Arabic version: جون ويليامسون يتأمل في التقاعد وهويّة أسترالية
According to ABC News,
Folk and country music legend John Williamson is about to leave Australian winter behind for the palm-lined beaches of Fiji when we meet at his office in the heart of Sydney’s CBD. After touring for more than five decades, the 80-year-old singer of Old Man Emu and True Blue is ready to wrap up his performing schedule and ease into retirement in his property on the Gold Coast Hinterland.
Williamson recently headlined the Tamworth country music festival for the last time, expressing a desire to enjoy life on his 180-acre property. He has been slowly building a sculpture park mainly out of rustic grassy iron stuff and old machinery and aims to cultivate his own tomatoes, marking a shift towards a more personal and grounded lifestyle.
As a storyteller, Williamson is concerned about the influence of American music on Australia’s country scene. He believes there is a lack of authentic Australian voice in the genre and encourages artists to embrace their identity through their music. He reflects on the importance of telling meaningful stories, citing his song “The Prettiest Girl in the Kimberley” as a significant narrative that highlights historical injustices.
Williamson’s passion for Australia’s natural environment heavily influences his work. He emphasizes the need for Australians to appreciate the diverse landscapes of their country, which he feels are often taken for granted. His song “True Blue” resonates with themes of trust and community, representing the essence of Australian identity. He believes that despite differences, a shared love for the land and its unique character unites Australians.
