Soulful songstress Mahalia Barnes has stepped into the spotlight and is quickly being revered as one of the country’s premier female vocalists. She might have started her career performing with her famous father – Jimmy Barnes – but Mahalia Barnes is a bona fide star within her own right. Heading to The Reef Hotel Casino for two special nights this June, Mahalia will be taking to the BAR36 stage, with special guest Swanee (aka John Swan).
In mid-2005 Mahalia put her own band together, Mahalia Barnes & The Soul Mates, they released their first self-titled EP in 2007 and the follow-up, aptly titled debut full-length album Volume 1 the following year. The next EP Volume 2 was released in 2011 and their latest release Ooh Yeah – The Betty Davis Songbook, featuring Joe Bonamassa came out early 2017. There was also a duets album in the mix there with Prinnie Stevens (2012) called Come Together.
Since forming her band, Mahalia hasn’t really stopped touring. She has performed across the width and breadth of Australia, playing support to the likes of The Roots, Lionel Richie, James Morrison and Mavis Staples. She is also a favourite at local festivals and regularly performs her own headline shows at some of the country’s most well-reputed venues.
When she is not performing with The Soul Mates, she is often lending her vocals as a session musician. It is evident there is nothing this talented musician can’t do! There future is certainly bright for Mahalia Barnes and if reputation is anything to go by, an evening in her company at one of her live shows is guaranteed to be an unforgettable musical experience.
Joining Mahalia as her special guest support for the two nights in Cairns is her uncle, and rock icon John Swan. Swanee needs little introduction to the rock music loving public. As a chart-topper with smash singles such as If I Were A Carpenter and Lady What’s Your Name to his credit, he is acclaimed as one of the best rock n roll voices in the country. During his long-time stint with The Party Boys, he was responsible for the unforgettable hit He’s Gonna Step On You Again.
Don’t miss two of the best vocalists performing in Australia today as they share the same stage for two special nights at BAR36 this June.
Mahalia Barnes performs at BAR36 at The Reef Hotel Casino on Friday 23rd and Saturday 24th June from 8.30pm, with support from Swanee (aka John Swan). *** Live at the Casino shows in BAR36 are non-ticketed shows.
For more information, please visit www.reefcasino.com.au
