Music industry legend Michael Gudinski set for rock star send-off

Australian music fans will farewell industry titan Michael Gudinski at a state memorial featuring performances and speeches from stars he helped mould.

Melbourne‘s Rod Laver Arena will be the stage for his rock star send-off, with speculation rife English singer-songwriter Ed Sheeran is among those set to perform on Wednesday night.

Gudinski, who died suddenly in his sleep on March 2 at age 68, was a friend and mentor of the pop star.

‘Michael was a tornado of joy,’ Mr Sheeran wrote of the Mushroom Group founder after learning of his death.

‘You would know he arrived in the building just by hearing the chaotic bark of his, and you could feel the room get excited about the arrival of his presence.

‘He was such a force, and would make everyone feel like they were the most important person to him.’

As well as live performances, the memorial will include tributes and speeches celebrating Gudinski’s ‘significant contribution to the Australian and international music industry and the state of Victoria’.

‘Michael’s passion for music was legendary and his advocacy for artists established him as a much loved, respected and admired leader in the industry in Australia and overseas,’ the event web page reads.

Arena seating has been reserved for official guests, family, friends, colleagues and industry representatives, with some tickets also allocated to registered members of the public.

Organisers are reminding guests not to take pictures during the event.

The memorial is expected to run for two and a half hours and will be live-streamed on Youtube from 7pm.