Rowdy Crowds to Unruly Fans: Paul Kelly Reveals the Most Challenging Bands To Support

Paul Kelly, the legendary Australian singer-songwriter, has revealed the two bands that made him want to get off stage during his early days as an opening act.

Kelly, who is now one of Australia’s most successful artists, began his career in the 80s as a warm-up act for some of the biggest names in the industry.

In an interview with LiSTNR, Kelly spoke about the challenges he faced while supporting two of the most popular bands of the era – Midnight Oil and Cold Chisel. According to Kelly, the loyal crowds of these bands had no patience for the opening act.

“Midnight Oil you’d hear that chant ‘Oils! Oils! Oils’, and with Cold Chisel, I specifically remember one show somewhere in Sydney, and the audience were really close. There were a couple of guys up the front while we were playing, shaved heads, going ‘f… off f… oof f… of’ all through my set. Sometimes during those support shows, you’d just want to get off stage as soon as you could,”

Paul Kelly, on Midnight Oil & Cold Chisel

Listen Below To Hear Paul Kelly Share The Challenges Of Opening For Midnight Oil and Cold Chisel:

Kelly’s experience highlights the challenges that opening acts face while performing for audiences that are eager to see their favorite headlining bands. Often, fans of the main act are not interested in the opening act and can be hostile towards them.

Despite these challenges, Kelly persevered and went on to become one of the most respected artists in the Australian music industry. His music has inspired generations of musicians and has earned him a loyal fan base around the world.

Kelly’s experience is a reminder that success in the music industry is not easy. It takes hard work, determination, and a thick skin to overcome the challenges that come with being an opening act.

Listen below to hear the full story, plus more tales of Oz Rock:

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