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Stars to honor John Farnham at Melbourne tribute concert for cancer charity

From ABC Australia · () English

Translated from English, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

News Named sources New plan
  • A tribute concert for Australian music legend John Farnham will be held at Melbourne's Rod Laver Arena on September 20.
  • The event, titled 'The Songs of John Farnham: A Living Legend,' will feature performances by international and Australian artists, including Celine Dion, Hugh Jackman, and Keith Urban.
  • Proceeds from the concert will support the cancer service that aided Farnham during his own battle with the disease.

Melbourne will host a star-studded tribute concert for Australian music icon John Farnham on September 20 at Rod Laver Arena. The event, named 'The Songs of John Farnham: A Living Legend,' aims to celebrate the enduring legacy of the beloved performer.

The fact that so many extraordinary artists from around the world have so generously agreed to be part of this night is incredibly humbling.

— John FarnhamJohn Farnham expressed his feelings about the participation of numerous artists in his tribute concert.

The concert follows Farnham's recent battle with cancer. A significant lineup of artists, including international stars Celine Dion and Hugh Jackman, alongside Australian musicians Keith Urban, Jimmy Barnes, Tina Arena, and Jessica Mauboy, are slated to perform. Dion and Jackman are expected to participate remotely via satellite link from overseas.

It says far more about the spirit behind this event than it does about me.

— John FarnhamFarnham reflected on the significance of the tribute event.

Farnham, who is recovering from mouth and facial surgeries related to his cancer treatment, expressed his gratitude for the artists' participation. "The fact that so many extraordinary artists from around the world have so generously agreed to be part of this night is incredibly humbling," he stated. He noted that the event is about "giving something back and supporting a cause that means a great deal to me."

Giving something back and supporting a cause that means a great deal to me.

— John FarnhamFarnham explained the motivation behind the tribute concert's fundraising efforts.

Funds raised from the concert will be directed to the cancer service that provided care to Farnham during his illness. The 76-year-old artist, known for his 1986 album 'Whispering Jack,' was diagnosed with mouth cancer in 2022 and confirmed he was cancer-free in August 2023. This tribute concert promises to be a significant event, honoring one of Australia's most successful and cherished musicians.

It is an honour and a privilege for me to be included to celebrate the extraordinary legacy John has given to music.

— Celine DionCeline Dion shared her thoughts on participating in the tribute concert.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by ABC Australia in English. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

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