Living in the Shadow of Younger Brother Jimmy Barnes
John Swan, known as Swanee, 73, the older brother of Jimmy Barnes, has shared insights into his life, including past struggles with trauma and drug use, as well as his music career and family dynamics.
Early Music Career and Family Relations
Swanee led the way for his musical family and has always been close to and proud of his siblings. He addressed the perception of rivalry with Jimmy, stating:
“Not many people touch on it, and I think they're just polite.”
He did not feel threatened by Jimmy’s success, explaining,
“I didn't really give a stuff, because I got offered the gig before he did.”
Band Involvement and Career Choices
Swanee chose to remain a drummer for his band at the time because he was earning a steady income of “$25 a week” and couldn’t afford to lose that money. He was surprised when musicians like Ian Moss and Steve Prestwich joined a new band with Jimmy Barnes:
“My jaw just about hit the floor when I heard Mossy [Ian Moss] and Steve Prestwich ...”
Six months after the band was formed, Swanee joined to sing with Jimmy but soon realized the band didn’t need him:
“I was smart enough to realise that this band doesn't need me.”
Solo Success and Other Bands
After leaving the band, Swanee launched a successful solo career. He also joined other groups, including replacing Angry Anderson in The Party Boys, with whom he achieved a number one hit.
Summary: Swanee paved his own path in music, overcoming personal challenges, while embracing family ties and carving out success separate from his famous younger brother Jimmy Barnes.