Tributes Pour In for Late Musician Alan Mansfield

Renowned keyboardist and producer Alan Mansfield has passed away at the age of 72. Mansfield, an influential figure in the music industry, died in Sydney on October 16, 2023, from complications related to his cancer treatment. His partner of 40 years, musician Sharon O’Neill, was by his side, along with family during his final moments.

Upon confirming his passing, O’Neill shared a heartfelt tribute on social media, stating, “Yesterday morning I lost the love of my life, Alan. His daughter Lauren and I were with him, and he passed comfortably and peacefully.” O’Neill noted that although Mansfield battled cancer for three years, “the ravages of his radiation treatment took a toll on his poor body.” She also described him as “brave and fearless,” adding that his healthcare team were amazed at his perseverance and held him in high regard.

Born in the United States, Mansfield had a prolific career that spanned decades. He was a member of the Australian/New Zealand rock band Dragon for 20 years and also spent 27 years with the Robert Palmer Band. He and O’Neill collaborated on numerous projects, co-writing songs for both Dragon and Robert Palmer, in addition to contributing to O’Neill’s albums ‘Danced Into the Fire’ and ‘Edge of Winter’.

Mansfield was known for his multi-instrumental talents and was a graduate of the Boston Conservatory of Music. His work extended beyond band performances; he played guitar on the ‘Johnny and Mary’ single from Palmer’s album ‘Clues’, and worked with Bette Midler, eventually relocating to Australia in 1982 after touring with her band in 1979.

He is credited with producing Dragon’s hit single ‘Rain’ before joining the band and formed a personal and professional partnership with O’Neill on their ‘Body and the Beat Tour’ in 1984. Mansfield’s contributions to the music industry were recognized with his induction into the ARIA Hall of Fame as part of Dragon in 2008. He also received a Legacy award with the band at the NZ Music Hall of Fame in 2011.