Posts by Mark Gibson
How “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 The average weekly wage was $245 and you could buy a brand spanking new Toyota Celica for $7,999 or a superceded Datsun 200B for only $4,999.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…
Read MoreVertical Hold
I have to extend a huge thank you to Noel Forth who supplied the following information on South Australian band Vertical Hold. This is a mammoth effort and it is very much appreciated. 1970’s Mick Michalopoulos & Jim Mountzouris were school friends who started their band in the early 1970’s. The band was originally known…
Read MoreFranky Valentyn – All In A Dream Review
This album was a genuine surprise to me when I first heard it, a wonderful surprise. You see, I was well aware of the quality of Frank’s musicianship as I’d had the pleasure of hearing him play numerous times over the years and anyone who has seen him work will understand just what a talented…
Read MoreSkeleton Crew – Propaganda
Way back in 1986 I was the sound engineer for Bandanna. Their manager was a guy called Steve Rondo who owned the “Rock Depot” rehearsal studio in Liverpool. Steve would keep an eye out for good up and coming bands to use as support acts for Bandanna and that’s how I first met the folks…
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