Joe Camilleri

Joe Camilleri has been around for a long time. A long, long time. But that doesn’t mean he still doesn’t have a trick or two up his sleeve. Proving that like a fine wine musicians can grow greater with age, we were more than happy to have another chinwag with this old pro.
Hi Joe, thanks for taking the time to chat with Forte. How are you and what are you up to at the moment?
I’m getting ready to fly to Bali for a week’s break – just me and four of my five kids … Looking forwards to just hanging out with them.
Firstly, Happy New Year! Did you get up to much over the holidays?
The Sorrows worked right up until Christmas with just a couple of days off before kicking off the new year with shows in northern NSW and then the south west coast of Victoria.
Do you have big plans for 2015?
2015 is shaping up to be as busy as last year. I’ll be doing another APIA tour, a short Here Comes the Night run and, of course, The Sorrows shows in-between … We’ll be off to Europe and UK again in August.
Last time we talked you’d just released Certified Blue, but you had a bunch of songs you’d be able to release for another album. Have you decided what to do with those extra songs yet?
Yes. I just finished mastering the songs; it’ll be another vinyl release called Endless Sleep. Release date to be confirmed.
It’s pretty insane to think that you’ve released 45 albums over your career. Do you have a figure you’d love to reach or are you just happy making music?
50 would be a nice achievement… but who’s counting?
Over those 45 albums you’d have to have a favourite. Do any spring to mind?
I guess the milestone records like Screaming Targets for the Falcons and Hold On To Me for The Sorrows … I am humbled by the fact that Certified Blue has struck a chord with media and fans.
You’ll be performing later in January at the Music to a Tee event. Is it nice being able to perform at gigs for a good cause (Karingal)?
Yes, it’s always uplifting. It’s human nature to be charitable … If I can help in some way I will. You just roll up your sleeves…
That gig’s at Geelong. Do you have any fond (or interesting) memories of the town?
Geelong was a kicking off point for The Falcons back in the day. I’ve played there many times since. It’s always been a great town for live music whether you are at the top of your game or just starting out.
After all these years you’re still playing to huge crowds, releasing music and receiving rave reviews. Basically, things are looking pretty good for you. Was there ever a moment in your career where you questioned being a musician?
Many times. In your 20’s you’re still moving around. When The Falcons finished I wasn’t sure what was next. Then the next musical opportunity presented and from humble beginnings The Black Sorrows took flight. Now in my sixties, it’s my station in life.
What’s your piece of advice for anyone who is struggling with that question?
Believe in your destiny. The music industry has changed over the decades. It’s not the same model, but you can work around it and still achieve some level of success.
When&Where: 13th Beach Golf Links – January 23