Overview

Steven William Prestwich (5 March 1954 – 16 January 2011) was an English-born drummer and songwriter who became a prominent figure in Australian rock music. Born in Liverpool, he emigrated with his family to Adelaide in Australia in the early 1970s. He is best known for his long association with the hard-edged pub rock band Cold Chisel and, later, his stint with the Little River Band. Prestwich combined steady, creative drumming with an ability to write enduring songs that became staples of Australian radio and concert set lists.

Career and development

In Adelaide, Prestwich helped form a band initially called Orange, which evolved into Cold Chisel after relocating and reorganising in the mid-1970s. As Cold Chisel's drummer he provided a solid rhythmic foundation that supported the group's intense stage presence and diverse songwriting. When the original Cold Chisel lineup disbanded in 1983, Prestwich joined the Little River Band and contributed to two of their studio releases before later returning to Cold Chisel for reunion tours in 1998 and 2003. Plans to record new material with Cold Chisel were discussed around 2011.

Songwriting and musical style

Prestwich was unusual among rock drummers for his consistent songwriting contributions. His compositions often paired melodic feeling with straightforward rock arrangements and storytelling lyrics. Several of his songs became among Cold Chisel's most recognised numbers, balancing the group's gritty sound with memorable hooks and emotional resonance.

  • Notable songs by Prestwich: "When the War Is Over", "Forever Now", "Flame Trees", "Nothin' But You", "Monica", "Best Kept Lies".
  • "When the War Is Over" was also recorded with John Farnham during Prestwich's time with the Little River Band, illustrating the song's wider appeal (John Farnham).

Solo work and later years

Outside of his band work, Prestwich released two solo albums: Since You've Been Gone (2000) and Every Highway (2009). These records presented a more intimate side of his songwriting and musicianship, with acoustic elements and a focus on melody and lyrical reflection rather than the louder dynamics of his band projects. He continued to perform and write until his health declined.

Legacy and notable facts

Prestwich is remembered both for his dependable, musical drumming and for songs that have become part of the Australian rock canon. "Flame Trees" and "When the War Is Over" in particular are frequently cited as highlights of Cold Chisel's catalogue and have been covered or performed by other artists. His dual role as instrumentalist and songwriter helped set him apart in a scene often dominated by frontmen and lead guitarists.

Death

Steve Prestwich died on 16 January 2011 after complications from surgery to treat a brain tumour. His passing was noted by peers, fans and media as the loss of a musician who made a lasting contribution to Australian popular music through both performance and composition.