Jimmy Barnes opened the 2025 Logies with a performance that sparked a wave of mixed reactions. The iconic rocker took the stage at The Star in Sydney, delivering his celebrated anthem, Working Class Man. However, while the 69-year-old’s live rendition was intended to set an electrifying tone for the evening, it left some viewers at home less than impressed.
Social media platforms were soon buzzing with comments from fans who were tuning into the ceremony. On X, several viewers expressed their disappointment in Barnes’ performance, with one user stating,
“Jimmy Barnes. Poor bastard is incoherent, can’t understand a thing he’s singing.”
Another quipped,
“1988 called. It’d like its entertainment back,”
while a third remarked,
“One for the boomers on the boomers’ medium.”
Divided Audience Response
The performance drew a sharp divide among the audience. Some fans suggested that it might be time for Barnes to consider retirement.
“Unpopular opinion – Jimmy needs to sit down, chill out and retire. He has earned it,”
commented one viewer. Another added,
“He’s doing himself no favours singing everything in a screaming rasp, there’s no light and dark anymore and he’s butchered that classic.”
Despite the criticism, Barnes’ performance was not without its admirers. A number of fans took to social media to praise the rock legend, with one writing,
“The bloody Logies has peaked too early, how can they top this!”
Another fan declared,
“Jimmy Barnes rocks the #Logies2025!”
while someone else hailed him as a “legend.”
Upcoming Tour and Health Challenges
This performance comes on the heels of a challenging year for Barnes, who faced several health issues. Nevertheless, the rocker has announced a tour to celebrate the 40th anniversary of his classic single Working Class Man. First released in November 1985, the song was a top-five hit in Australia and has since become synonymous with Barnes’ career.
The tour, which kicks off in November, will see Barnes joined by ’80s hitmaker Iva Davies and his band Icehouse, along with fan-favorite Kate Ceberano. As a special treat for fans, Barnes will perform every track from his For the Working Class Man album, which topped the charts in Australia shortly after its release.
Tour Dates and Locations
- November 22: Mount Duneed Estate, Geelong, Victoria
- November 29: Sirromet Winery, Queensland
- December 6: Bimbadgen Wines, Hunter Valley, NSW
- January 17, 2026: Regatta Grounds, Hobart
- January 31: Peter Lehmann Wines, Barossa Valley, South Australia
- February 7: Sandalford Wines, Swan Valley, Western Australia
Legacy and Future Prospects
Jimmy Barnes’ enduring appeal lies in his ability to resonate with audiences across generations, despite the mixed reactions to his Logies performance. His upcoming tour is not just a celebration of his past achievements but also a testament to his resilience and passion for music.
As Barnes prepares to take his iconic hits on the road, the question remains whether this tour will mark a new chapter in his storied career or serve as a swan song for the legendary rocker. Regardless, his influence on the Australian music scene is undeniable, and his legacy as a Working Class Man continues to inspire fans old and new.
