Swanee Website. Archived News Updates 2005

Archived News 2005

DECEMBER, 2005

CONCERT FOR KIDS - SALISBURY ADELAIDE 27 NOV 2005

Wow as I looked across the sea of faces it seemed I knew everyone or at least recognise their faces. Or was it the faces I see at all these gigs, just friends enjoying a family at work and play!! I now see it on a regular basis, but ask the kids and parent who were there. It is a special vibe that comes from families celebrating the love they feel singularly and collectively from family music they make together!

I'm the BIGGEST fan! When Jim was on, I sat by the crowd barrier on the foor admiring how he "steals" little bits of majic and passes it out like he's handing them a bit each. Sometimes I feel a bit of a dork watching my little brother do his thing. But I'm quickly reminded by the crowd's response, the pleasure he and the children bring to the stage.

Then I'm called up to do my bit and it's like how can I contribute to this? It all becomes clear when I climb the stairs, and I see Wee Jackie, smiling from behind the keyboards and one on Jim's girls tells me to "go for it". He gives me a cuddle ( I won't elaborate on his exact advice), It's inspiring to say the least. The rest is easy, the songs take care of that. My job is to have a good time and try to let those watching feel what it is all about up here. Hopefully this is evident. I saw faces from the past like never before.

As I glanced across the audience I thought I know "everyone", some looked exactly the same as I remembered them (shit it's NOT them it's their kids). A lot of them are no longer with us but I think they made a guest appearance that Sunday afternoon. I hope this part of the evolution of the family show gets to your town. it is really quite unique and I haven't seen anything to beat it yet. Yes I am biast, but usually a pretty good judge of entertainment, that shoud be compulsory family shows they just don't happen often, unless you are big on the "Wiggles". See you all soon and thanks to those that made it a great day.

NOVEMBER, 2005

CLIPSAL 500

We did a show at the Adelaide entertainment centre last friday (18 Nov). It was great! With Mark Seymour and James Reyne, Drivers, Car Owners a collection of beautiful young ladies who attend to things on the grid before the flag drops and of course a smattering of politicians.

Jim and I along with Danny and Dave on guitars did an acoustic verson of "Working Class Man" where we took it verse by verse. It was just a thrill to do that in Adelaide since that is where we grew up.

We flew in around 10.00am and were heading home just after lunch. It was so exciting I've never sung "Working Class Man" before and it was a blast! That was the launch of the Clipsal 500 of course Diesel, David Campbell, Mahalia and the family will all be at the next one in March.

If you get a chance get to Adelaide for it. All AUSTRALIAN rock as it should be.

OCTOBER, 2005

THE PALMS CROWN CASINO WITH JIM & FAMILY

Tour Poster Jimmy Barnes Palms Crown Casino

It was a blast!! Shit, the best fun I've ever had standing up. The venue was perfect, the band was hot and I had a ball. I did

Lady What's Your Name
Hold Your Head Up
If I Were A Carpenter
What Will They Say - with Jim.

It felt like I always wanted it to feel on stage, surrounded by people who love me and I love the same. It was such fun back stage we were wetting ourselves, a great time was had by all. I love those shows where the audience sits and listens to what your doing. Needless to say the fold back and lights were superb JIM'S CREW ROCK!!

When we did my stuff I turned around to see Jim up the back with his three daughters WOW how amazing. Of course Mahalia was telling him what to do, thats her baby she's great and HAS quite a wicked sense of hummer on stage. Towards the end of the show she got down and sung with Jim, Jesus talk about power and taste. It was all there.

I can't tell you how proud I was, I looked across and saw Frank and Michael with Sue Gudinski it was like going into the past when Sue used to be at lots of shows. she looks unbelievable with Big Steve Hands at her side. I felt his presence (he's no longer with us ) but always in my heart.

IT IS A SHOW NOT TO BE MISSED, BE THERE WHEN IT COMES TO YOUR CITY!!

SEPTEMBER, 2005

In this update I'm going to talk about the Big Brother end of show Wrap Party and my friend Darren Dowlut. For those of you who don't know who Darren was, he was one half of the brother songwriting, producing team called "Disco Montego". Darren and Dennis co-wrote and produced the track What Will They Say. The song was was written especially for John and Jim and appears on Jim's new CD Double Happiness. This is the first time that John & Jim have recorded a song together. You can view the video The making of "What Will The Say" in the video library. Double Happiness has been dedicated to honour the memory of Darren Dowlut.

They got up and shook there little arses just like any normal kids do. I have a soft spot for Vesna. She had to go early but she was lovely. She stopped and said “Hello” was very courteous, poor thing was so beat they had such a heavy schedule.

DARREN DOWLUT 1978 - 2005

On a sadder note, I went to Melbourne on Thursday to say goodbye to my dear friend Darren Dowlut. It was touching and a beautiful way to say goodbye for now. It broke my heart, as did everyone there. His brother Dennis was a tower of strength and had just the perfect words for his brother. Dennis finished with "my brother Darren was getting ready to go to the States and he told me not to worry, he was going to the place we all search for Heaven". Not exact as I couldn't hear over all the sobbing it was so moving.

I'm so sad because ALL THE WORLD will never get to hear his potential. He was, and still is in my heart a "genius". I loved him he was such a cool guy. Mahalia, Jim, Diesel and all the troops did a gospel version of "You've Got a Friend"

I just let it go, felt like a cleansing of this old soul. I'm never afraid to show my emotions they're there to let the world know who we are and what touches us. Even in death he bought so many folks together in Love "THAT'S WHAT MAKES THW WORLD SUCH A BEAUTIFUL PLACE". If you give a little love you will receive boundless amounts in return. If you look at unhappiness, that's what you'll see. If you look for joy and love, I promise you nothing gets in the way. Hate and bad stuff only live where love is "absent". Don't be afraid to let people know you love them; it takes great courage to be honest and speak your truth.

JULY, 2005

QUEENSLAND SHOWS WITH RUSSELL MORRIS

The recent tour with Russell Morris was a blast. I used his band, all young guys except for Harry Brus and I, oh yeah and Russell too! We just had the greatest fun and one forgets how many hits Russell has had, and those he has written. He's a great guy and we always have a terrific time together.

I'm about to start recording my new album. I was in Melbourne for Jim's Double Happiness Live Show and DVD at the Prince of Wales. God if those walls could talk! Every band stayed there so you can imagine what went on there after the shows. Mentals wrote a song about me after staying there a few times "Too Many Times" I think it was or "The Nips Are Getting Bigger". I must ask Greedy when I see him next.

Isn't it nice that all the "Old Boys" are still kicking arse and having as much fun doing all the things we couldn't do then. Guess we were too fucked up or maybe just exhausted. Last week we were all chatting away in Melbourne, when the young guys thought we were bullshitting about doing 10 � 15 gigs a week plus appearances on shows like Countdown or Radio Shows before and or after the gig.

We used to drive to Melbourne from Sydney in a stinking old panel van. Everyone Farting, Fighting or snoring ah the Golden Years of Rock n Roll. On the way back up the highway to Sydney or Adelaide we'd stop at a roadhouse or pub and when we got there, we'd find half the music industry also there. We partied all week with toasted sandwiches (for those who could eat). Everyone would swap stories about their conquests or how many women they'd slept with. Usually this was "bullshit", they never slept anywhere except on the highway between gigs. They used to let us know what was happening and what wasn't. Like some I guess an internet chat line. While waiting for a Chico Roll or Ham, Cheese and Tomato Sandwiches for those who paid! Can you imagine doing all those gigs and having to borrow $20 off the crew or agent until the next gig?

Things went a lot further back then, one cask, five Chico rolls was the standard take away order. Jesus those guys could live on, well you just heard what they lived on. I love the life I've led but I wouldn't want my kids or anyone else to do to their bodies what we put ours through. Where was I? oh yeah, Russell was terrific a good time had by all! It seems so funny I'm doing exactly what I want to do in life.

DOUBLE HAPPINESS LAUNCH - ANNANDALE HOTEL, 2005

HUGE! Gig with Jim and the team even better than Annandale, it just fired up. The other special guests were:- my nephew David Campbell (what a boy I love him), Dallas Crane, Tim Rogers, Gary Pinto and of course all of Jim's family. I also got to meet some people that visit my website which was great, particularly "Muttley" (Great Guy)

Now more about the gig, I sat at the side of the stage as Jim proceeded to anilate the crowd on his own and thought Jesus how are we going to top this? He was pumped and that is awesome as usual. Jim calls E.J. up and just melts into this "fatherly figure" who compliments his little girl with the voice and presence of an angel. She is so sweet and gentle, the "Fairy Princess".

Later On, I was standing in the crowd now, as I wanted to see what you guys see and hear from out front. E.J. comes off stage and hugged me; I was just a ball of love and excitement. Elly-May is at my other shoulder assuring me I'll be OK and nothing can go wrong, she loves me and will look out for me. She goes up before me, I walk her to the steps of the stage to make sure she was OK (nerve wise) she's only a baby for Christ sake. Just before she begins to sing she looks across at me and blows me a kiss and gave me that cheeky assuring wink that she does.

I ran out the front. I was lost in the crowd; I had goose bumps shivering through my whole system. Anyway she finishes and I ran back to usher her off. Next thing I heard Jim telling the crowd "about this man who had inspired him in many ways and got him into music" I was just floating on air it was sensational, and then he said my name, fuck he was talking about ME!!!!!

The nerves started, frantically rushing through my whole being as I walked the 5 or so yards to the stage. Elly-May winked again, E.J. smiled as E.J. does. I walked out to be met by Mahalia, she's a woman. She just grinned as if to say it's Ok, Young Jackie Jim's son and my golden boy started the piano introduction. It was surreal.

I thought this is just magic, then I heard the crowd's response they seemed very pleased to see me there! Jim handed me a mic, it was perfect! I now know what I'm here for!! I want to touch people's hearts the way I was just guided through my fear with such love and compassion.

The song "What Will They Say" is a blessing and I said a little prayer for Darren and launched into the lyrics. Having been through "troubled waters" what I have seen, it was like I was being shown my lot "I'm loved" by a beautiful group of people and that's just the band and crew!

It was nearly over now, but on the way past some real heart wrenching lyrics I was reminded that life is for loving and giving and to enjoy this moment. Not Tomorrow, Not yesterday but NOW!!!!! God, I could have remained on that stage forever, and part of me will from now on. This is what I always wanted and needed, just to be "myself" no bullshit warts and all. I was truly grateful for every second, the crowd noise was great, but my heart couldn't heart it for the sound of joy and peace!

I came off and the rest of the show just kept going up and up. It was over. I found myself wandering aimlessly along St Kilda Road for a few Km's. It was cold yet I felt so warm! I hope you don't mind me sharing my thoughts and sense of pride with you all? I've felt the cold when love is missing and it was painful but these days my heart is filled with the joy sober people take for granted. I've never been healthier or happier. Life is GOOD.

Live Life to the fullest and be good to one another! Till next time, Love and Peace to ALL!

MAY, 2005

ROCKS RHYTHM CRUISE - SWANEE LIVE ON SYDNEY HARBOUR

Well a lot has been happening lately. If you didn't get the opportunity to come on the "Rocks Rhythm Boat Cruise" that we did in Sydney back in April you really missed a great gig. The gig was a sell out. A beautiful sunny day on the magnificent Sydney Harbour. It was great to get "Up Close & Personal" with everyone and we all had a great time! You can view photos of the Harbour Cruise in the Image Gallery.

As stated in the last news update I was in the process of negotiations with Liberation Records, I am pleased to say I have now signed with them and am in the process of looking at some new songs as we speak.

LIBERATION ALBUM - DOUBLE HAPPINESS

Speaking of which, my brother Jim's new album "Double Happiness, originally named 2UP will be released on the 18th July, 2005. On this CD is the song that Jim and I recorded together called "What Will They Say" watch the making of "What Will They Say" in the Video section.

Jim is in the early stages of putting a nationally tour together which will feature the artists that perform on the "Double Happiness" CD as well as an exclusive show for the filming of the DVD.

ADELAIDE GIG WITH THE ORIGINAL ANGELS BAND

I received a telephone call inviting me to do a gig with the Brewster Brothers John & Rick in the Original Angels Band. I checked to see if Doc would be OK about it, everyone assured me he would. In fact he's flat out with his new solo project which is a delight to know. I really like Doc he's a great man and a good friend.

Anyway, more about the show, I flew into Sydney and had a run through with John and Rick Brewster at John's place. We then flew to Adelaide, good old Adelaide and went to it. The gig was held at the Gawler Races. John and Rick went out first with Buzz and Chris and did the Angels songs and then I came on a while later and gave it an almighty kick up the clacker. It was fantastic; the crowd of about 2,000 loved it. The remarkable thing was when we started "If I Were A Carpenter" the crowd all started singing, It was so LOUD I was dumb founded. It was a hoot to say the least, and I will definitely do more of this style of show when requested. I may do a few gigs with the Brewster Brothers as well. I'm really enjoying the different interpretation everyone has of each other's work.

I guess that's what it's all about perception and enjoyment. I might do something like the Brewster's do with some "old friends" (Sharon O'Neill) or Broderick Smith (Dingo's) both great singers and song writers. Broderick is a good stage man too he loves working the audience, old school style. In fact, I think I will what's Broderick's number anyone out there?

ON THE HOME FRONT

Back on the home front, I have been really busy with my teaching lessons, the Music Express Shop and relocating into our new home.

The Music Express Shop is located at Mt Gravatt, and I'll be here from time to time so if you are ever up that way drop in and say hello. Virginia has been just as busy settling into her new job and launching her skin care range.

We have just recently purchased a house at Mt Tambourine, in Queensland. The Rainforest views are to die for. We have only just moved in so as you can imagine there is a lot to do.

CHANNEL 9 DOCUMENTARY

Finally, back to Adelaide again, this time with my brother Jim to Elizabeth, the place where we grew up for the filming of a documentary. The documentary is for Channel Nine and will go to air (later this year?). I obviously can't tell too much or I'll give away the story but it's sort of a 60 Minutes meets Australian Story. Will let you all know when it's going to air so you can watch it stay tuned.

As you can see it's been a hectic time and I've been at it flat stick. So, till next time!

FEBRUARY, 2005

It looks like I may have a contract with Liberation Records and will keep you posted on that one as more information comes to hand.I will be touring in April with my band "Swanee", take a look at the Tours Page for the upcoming gigs.

Due to the extremely positive responses from my shows in Adelaide at Eagle On The Hill in November, 2004 I've been asked to come back and do it all again. The shows will be in June, and again you can see the Tours Page advising dates for these shows.

Later in the year I will also be doing the national tour with Jim's "Barnes Family Tour" and will let you know about those shows a little further down the track!

I've got a little project going with Neil Brooks. The thing with "Brooksy" will be a blast! We've got a band of young guys up here and will work doing some fun "good time shows". Neil's like a young brother. He's the gold medalist who started "THE MEAN MACHINE". He shaved his head to get them so focused and pumped! They blitzed everything in their path! He's also a mother f---er of a guitarist and great golfer.

One of the guys I work with at Guitar Central is just the best blues player I've ever heard. His name is Craig Claxton. He's off to the States in February so when he returns we will record and play live. His partner Caroline is a great percussionist and a fine singer. I think we will have a girl drummer and bass player for these and it will be a lovely change. [No offence Mick O'Shea you're beautiful too].

The Blues project I'm working on with Craig, takes me back to when I was young. I started playing drums in a Blues band and just love the vocal phrasing. I'm still teaching Vocal Tuition four days a week as well as those projects I've just mentioned so as you can see I'm busy.

It's a great place Queensland, I'm really happy we made the lifestyle change. Everyone I've meet is enthusiastic and will do anything to play. I'm truly blessed to get to work with the players I have. All the guys in "Swanee" are just fabulous and could hold they're own anywhere in the world! I'm really looking forward to working with them again in April.