Jimmy Barnes Announces New Album and Tour Amidst Health Challenges

Image credits: Nine

Australian rock singer Jimmy Barnes has announced his new album Defiant and a six-date national tour, despite battling a series of health issues in recent years. The 68-year-old Cold Chisel frontman underwent open-heart surgery in late 2023 and had emergency surgery in August 2024 when an infection returned to his hip. However, Barnes describes himself as "fighting fit" after a recent check-up on his heart surgery, and he is eager to get back on stage and perform his new music.

Barnes's new album Defiant is set to be released on June 6, and the first single, New Day, was released on Monday. The album's title reflects Barnes's defiant attitude towards his health challenges, which he believes have made him a stronger person. Barnes says he was often writing new lyrics from a hospital bed while recovering from surgery, and the experience has inspired some of his best work. The album will feature a mix of rock and roll and soulful ballads, showcasing Barnes's versatility as a singer-songwriter.

In addition to his new album, Barnes has also announced a national tour, which will see him perform in theatres across Australia, including Adelaide, Perth, Canberra, Melbourne, Brisbane, and Sydney. The tour will feature a nine-piece band, including Barnes's daughter Mahalia on backing vocals and his son Jackie on drums. Barnes is looking forward to getting back on stage and performing his new music to a live audience, and he is excited to share the experience with his family and fans. The tour is expected to be a high-energy show, with Barnes performing a mix of his new material and classic hits.

Barnes's tour schedule is as follows:

• June 10: Adelaide
• June 12: Perth
• June 14: Canberra
• June 16: Melbourne
• June 18: Brisbane
• June 20: Sydney

Tickets for the tour go on sale on Friday, February 28, at 10 am local time. Fans can purchase tickets online through Barnes's website or at the venue box office. Barnes has also announced a one-off soul show at Blues on Broadbeach on the Gold Coast on May 18, which is expected to be a special night of music and entertainment.

Barnes's health challenges have not slowed him down, and he is still going strong after more than five decades of performing and touring. His new album and tour are a testament to his enduring talent and dedication to his craft. With his defiant spirit and passion for music, Barnes is sure to deliver an unforgettable performance to his fans. Barnes's music has been a staple of Australian rock for decades, and his new album is expected to be a hit with fans of all ages.

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