CAUSE OF DEATH: Ron S Peno of Died Pretty, confirmed dead as he died of cancer

CAUSE OF DEATH: Ron S Peno of Died Pretty, confirmed dead as he died of cancer.

Ron S Peno CAUSE OF DEATH: Ron S. Peno – the redoubtable lead singer of Died Pretty, The Superstitions and The Darling Downs – has died after a battle with cancer. He was 68.

A friend spotted me scribbling the descriptions in my little notebook. He leaned over and grabbed my arm. “Add one to the list: national treasure.”

Ron S. Peno – the redoubtable lead singer of Died Pretty, The Superstitions and The Darling Downs – has died after a battle with cancer. He was 68.

In a music world where originality is in short supply, Ron was a remarkable one-off. There was something magical about seeing Ron on stage. He seemed to get lost in the music. These weren’t rehearsed rock moves; Ron felt it.

The 1990s albums, Doughboy Hollow, Trace and Sold, appeared on the Australian Recording Industry Association (ARIA) album charts but the band enjoyed more success on the alternative scene.

Peno was diagnosed with oesophageal cancer in 2019 and he underwent multiple treatments and major surgery.

In early 2021, the cancer was discovered to have moved to his brain.

“Ron displayed a resolute positivity and a profound depth of character that has proved inspirational to his fellow band members, manager and many friends,” a statement from the band said.