Image: Benjamin Rodgers
Last night, Jimmy Barnes unveiled his new single at the State Memorial Service for Michael Gudinski. The emotive Flesh And Blood was co-written with Diesel, and was performed at the specific request of Gudinski's son, Matt.
“Dad was so vibed about ‘Flesh And Blood’ and had it on repeat at home, which was always a sign that he truly loved a song. Jimmy and Dad had a friendship and work partnership that stretched across decades. He was one of the first people Dad would call for advice or to perform at a special gig, so Jimmy was always at the top of the list to perform at Dad’s memorial. In a night which had so many special moments I know this was one that Dad would have particularly loved,” says Matt Gudinski (CEO Mushroom Group). Barnes added, “I was so excited when I played the single to Michael - he was really pumped about it and we were both really looking forward to sharing this new record together”.
Produced and mixed by Barnes long-time collaborator Kevin “Caveman” Shirley, the song serves as the title track of the musicians forthcoming album, due out this July. “Most of the songs on the album – including ‘Flesh And Blood’ - were written when everyone was staying close to home due to COVID-19. Life really slowed down for a while and I think it reminded lots of people about how much of our lives revolve around our family”, says Jimmy.
The album will be available on limited edition blood red vinyl, CD, digital download and streaming, and on a limited edition deluxe CD/DVD package. The bonus DVD will feature 10 of the best home performance videos which Jimmy and Jane Barnes, along with their family and friends, filmed throughout the pandemic. Barnes is currently touring Australia on the Red Hot Summer Tour and will also be headlining Bluesfest in Byron Bay.
Flesh and Blood is out now! Listen to the track below.