Mark Seymour on a complicated legacy – and not being in the Hunters & Collectors WhatsApp group
Good Weekend TalksSummary
Mark Seymour, the iconic frontman of the Australian rock band Hunters and Collectors, reflects on his extensive musical journey and the creative process that continues to inspire him. As he prepares for a unique concert in Melbourne, where he will perform with a full symphony orchestra, Seymour discusses the evolution of his songwriting and the emotional resonance of his music. He emphasizes the mystery of crafting songs that connect with audiences, noting that even his famous anthem "Throw Your Arms Around Me" initially went unnoticed before gaining popularity.
Seymour shares insights into his early musical influences, including his family's choir background and the impact of his religious upbringing on his artistic expression. He candidly addresses the challenges of transitioning from a successful band to a solo career, revealing the struggles he faced in gaining acceptance as a solo artist. Despite the ups and downs, he remains passionate about songwriting and the profound effect music can have on people's lives.
As he looks ahead to the concert, which will feature a blend of his classic hits and newer material, Seymour expresses excitement about the orchestral arrangements that bring a fresh dimension to his work. He acknowledges the enduring legacy of Hunters and Collectors while embracing the opportunity to reinvent his sound, demonstrating a commitment to artistic growth and connection with both longtime fans and new audiences.
Show Notes
Mark Seymour is an artist who has lived many musical lives. He was the founder and frontman of notable Australian rock band Hunters & Collectors, but he started out in his family choir. He’s sung solo acoustic gigs, and inadvertently created one of the great sporting anthems from a song inspired by a Jeanette Winterson novel. Soon Seymour will bring his old hits to life with a full symphony orchestra for a one-off concert in Melbourne. Seymour tells special correspondent Stephen Brook what keeps him writing, what his religious parents thought of his music and whether he is still in touch with his old bandmates. And after he is done talking, as a special treat for Good Weekend Talks listeners, Seymour serenades us with an acoustic version of one of the Hunters’ much loved ballads. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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