Daryl Braithwaite, Australian singer-songwriter

Daryl Braithwaite, born on 11 January 1949, stands as an enduring icon of Australian music, renowned for his versatile vocal talent and a career spanning over five decades. His remarkable journey encompasses significant success as the charismatic lead vocalist of one of Australia's most beloved pop bands and a highly successful solo artist.

The Sherbet Years: From Pop Idols to Rock Stalwarts

From 1970 to 1984, Daryl Braithwaite fronted Sherbet, a band that profoundly shaped the Australian music landscape. Originating in Sydney, Sherbet quickly rose to become a dominant force, synonymous with the vibrant pop culture of the 1970s. As teenage idols, they captivated audiences with a string of chart-topping hits, evolving their sound from pure pop to more progressive rock in later years. Their enduring popularity led to numerous subsequent reunions, celebrating their shared legacy and hits such as "Summer Love" and "Howzat," which solidified their status as a household name across the nation.

A Resurgent Solo Career and Iconic Hits

Parallel to his band commitments and significantly in the years following Sherbet's main tenure, Daryl Braithwaite cultivated an exceptionally successful solo career. Demonstrating remarkable longevity and adaptability, he has placed an impressive 15 singles within the Australian top 40. Among these, two stand out as number-one chart-toppers, showcasing his powerful vocal delivery and widespread appeal.

• "You're My World" (October 1974): This poignant ballad marked Braithwaite's first solo number-one hit, a powerful rendition of the Cilla Black classic. Its success underscored his individual artistry even while he was still deeply embedded in Sherbet's success, highlighting his capability to command attention as a solo performer.
• "The Horses" (January 1991): Arguably his most celebrated and enduring hit, "The Horses" transcended pop music to become a genuine Australian cultural phenomenon. Originally written and recorded by American singer-songwriter Rickie Lee Jones and Steely Dan's Walter Becker for Jones' 1989 album 'Flying Cowboys', Braithwaite's cover, from his 1990 album 'Rise', captured the national imagination. It soared to the top of the ARIA Singles Chart and has since become an unofficial anthem, resonating deeply with Australians and regularly featured at sporting events and public gatherings, testament to its timeless appeal and uplifting message.

Album Milestones: Edge and Rise

Daryl Braithwaite's solo album releases have also achieved significant critical and commercial acclaim, marking pivotal moments in his career resurgence.

• Edge (November 1988): This second studio album proved to be a monumental comeback, peaking at No. 1 on the prestigious ARIA Albums Chart. Its success was not confined to Australia, as it also achieved international recognition, reaching No. 14 in Norway and No. 24 in Sweden, showcasing his global appeal.
• Rise (November 1990): His third studio album, 'Rise', further cemented his solo success. This album notably featured the iconic single "The Horses" and achieved multi-platinum sales, solidifying his status as a major contemporary artist in the early 1990s.

ARIA Hall of Fame Induction: A Lifetime Achievement

In 2017, Daryl Braithwaite received one of the highest honours in Australian music when he was formally inducted into the ARIA Hall of Fame. This prestigious accolade, administered by the Australian Recording Industry Association (ARIA), recognises artists who have made exceptional and lasting contributions to Australian music. His induction was a fitting tribute to a remarkable career, acknowledging his profound impact both as a band frontman and a solo artist on the nation's cultural landscape.

Frequently Asked Questions About Daryl Braithwaite

When was Daryl Braithwaite born?

Daryl Braithwaite was born on 11 January 1949, making him a seasoned and enduring figure in the Australian music scene.

What band was Daryl Braithwaite the lead singer of?

He was the highly successful lead vocalist for the iconic Australian band Sherbet from 1970 to 1984, a group celebrated for numerous pop hits and their significant influence on Australian music.

What are Daryl Braithwaite's two number-one solo hits?

His two number-one solo singles on the Australian charts are "You're My World," released in October 1974, and the immensely popular "The Horses," which topped the charts in January 1991.

Which Daryl Braithwaite album reached number one on the ARIA Charts?

His second studio album, "Edge," released in November 1988, notably reached the No. 1 position on the ARIA Albums Chart, marking a significant milestone in his solo career.

When was Daryl Braithwaite inducted into the ARIA Hall of Fame?

Daryl Braithwaite received the distinguished honour of induction into the ARIA Hall of Fame in 2017, acknowledging his outstanding contributions to Australian music over many decades.