Jimmy Barnes Illness and Health Update: What Happened to Jimmy Barnes? What Illness does Jimmy Barnes Have?
by Aishwarya R
Updated Dec 02, 2023
Jimmy Barnes Illness and Health Update
Jimmy Barnes, the iconic 67-year-old rocker, has unfortunately faced another setback in his health, prompting the cancellation of upcoming gigs. Barnes was hospitalized due to a severe infection, leading to the cancellation of his performance at the By The C festival in Torquay, Victoria. In a statement on Friday, he expressed regret, acknowledging the inconvenience caused to fans who had traveled to attend the event.
The health update came after Barnes shared the news of his illness on his official Facebook page earlier in the week. He revealed that he had been receiving intravenous antibiotics to treat bacterial pneumonia, preventing him from traveling to Noumea as originally planned for Rock The Boat 2023. Despite the setback, Barnes assured fans that his band, including his daughter Mahalia and other special guests, would still perform on board.
Expressing sincere apologies for the inconvenience and disappointment caused by the cancellations, Barnes explained that doctors had confined him to bed for the next few days. The timing of the illness couldn't have been worse, affecting his participation in the planned events. However, Barnes remained optimistic about making a full recovery in time for the By The C festival in Torquay.
This recent health challenge follows Barnes' previous period of bed rest earlier in the year, during which he had to cancel his summer tour to undergo emergency hip surgery. The surgery, conducted in late 2022 to address years of chronic pain, necessitated a significant recovery period. Barnes spent time recuperating in his second home in Thailand with his wife Jane and had been on the mend in recent months, even requiring a cane for walking at one point. However, by March, he had made a full recovery. Fans and well-wishers are undoubtedly hoping for a speedy recovery for Jimmy Barnes, wishing him well as he faces and overcomes this latest health setback.
Who is Jimmy Barnes?
Jimmy Barnes is a Scottish-born Australian rock singer renowned for his illustrious career as both a solo performer and the lead vocalist of the iconic rock band Cold Chisel. His musical journey has solidified his status as one of Australia's most beloved and best-selling artists. Barnes' solo career boasts an impressive 15 number-one albums in Australia, a record unmatched by any other artist in the country. Notably, his contributions as the lead singer of Cold Chisel add another five number-one albums to his remarkable tally, bringing his combined total to an extraordinary 20 number-one albums in Australia.
This accomplishment comfortably surpasses legendary acts like the Beatles, Madonna, Taylor Swift, Eminem, and U2. Jimmy Barnes' influence extends beyond his chart-topping success, as his distinctive voice and powerful performances have left an indelible mark on the Australian music scene. His enduring popularity and prolific musical output have established him as a true icon in the realm of Australian rock and a celebrated figure in the global music landscape.
Birth Name
James Dixon Swan
Born
28 April 1956 (age 67)
Born Place
Glasgow, Scotland
Origin
Adelaide, South Australia
Genres
Hard rock, blues rock, soul, R&B, electronic
Occupation(s)
Singer, songwriter
Years Active
1973–present
Labels
Mushroom, Geffen, Provogue
Member of
Cold Chisel, The Barnestormers
Formerly of
Fraternity, Living Loud, INXS
Jimmy Barnes Career
Jimmy Barnes' illustrious career is a tapestry of musical evolution, resilience, and diverse collaborations. Beginning in the early 1970s, Barnes embarked on a journey that saw him rise from an apprenticeship in a foundry with the South Australian Railways to becoming one of Australia's most iconic rock singers. His early foray into the music scene saw him join the band Fraternity, and later, the harder-edged Orange, which eventually transformed into the legendary Cold Chisel in 1974. Despite some volatile moments, Barnes played a crucial role as the lead vocalist for Cold Chisel until their breakup in December 1983.
The 1980s marked the beginning of Jimmy Barnes' solo career. With his debut solo album, "Bodyswerve," released in September 1984, Barnes quickly ascended the charts, showcasing his powerful vocals and songwriting prowess. Subsequent albums, such as "For the Working Class Man" and "Freight Train Heart," solidified his solo success, with chart-topping hits like "Working Class Man" and "Too Much Ain't Enough Love."
Amidst his solo endeavors, Barnes collaborated with INXS for the hit "Good Times," and later, he ventured into the world of soul music with albums like "Soul Deep" and "Soul Deeper... Songs From the Deep South." The 1990s presented both challenges and triumphs for Barnes, including financial struggles and a temporary move to France. However, he rebounded with albums like "Love and Fear" and "Psyclone."
The 2000s saw Barnes continue his musical exploration, releasing albums like "Rage and Ruin" and "The Rhythm and the Blues," the latter becoming his ninth solo number-one album in Australia. As the decades unfolded, Barnes remained a dynamic force in the music industry. Noteworthy moments include his induction into the ARIA Hall of Fame in 2005, collaborations with artists like his son David Campbell, and the release of the anniversary album "30:30 Hindsight" in 2014.
In the 2010s, Barnes continued to make history, releasing albums like "Rage and Ruin," "Soul Searchin'," and the chart-topping "My Criminal Record" in 2019. His autobiography, "Working Class Boy," was adapted into a film, further solidifying his influence and legacy. The 2020s have seen Barnes delve into new projects, including a rockabilly band with Slim Jim Phantom and Chris Cheney, the release of "Soul Deep 30," and the unveiling of the supergroup The Barnestormers. Jimmy Barnes' enduring career is a testament to his musical versatility, resilience, and everlasting impact on the Australian music landscape.
Jimmy Barnes Family and Early Life
Jimmy Barnes, originally born as James Dixon Swan in the Cowcaddens area of Glasgow, hails from a family marked by diverse experiences and challenges. His parents, Dorothy and Jim Swan, navigated a tumultuous relationship in what Barnes described as a childhood environment characterized by poverty, alcohol, and violence. Despite being born into a family with a mix of Jewish and Protestant heritage, Barnes was raised in the Protestant faith. His father, a prizefighter, added a layer of toughness to their upbringing.
Barnes grew up with four siblings—John, Dorothy, Linda, and Alan—in what he referred to as a challenging environment. His older brother, John, who later became known as Swanee, played a crucial role in shaping Barnes' musical journey. Initially uninterested in singing, Barnes was encouraged and taught by his brother, setting the stage for his later success in the music industry.
In 1962, when Barnes was five years old, the family relocated to Australia, initially settling in Adelaide before making their home in nearby Elizabeth. The move marked a significant chapter in Barnes' life, shaping his identity as an Australian artist. The family underwent changes, including the birth of another sister, Lisa, later that year, and the subsequent divorce of his parents. Following the remarriage of his mother to a man named Reg Barnes, Jimmy adopted the name James Dixon Barnes, incorporating his stepfather's surname into his own. This early period of adversity and adaptation laid the foundation for the resilience and determination that would characterize Jimmy Barnes' life and career.
Jimmy Barnes Wives and Children
Jimmy Barnes has navigated various aspects of family life with his diverse relationships and seven children. His current wife, Jane Mahoney, whom he married in Sydney on May 22, 1981, has been a significant part of his life. Together, they share four children: Mahalia, Eliza-Jane, Jackie, and Elly-May, who are collectively known in the music world as The Tin Lids. The family dynamic reflects Barnes' commitment to his role as a father and his enduring relationship with Jane, who has been a constant support throughout his career.
Before his marriage to Jane, Barnes had a child named David with Kim Campbell from a previous relationship. This extended his family further and added another dimension to his personal life. Additionally, Barnes has two daughters from earlier relationships, adding to the complexity and richness of his family history. The details about these two daughters and their names are not explicitly disclosed in public domains.
Barnes' commitment to family life is evident not only through his marriage and children but also in the collaborative musical efforts with his family members, such as The Tin Lids. This multifaceted aspect of his personal life, spanning different relationships and connections, adds depth to the narrative of Jimmy Barnes' journey beyond the stage.
Jimmy Barnes Net Worth
Jimmy Barnes Net Worth is $20 million. He derives his income from various sources, primarily stemming from his extensive and successful career in the music industry. Barnes has released numerous albums both as a solo artist and as the lead vocalist of Cold Chisel. The sales of these albums, along with income generated from live performances, concerts, and tours, constitute a significant portion of his earnings. His chart-topping albums, hit singles, and live shows contribute to his financial success.
As a prolific songwriter, Barnes earns royalties from the use of his music in various mediums, including radio, television, movies, and online streaming platforms. Royalties are a continuous source of income whenever his songs are played or licensed. The sale of merchandise related to Jimmy Barnes, including items like T-shirts, posters, and other memorabilia during concerts or through official channels, contributes to his income. Merchandising is a common revenue stream for established artists.
Barnes has authored autobiographies, including "Working Class Boy" and "Working Class Man." The sales of these books, along with any potential income from film adaptations, contribute to his overall earnings. Collaborations with other artists, participation in side projects, and guest appearances on albums or at events provide additional streams of income for Barnes. This includes his involvement in projects like Living Loud, where he collaborated with musicians like Deep Purple's Steve Morse.
Jimmy Barnes Age
As of 2023, iconic Australian rock singer Jimmy Barnes is 67 years old, having been born on April 28, 1956. Barnes, known for his powerful vocals and influential music career, has successfully navigated the music industry for several decades. Despite the passage of time, Barnes continues to be a dynamic force, engaging audiences with his performances and contributing to the cultural landscape. His enduring passion for music and remarkable career have solidified his status as a revered figure in Australian rock. At 67, Jimmy Barnes remains an active and influential presence in the world of music.
What Happened to Jimmy Barnes?
Australian rock legend Jimmy Barnes faced health setbacks as he was rushed to the hospital due to a severe infection, compelling the cancellation of upcoming gigs. The 67-year-old singer, recovering from a major hip operation in late 2022, shared news of receiving intravenous antibiotics for bacterial pneumonia, hindering his participation in Rock The Boat 2023. Apologizing for the inconvenience, Barnes, previously on bed rest and forced to cancel a summer tour for hip surgery, expressed regret over missing the By The C festival in Torquay. Despite recent recovery, unforeseen health challenges have temporarily sidelined the iconic rocker, with hopes of a swift return to the stage.
What Illness does Jimmy Barnes Have?
Jimmy Barnes is currently battling a severe infection, specifically bacterial pneumonia, which led to his hospitalization and compelled the cancellation of scheduled performances, including the By The C festival in Torquay. The 67-year-old rocker shared the unfortunate news on his official Facebook page, revealing his ongoing treatment with intravenous antibiotics. This health setback follows Barnes' previous challenges, including emergency hip surgery and an extensive period of bed rest. Despite a major hip operation in late 2022 and months of recovery, unforeseen complications have arisen, temporarily hindering Barnes' ability to fulfill performance commitments. His resilient spirit remains, with hopes for a full recovery in time for future live shows.
Jimmy Barnes Illness and Health Update - FAQs
Jimmy Barnes had to cancel performances due to being hospitalized with a severe infection, specifically bacterial pneumonia, which necessitated immediate medical attention.
In addition to the current severe infection, Barnes underwent emergency hip surgery earlier this year, leading to the cancellation of his summer tour. He had a major hip operation in late 2022 to address years of chronic pain.
Barnes spent months on bed rest and recovery earlier this year, followed by time in his second home in Thailand with his wife Jane. Although he faced challenges, he made a full recovery by March, only to encounter the current health issues.
Barnes had to cancel live events and tour plans due to his earlier hip surgery. Live engagements, including some prearranged performances, fell through during his recovery period.
Barnes is hopeful for a full recovery in the coming days to resume his live performances, with expectations to perform at the By The C festival in Torquay once he has recuperated from the bacterial pneumonia. However, specific timelines may depend on his health progress.