'It's a reality': Living in the shadow of younger brother Jimmy Barnes

“It's a Reality”: Living in the Shadow of Younger Brother Jimmy Barnes

John Swan, better known as Swanee, is the older brother of Australian rock icon Jimmy Barnes. Now 73, he has reflected on his difficult past, his years battling addiction, and how life unfolded within a musical family constantly compared by the public.

"Not many people touch on it, and I think they're just polite,"

Despite the fame surrounding his younger brother, Swanee insists that rivalry never came between them. He remained proud of all his siblings and focused on his own musical path.

"I didn't really give a stuff, because I got offered the gig before he did,"

Early in his career, Swanee turned down opportunities to switch bands, deciding to stay put because he was earning "$25 a week" and couldn’t risk losing that income. Hearing musicians Ian Moss and Steve Prestwich play left a major impression on him, convincing him of their talent.

He later joined Jimmy Barnes’ band as a singer about six months after it was formed, but soon realized he needed to pursue his own way.

"I was smart enough to realise that this band doesn't need me,"

Swanee eventually built a strong solo career and joined several notable bands, including The Party Boys, where he successfully replaced Angry Anderson and achieved a number-one hit.

Author’s Summary

John “Swanee” Swan reflects on family, fame, and self-worth, revealing how he found success and peace outside the shadow of his rockstar brother Jimmy Barnes.

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The Senior The Senior — 2025-11-05

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