Going behind the scenes of River Daze on Saturday afternoon, I was fortunate to be able to have a quick chat with headline act, Shannon Noll, just before sound check.

The 48-year-old father of four was looking forward to the evening’s gig, particularly that it was taking place on the banks of the Murray River. For Noll, who was born and bred in the country NSW town of Condobolin, it was his first time in Barham and being a country boy, he was prepared for an enthusiastic crowd.

How do the rural shows compare to the regional/city shows?

“I love these shows because people always get behind them when there aren’t 50 things to go to. So, when something like this comes up and it’s planned and organised properly, especially food and wine, it’s just great. Then, to have a band at the end, you can have a great night. The crowds always seem more enthusiastic I think, so hopefully, they’ll get into it.”

What can we expect tonight?

“Doing most of the big singles I’ve put out over the years. A bit of a mix of mid-tempo and up-tempo. Get into it at the end and hopefully, get a big singalong going on.”

For What About Me?

“Yeah, that’s usually what happens!” (laughs)

Australian Idol was 20 years ago this year, how has your musical style changed since the show?

“Early in the piece, it was predominantly poppy because the record labels want that market. I’ve always loved rock ‘n roll.” 

Who are your musical influences?

“My influences are Jimmy (Barnes), Bon Jovi, Creed – all those big bands, so we lean towards that sort of stuff a bit more live, dabble the foot in the country part a bit. Down the track, it might become something I get more into.”

I hear you’re a bit of a gym junkie these days.

“Before I did the show (Australian Idol), playing footy and stuff, I tried to get into it but then with the show I couldn’t get into any team sports and stuff at the weekend because I was doing that. The training was a good opportunity to get fit. I’ve ramped it up a bit the last 18 months.”

Do you have any special regime you like to follow before a show? 

“I’m not that committed! Saving all the energy for the shows!”

Do you have the family with you tonight? 

“Not this time, I had to go via Melbourne for a heap of promo for the launch of the new single yesterday ‘Don’t You Wanna Stay’ – a duet I did with Cosimo Devito.

Tell us about that.

“I’ve got a podcast and I interviewed her a couple of months ago and talked about doing a song together when we finally found one. Then, we found this one. It’s a song that Jason Eldine and Kelly Clarkson released, so we jumped on that and it came out really good. We might do that tonight.”

You might get some volunteers for Cosimo’s part.

“Good luck with that one, that’s a big ask, that girl can sing, my God.” 

Well, Shannon certainly did not disappoint, and the crowd loved it. A great entertainer, with a wholesome country boy appreciation for the support of small communities. Everyone sang along, especially as he closed the show with the hit that started it all, What About Me? 

Thanks to everyone behind the scenes of River Daze for bringing Shannon to Barham.

See all the pictures in the issue.

This article appeared in The Koondrook and Barham Bridge Newspaper, 7 March 2024.