Singer Chris Doheny, known for Geisha and ‘More Than A Game’, passes away at 64

Chris Doheny, a prominent singer, songwriter, and frontman hailing from Melbourne, tragically passed away in a fatal road accident on the Thiele Highway near Kings Bridge Road, Kapunda. The unfortunate incident took place on Friday, September 19, 2025. Reports from the South Australia police confirmed that Chris was driving alone at the time, and the other driver involved in the accident emerged unharmed.

Chris Doheny’s impact on the Australian music industry spanned over four decades, characterized by his unique voice, heartfelt songwriting, and unwavering commitment to his artistry.

Growing up in Melbourne, Doheny was surrounded by the sounds of iconic bands like The Beatles and rock legends from the 60s and 70s. His passion for music and performance led him through various bands during his youth, culminating in the formation of Geisha in 1983 with his brother Donoghue Doheny, John Nyman, Ken Sheppard, and Peter Robertson. Initially known as Geisha Detail, the band soon streamlined their name to Geisha, inked a deal with EMI, and embarked on making a mark in the competitive Australian music landscape.

Infused with the essence of 70s rock glamour and the chic styling of the New Romantic movement, Geisha quickly gained popularity in the Melbourne live music scene for their energetic performances and Chris Doheny’s commanding stage presence. Their debut single “Fool’s Way” started climbing the national charts in April 1985, paving the way for their self-titled debut album’s release later that year. Hits like “Rainy Day” and “Kabuki” solidified their place in the music scene, with the latter soaring to number one on the Melbourne charts and earning them a coveted spot on Countdown.

As Geisha’s lineup solidified in 1986, they released “Part Time Love Affair,” a captivating 80s pop track that became their biggest hit, reaching number 24 nationally and number 3 in Melbourne. Their success continued with singles like “Girl Like You,” and the band embarked on extensive tours, including performances at Rockin’ The Rails alongside Painters and Dockers.

Despite Geisha’s popularity, the band faced challenges with their second album “Midnight to Dawn” in 1987. While singles like “Calling Your Name” and “Normal People” showcased their talent, the album struggled to replicate their earlier triumphs, leading to the disbandment of Geisha in mid-1988 after several lineup changes.

Undeterred by the setback, Doheny channeled his songwriting prowess into collaborations with artists like Daryl Braithwaite, James Blundell, and Lee Kernaghan. His solo breakthrough came in 1994 with “More Than A Game,” the iconic anthem for Nine’s The Footy Show, which resonated with AFL fans nationwide.

Throughout the 90s and 2000s, Doheny continued to explore new musical directions, reuniting Geisha’s original lineup for special performances and releasing solo singles like “Can You Hear the Rain” and his cover of Foo Fighters’ “Times Like These.” His enduring dedication to music culminated in the completion of Geisha’s “lost” third album and the release of compilations that celebrated the band’s legacy.

Chris Doheny’s musical journey, from humble pub gigs to national acclaim, reflected his unwavering passion and commitment to his craft. His legacy lives on through the timeless hits of Geisha and the enduring anthem “More Than A Game,” which symbolize his indelible impact on Australian music and culture.