Living in the Shadow of a Younger Brother
John Swan, known to fans as Swanee, is the elder brother of Australian rock icon Jimmy Barnes. Now 73, Swanee has opened up about his past struggles with trauma, substance use, and the complex dynamic of growing up in a musical family where fame favored his younger sibling.
“Not many people touch on it, and I think they're just polite,”
Despite the fame imbalance, Swanee has remained close with his family and has never let rivalry take hold.
“I didn't really give a stuff, because I got offered the gig before he did,”
Swanee initially turned down opportunities to join bigger acts, staying loyal to his own band because, as he joked, he was earning “$25 a week” and couldn’t risk losing that income. His admiration for fellow musicians Ian Moss and Steve Prestwich was clear when he first heard them perform, describing the experience vividly.
Six months after Jimmy's band formed, Swanee joined them briefly as a singer. However, he soon realized his presence wasn’t essential.
“I was smart enough to realise that this band doesn't need me,”
After departing, Swanee focused on his solo career, achieving success in his own right. He later joined other groups, including The Party Boys, where he replaced Angry Anderson and earned a number one hit with the band.
Legacy and Independence
Though often linked with his famous brother, Swanee carved a distinct musical identity and remained resilient through personal and professional challenges. His story reflects both the burden and blessing of family talent.
Author’s Summary
John "Swanee" Swan shares his honest reflections on living and thriving as Jimmy Barnes’ elder brother, showing resilience, humor, and hard-won independence.