Martin Phillipps, the enigmatic and innovative lead singer of the New Zealand indie rock band The Chills, has passed away. He was 65 years old. Phillipps was a key figure in shaping the country’s music scene in the 1980s and ’90s with his distinctive voice and poetic lyrics. Born on January 5, 1956, Phillipps grew up in Dunedin and began his musical career in the late 1970s as a member of the Dunedin-based punk band The Wrinklies. In 1985, he formed The Chills, which would go on to release several critically acclaimed albums throughout the ’80s and ’90s. Phillipps’ unique vocal style, which blended elements of punk, new wave, and folk, was a defining characteristic of The Chills’ sound. His lyrics often explored themes of love, loss, and social commentary, earning him widespread acclaim from fans and critics alike. Despite his passing, Martin Phillipps will be remembered for his remarkable contributions to the world of music and his unwavering dedication to his craft.