UPDATE: Rock legend Harry Vanda, aged 79, has just launched his solo career with the release of his debut single, ‘Devil Loose’. This milestone comes exactly 60 years after the iconic band Easybeats made waves in the music scene with their breakthrough hit ‘She’s So Fine’ in 1965.
Vanda, reflecting on his past, admits to feeling a sense of loss, stating, “I’m the last one left. They’re all dead! It’s not good.” As the co-writer of enduring classics like ‘Friday On My Mind’ and ‘Love Is In The Air’, he channels his frustration over global chaos into his new track, which critiques societal dysfunction.
The song features a powerful guitar riff by Mark McEntee of the Divinyls, echoing Vanda’s disdain for “financial gurus on the run” amidst a backdrop of “social breakdown.” He candidly shares, “I get pissed off when I see all the stuff going on in the world. It makes no sense whatsoever.”
The B-side, titled ‘Free and Easy’, addresses deceit and betrayal, showcasing Vanda’s characteristic songwriting prowess. “You can either like it or hate it,” he states, dismissing concerns over trends in the industry.
Vanda’s collaborations have shaped Australian rock for decades, influencing not only his contemporaries but also the likes of AC/DC. He recalls, “They were fearless… you’ve got to keep it simple.” His legacy is further cemented by numerous hits that continue to resonate with audiences worldwide.
Reflecting on the loss of his longtime collaborator, George Young, who passed away in 2017, Vanda reveals, “I was devastated… we really got on well with each other.” His son, Daniel Vandenberg, now assists in the studio, ensuring Vanda’s creative vision remains intact.
As Vanda embarks on this new chapter, the potential for a full album following ‘Devil Loose’ is uncertain, but he remains optimistic, stating, “We’ve done a few things so far that have come out all right. So let’s see what happens.”
‘Devil Loose’ is available now, and a three-part podcast titled ‘The Life and Music of Harry Vanda’ is currently streaming, offering fans deeper insight into the life of this rock icon.
Stay tuned for more developments from Harry Vanda, as he continues to shape the music scene with his timeless artistry.
