Tim Finn reflects on his long music career before appearing at Adelaide’s Beer and BBQ
Tim Finn, a cherished musical figure in Australia since his Split Enz days in the 1970s, now resides in Auckland with his wife. He is scheduled to perform at Adelaide’s Beer and BBQ Festival and various other Australian venues in June. Finn reflected on his journey as a songwriter, sharing his experiences collaborating with different musicians such as drummer Ricky Fataar. He also delved into the difficulties of remaining relevant in today’s music industry landscape.
The upcoming Escapade tour and album re-release prompted questions about Finn’s decision to revisit the album after 40 years. He explained that the delayed release was due to challenges with the record company and highlighted the unique evolution of the album. Originally conceived during a break from touring with Split Enz, the album allowed Finn to experiment with new musical directions, particularly focusing on drummers like Ricky Fataar. The creative process behind the album was a pivotal moment in Finn’s evolution as a songwriter.
“Faction Too Much Friction,” the opening track of the album, continues to resonate with audiences four decades later. Finn expressed gratitude for the enduring impact of his music, especially at festivals where younger audiences connect with his classic songs. The recognition and response from listeners, whether dancing along to familiar tunes like “I See Red,” “Little kids like that one, and they like ‘Shark Attack’ too, those fast ones,” Finn noted, illustrating the timeless appeal of his music.
Reflecting on Split Enz’s iconic appearance on Countdown with their eccentric outfits and hairstyles, Finn acknowledged the impact of their unique image. The visual and auditory experience created a lasting impression, challenging traditional norms and captivating audiences. Finn recognized the difficulty of distinguishing oneself in the current music landscape saturated with artists and platforms. He emphasized the communal experience of watching programs like Countdown and acknowledged the shift towards individualized media consumption, noting the loss of shared experiences.
Finn reminisced about the bygone era of communal viewing and shared cultural moments, contrasting it with the modern era of personalized entertainment. Despite the challenges of navigating the evolving music industry, Finn expressed gratitude for the opportunities he had during his career. He credited figures like Michael Gudinski for supporting emerging artists and providing platforms for exposure. Finn’s reflections on his musical journey underscored the enduring impact of his work and the significance of communal experiences in shaping cultural memory.