THERE are few artists who have enjoyed such a long career as John Williamson.
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In the past 45 years Williamson has produced some of the most recognised and well-received songs about Australia and its people, including the iconic anthem True Blue.
You would be forgiven for thinking that Williamson, 68, would be sitting with his feet up and resting on the vast catalogue of music he has produced.
But that's not the Australian way.
Williamson released his 50th album, Honest People, in July and will perform his new music, as well as the favourites, at Wests Nelson Bay Diggers on September 6.
The Examiner spoke with Williamson as he prepared for the Bunbury to Beagle Bay Variety Bash.
"I like to keep the voice going," he said.
Williamson said Honest People was about the simple innocence of growing up in a small country town and his concern about the loss of a sense of community in them due to "progress".
Williamson will play about five songs off the new album at his Nelson Bay show, as well as some old favourites and an unrecorded song about Gallipoli and the Anzac spirit.
With about 500 songs to choose from, a 2½-hour set was never long enough for fans.
"I still have people say I thought you would have done such and such," he said.
"I guess I know the best songs, the ones people love to hear, by the amount of complaints I get if I don't do them, like Cootamundra Wattle."
Tickets to see Williamson at Diggers, available from westsnewcastle.com.au or 4981 1344, cost $40 for members and $45 for non-members.
The Examiner has a double pass to give away to the 3pm show.
To win, send your name and contact details in an email titled "John" to ewatts@fairfaxmedia.com.au by 5pm on September 2.
