Australian rock icon Jimmy Barnes has unveiled his highly anticipated 21st solo studio album, DEFIANT, just one day prior to kicking off a nationwide tour across Australia. This album showcases his enduring talent and resilience in the face of challenges, making it a must-listen for rock enthusiasts.

Released under Mushroom Music, DEFIANT emerges following a challenging period for Barnes, who has faced multiple significant surgeries in recent years, including a perilous heart operation that tested his strength. Despite these hardships, the legendary frontman of Cold Chisel emphasizes that this new 10-track collection conveys a powerful message of resilience and determination.

“Nobody lives this long without facing challenges, and I’ve certainly encountered my fair share, especially in recent times,” Barnes expressed in a press statement. “However, none of us have control over the obstacles that life presents. What we can control is our response to these challenges — and for better or worse, I’ve always preferred to move forward rather than step back.”

While Barnes did not initially plan for the album to convey a specific theme, he reflects that DEFIANT ultimately embodies a cohesive message of strength and perseverance. This unexpected realization highlights the depth and introspection inherent in his songwriting process, showcasing his evolution as an artist.

“I didn’t intentionally set out to create a thematic album,” he shared. “However, now that the project is completed, it’s clear to me that there’s a recurring narrative about the fulfillment that comes from standing your ground and fighting back against adversity. This insight is exactly why I chose the title DEFIANT for the album.”

Marking his first new release since the 2022 holiday album Blue Christmas, DEFIANT further cements Barnes’ legacy, featuring a staggering total of 15 solo No. 1 albums on Australia’s ARIA Albums Chart, making him the most successful artist in ARIA history. Additionally, he has achieved five more chart-topping albums with his band Cold Chisel, reinforcing his status as a formidable force in the Australian rock music scene.

“I’m absolutely ready to rock!” Barnes exclaimed. “Every single track on DEFIANT is crafted to be performed live, and I am eager to elevate the energy and excitement during my shows. The anticipation of rocking out with my fans is exhilarating!”

“I genuinely look forward to reuniting with my incredible band on stage. I take immense pride in this new record – each song holds significant meaning for me, and I can’t wait to share these creations with my audience. It’s going to be an unforgettable experience filled with genuine fun and excitement!”

The highly-anticipated Defiant Tour is set to commence on June 7 at the Adelaide Entertainment Centre, with performances scheduled in major cities including Perth, Melbourne, Brisbane, and Sydney, culminating in a grand finale in Canberra later this month. This tour promises to be a thrilling celebration of his new music and stunning live performances.

In addition to the album release and accompanying tour, Barnes is set to make an appearance in the inaugural season of That Blackfella Show, which is touted as Australia’s first national First Nations variety show. The series will be filmed before a live audience and features an impressive lineup, including rapper BARKAA, comedians Steph Tisdell and Dane Simpson, along with broadcaster Abbie Chatfield, promising an exciting showcase of talent and culture.

DEFIANT is now available for streaming on all major platforms, allowing fans to easily access and enjoy this remarkable body of work from one of Australia’s iconic rock artists.