Judith Durham has been performing music for 5 decades, as part of “The Seekers” and a solo artist. I was lucky enough to interview Judith and her answers were quite intriguing:
You have been in the music industry for 50 years, how have things changed since you first started?
The changes in technology have been extraordinary. Things as basic as fold back on stage! And the Internet, of course, which allows artists to have instant contact with and feedback from fans.
Fifty years ago, there were so many alcohol-free venues, and radio played all sorts of music. Traditional jazz was competing with rock ‘n roll, both in the charts and in live venues.
Was it difficult transitioning from being with The Seekers to working solo?
I started out as a solo artist, so the difficulty was transitioning from solo to group, back to solo, back to a group and then back to being solo again. It takes more courage to be a solo artist.
What do you think has attributed to your long term success?
Timeless melodies and positive lyrics have always bonded me to my audience, with no sense of separation in the sharing process.
Tell us a little bit about your latest albums, Epiphany and Colours of My Life…
Colours Of My Life is a retrospective of all the albums I’ve recorded in 50 years. It has 22 tracks and a DVD. There are all styles of songs and composing, even me playing ragtime piano. Epiphany is my second album of music and lyrics I’ve composed – some in collaboration – on inspirational topics. Both albums have been released in my celebratory 50th year.
Who would these albums appeal to?
‘Colours’ would appeal to anyone who wants to share my musical journey through all the different styles. Many of those years were shared with my late husband Ron Edgeworth. ‘Epiphany’ would appeal to people who appreciate musical theatre and songs with emotional content and inspirational concepts which have informed me and raised my awareness in the process of composing and recording the songs.
Who are your favourite modern artists?
Kylie Minogue, Tex Perkins, Andre Rieu, Andrea Bocelli, Celine Dion.
Do you prefer stage or recording studio?
My health is difficult to juggle with the stage, but it’s magic when it all comes together. However, I love the permanent satisfaction when a recording works well.
What is one message you would like to give to your fans out there?
Hold on to your dream, until the last piece of the jigsaw is in place.
Do you have any plans to retire?
Only after I’ve celebrated my 100th anniversary!! Or as ill health may dictate, But I have been given a real sense of purpose in the way I can use my musical gifts to help people while I am willing to test my faith that I will be enabled to meet the physical and mental challenges that a public life demands of an artist.
What does music mean to you?
Music is a second language that communicates on a deep emotional level, whether or not it is combined with lyrics. It’s also the only language in the world that everyone can understand and the language of notating music should be taught in all schools.
For more information or to purchase the music you can visit: www.getmusic.com.au/judithdurham
Beauty and Lace is an online magazine for women. We hope you enjoyed this article!
Wow, thanks for that interview with Judith. I grew up with my mum loving the Seekers and then I started to love them. I remember when learning the guitar, it was a Seekers song. Somehow, I gave up with the guitar and just concentrated on playing all my mum’s records instead.
Congratulations to Judith on 50 years and hopefully many more to come. Looking foward to hearing Colours now. Her voice is captivating.
I think Judith has put the lie to the widely held notion that to be a model you have to be a skinny, flat chested, six foot, twenty something Blonde. Her natural beauty has only grown through the years and is second only to the beauty of her heart. I congratulate your photographer (s) on capturing both .
Two amazing photos
One amazing woman.
Thanks