Posts by Mark Gibson
The Story Behind Divinyls’ “I Touch Myself”
In 1990, Divinyls released a song that would not only define their career but also leave an indelible mark on the music world. “I Touch Myself” was a bold, sultry anthem that captured the spirit of the 90s with its infectious melody and unapologetic lyrics. The single was released through the Virgin label with the…
Read MoreThe Story Behind INXS’s “Original Sin”
In 1983, INXS released the single that would catapult them into the mainstream and solidify their place in Australian music history: “Original Sin.” The track, written by the band’s frontman Michael Hutchence and keyboardist Andrew Farriss, was the first single from their fourth album, The Swing. It was a groundbreaking moment for the band, not…
Read MoreJohnny O’Keefe’s “She’s My Baby” – A Double Chart-Topper
Explore the history of Johnny O’Keefe’s ‘She’s My Baby,’ the Australian rock and roll classic that topped charts twice, cementing J.O.K. as a music legend.
Read MoreHow “Sadie (The Cleaning Lady)” Made John Farnham a Star
Before “You’re the Voice” catapulted him to international fame, John Farnham was a young pop star breaking through with an unlikely hit. “Sadie (The Cleaning Lady),” released in November 1967 through the Columbia label, was the song that launched his career—but not without some reluctance from Farnham himself. At just 18, Farnham wasn’t thrilled about…
Read MoreThe Story Behind Daryl Braithwaite’s “You’re My World”
In 1974, Daryl Braithwaite stepped into the spotlight as a solo artist with his rendition of “You’re My World.” Released through the Infinity label, this heartfelt ballad became an instant classic and marked the beginning of Braithwaite’s journey outside of Sherbet, the band that had already made him a household name. But did you know…
Read MoreJim Kelly and Barry Leef interviewed on their album Who Is Who
Jim Kelly and Barry Leef recently collaborated on an original album called Who Is Who. These guys go way back to bands like Crossfire, Bakery, and Supermarket. They toured extensively together in Supermarket but this is their first recording together. I was lucky enough to be able to interview them both about this project and found them great storytellers.
Read MoreThe Zarsoff Brothers Live At Yella Rock 1991
I was contacted a little while back by Ian “Piggy” Peel from the Australian Road Crew Association to say that he’d got hold of some recordings from the Yella Rock Concert in 1991. Luckily, some of those recordings are now being released. This one is particularly special as I became friends with Peter “Izzy Foreal”…
Read MoreAustralian Music Roll Of Honour For 2020
This year sadly saw a number of prominent musicians pass away so I’d like to honour them here with the Australian Music Roll Of Honour For 2020. If there is someone I’ve overlooked, please let me know in the comments and I’ll add them to the list. I’d also love to read your thoughts and…
Read MoreAustralian Gig Guide and Chart Listings for November 1979
In November 1979 our Prime Minister was Malcolm Fraser. The average weekly wage was $245 and you could buy a brand spanking new Toyota Celica for $7,999 or a superceded Datsun 200B for only $4,999. The Australian Cricket Team was touring India. The first New South Wales Lotto draw took place and guess what? No one…
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