Daryl BraithwaiteThis week’s news regarding Daryl Braithwaite’s retirement from live performances has resonated around the national music community, with a number of musicians sharing their own reactions and messages of support for the veteran musician.
Braithwaite announced his news on Tuesday (June 23rd), revealing that “after much thought and consideration,” he had made the decision to “step back” from live performances.
“For some time now it has been increasingly physically challenging for me to sing comfortably and as a result it has taken the joy out of performing, which has always been so important to me,” he wrote.
“I have loved the 58 years of being a part of the music industry.”
With his musical career boasting enduring albums and singles as part of Sherbet and as a solo performer, the news was met with shock and sadness from Braithwaite’s large fanbase and musical comrades – many of whom took to social media to share their own messages in support of Braithwaite.
“When I was a young singer and Cold Chisel were getting started, one of my fondest memories was doing a show with Sherbet,” wrote Jimmy Barnes. “Daryl, being as generous as he is, grabbed me after the show and insisted that I join the band as they left the show in an armored van.
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“Surrounded by screaming fans who were rocking the van trying to get to the band, it was my first taste of fame. It was exciting and frightening at the same time. Since that day, we have remained friends and played countless shows together. He is an absolute gentleman and will be missed by audiences all across this country.
“Enjoy your time surfing, mate, you’ve earned it.”
“Thank you for 58 years of incredible music and iconic live performances,” echoed Shannon Noll. “You are a true blue legend mate!”
“Opening for you, performing alongside you, and getting to know you as a person has been one of the great privileges of my life,” reflected Melbourne musician Taylor Sheridan. “I’ve stood side of stage, fully aware that I was watching not only an icon, but a man who has dedicated his life to giving everything he has to his craft and to his audience.
“I want you to know that it has been nothing short of an honour working with you. Thank you doesn’t quite cut it, but it’s all I have for now.”
“Daryl has given us 58 incredible years of music, memories and songs that have become part of the soundtrack of our lives,” wrote Wilbur Wilde, alongside an image of Braithwaite on Hey Hey It’s Saturday. “More importantly, he's always been one of the genuinely nicest blokes in the business.
“This photo takes me back to the Hey Hey It's Saturday Red Faces segment on 7 June 1986. Left to right it's me, Daryl and Red Symons, three mates sharing a laugh on a show that brought so much joy to so many people.
“Daryl, thank you for the music, the friendship and the countless memories,” he added. “You've earned the admiration and respect of generations of Australians, and whatever comes next, your songs and your legacy will live on forever.
“Sending you much love and wishing you all the very best.”
