An elemental force present at the creation of Australian rock n' roll, Johnny O'Keefe converted incredible drive, a tremendous flair for showmanship and a larrikin spirit into status as this country's first rock star and, two decades after his death, a national icon.Johnny was dead at 43, after 30 hit singles and 28 albums, and a succession of (self-inflicted) disasters - a near fatal car crash, a much publicised series of nervous breakdowns, bouts of alcoholism and drug addiction.His influence was immense; few in the world of popular music begrudged him the title of 'the King of Australian Rock n' Roll'. Today, 'Shout', 'Wild One', 'I'm Counting on You' and 'Sing' remain as indelible hallmarks of the early years of Australian rock n' roll. They were years of immense energy, with 'The Wild One' at the centre.