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Chrissy Amphlett

Chrissy Amphlett 

Australian Rock Icon, Singer, and Actress

(1959–2013)

“Hers was a life of passion and creativity; she always lived it to the fullest. With her force of character and vocal strength, she paved the way for strong, sexy, outspoken women.”1 — Charley Drayton

Chrissy Amphlett is remembered as an Australian rock icon whose influence transcended music. As the bold, captivating lead singer of the Divinyls, she challenged societal norms and redefined femininity. With her magnetic stage presence, unique voice, and unapologetic attitude, Chrissy became a global icon inspiring countless fans who continue to celebrate her legacy.

Born Christine Joy Amphlett in Geelong, Victoria, Chrissy’s mother Mary encouraged her to pursue performance from an early age. Having modelled from the age of three, Chrissy began performing with the Geelong Musical Comedy Company at age ten, where she was trained in stagecraft and vocal skills. Her cousin, Patricia Amphlett— known as 1960’s pop sensation Little Pattie—provided a glimpse into the life of a successful performer, further fueling Chrissy’s ambition. With her daring spirit, Chrissy busked her way through Europe at 17, before returning to Melbourne to captivate audiences as Linda Lips in the provocative musical Let My People Come.

The Divinyls

In 1980 Chrissy met guitarist Mark McEntee in 1980, which led to the formation of the Divinyls. Their first major breakthrough came in 1982 with “Boys in Town” from the Monkey Grip soundtrack, soaring into the top ten. Chrissy’s electrifying performance earned her a nomination for Best Supporting Actress, solidifying her status as a force in the Australian music scene. The success of their debut album, Desperate (1983), marked Divinyls as one of Australia’s most dynamic rock bands. Over the next two decades, Chrissy and the Divinyls pushed the boundaries of rock music, releasing five albums that redefined the genre. Their 1991 hit “I Touch Myself” became a global sensation, praised not only for its provocative lyrics but also for its deeper message about self-love and empowerment. This track solidified Chrissy’s place in rock history, known for both its boldness and sincerity. In 2006, the Divinyls were inducted into the ARIA Hall of Fame, recognising their significant contribution to Australian music.

Versatility as a Performer

In 1988, Chrissy starred opposite Russell Crowe in the first Australian production of Willy Russell’s stage musical Blood Brothers, , showcasing her exceptional vocal range and acting talent. Later, she portrayed Judy Garland in The Boy from Oz (1998–2000) channeling Garland’s vulnerability and spirit with remarkable depth. In 2006 upon its return to Australia as an arena spectacular, Chrissy resumed playing the role with Hugh Jackman portraying Peter Allen 4.

 

Pleasure and Pain

“For all of you who’ve accompanied me on my Journey from Belmont to the Big Apple via heaven and Hell, I say thanks for staying with me for the ride. Just don’t ask me to apologise”2– Chrissy Amphlett

Amid Chrissy’s remarkable achievements, she also faced personal battles with her husband, Charley Drayton at her side. In 2007, she disclosed her diagnosis of multiple sclerosis, shortly before the Divinyls disbanded in 2009. One year later, in 2010, she faced another major challenge with breast cancer. Her autobiography, Pleasure and Pain, provides a raw glimpse into her life, revealing both the triumphs and struggles of her journey.

Legacy and “I Touch Myself” Project – Breast Cancer

“I Touch Myself is so important now, more than ever; it really should be the breast cancer song,” Chrissy Amphlett

After Chrissy’s passing in 2013, her iconic hit evolved into an anthem for Breast Cancer Awareness.

Her husband Charley, cousin Pattie, and numerous collaborators launched the “I Touch MyselfProject”, reaching over 400 million people worldwide and encouraged self-examinationo highlight the importance of early detection..

In addition, a charitable organisation, itouchmyselfproject.org, was created in her memory.

Commemoration – Amphlett Lane

“Venues are torn down. Cassettes break, posters fade, T-shirts fall apart. Chrissy’s lane is a way of preserving our memories”3.

The vibrant spirit of Chrissy Amphlett was immortalised with the creation of Amphlett Lane in Melbourne. This tribute emerged from a passionate 19-month campaign led by journalist Jessica Adams and “Team Chrissy,” which included music writer Jenny Valentish, Charley Drayton, Little Pattie, Marcia Mason and Amphlett’s literary agent, Fran Moore. Their efforts garnered support from over 7,000 fans, highlighting Chrissy’s profound impact on the music scene and her community.

Amphlett Lane features a commemorative plaque and a striking mural by Peter Gouldthorpe, depicting Chrissy’s iconic schoolgirl tunic alongside her beloved dogs. Since its creation,the laneway has attracted over 2 million visitors, serving as a vibrant reminder of Chrissy and the enduring power of her music.

This Biography was written by Her Place Women’s Museum in consultation with Charley Drayton, Patricia Amphlett,  Marcia Mason, Jessica Adams and  Jenny Valentish.

Photo: Chrissy Amphlett – Photographer Tony Notarberardino

Music

Books

Articles

Online Resources

Websites

1 Drayton, C (23 Apr 2013) She touched others, too, Sydney Morning Herald

2 Amphlett, C with Writer L, Pleasure and Pain – My Life, Hachette, 2005

3 https://www.onlymelbourne.com.au/amphlett-lane

4 Blackman, Guy (6 August 2006). “A lady on the stage”. The Age. Retrieved 26 April 2013.