was not enough, he penned the liner notes for more than 600 albums.
Baker’s lifelong obsession started young. After leaving school at 15 to help support his family, he was completely captivated by seeing The Beatles on television. From there, music became a lifeline.
The Man Behind the Brimless Hats
To the public, Baker was instantly recognisable. He was famous for his signature brimless hats and an absolutely staggering personal collection that included 80,000 vinyl records and around 30,000 CDs. He was such a beloved cultural figure that a portrait of him won the Archibald Packing Room Prize in 2010.
Yet, behind the media appearances and the towering stacks of vinyl, he was a dedicated father of six and grandfather to 13. Baker loved sharing his world with his children. He made it a point to take each of them overseas for unique experiences, and they were frequently dragged backstage as his “plus one” to meet global superstars like Mariah Carey.
Following a period of declining health and a previous stroke, Baker leaves behind an incredible legacy. He travelled to more than 150 countries as an accomplished travel writer, but his heart always belonged to the music industry. He lived a life totally consumed by his passion, proving that the best careers are built on the things we truly love.
