Living in the Shadow of a Famous Younger Brother
John Swan, known as Swanee, 73, is the older brother of rock star Jimmy Barnes. He opened up about his life struggles, including past traumas and drug use, and reflected on the impact of his famous sibling on his own career.
Family Dynamics and Career Beginnings
Swanee has always been close to and proud of his siblings. Despite public assumptions, he never felt threatened by Jimmy's success. "Not many people touch on it, and I think they're just polite," he remarked about living in his brother's shadow.
He explained that he didn’t worry about rivalry because he "got offered the gig before he did" but decided to stay drumming in his band due to financial reasons, earning "$25 a week" and "couldn't afford to lose that money."
Joining and Leaving the Band
Swanee was surprised when he heard bandmates Ian Moss and Steve Prestwich. He joined to sing with Jimmy about six months after the band's formation but soon realized his role was no longer needed. "Smart enough to realise that this band doesn't need me," he said.
Solo Success and Other Projects
After leaving, Swanee launched a successful solo career and joined other bands. Notably, he replaced Angry Anderson in The Party Boys and achieved a number one hit with them.
"Not many people touch on it, and I think they're just polite."
"I didn't really give a stuff, because I got offered the gig before he did."
"Smart enough to realise that this band doesn't need me."
John Swan’s journey shows a resilient artist carving his own success, despite living in the shadow of his famous younger brother.
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