The Return Of Sugar Man, Rodriguez

Legendary singer-songwriter Rodriguez returns to Australia with his band this November and December for an extensive series of performances. Last touring Australian shores in the late 1970s, Rodriguez will be showcasing his captivating vocal and musical skills once again when he performs in Brisbane, South Bank, Sydney (for three consecutive performances), Hobart, Melbourne (for two consecutive performances), Adelaide (for two consecutive performances), Newtown and Perth.

Rodriguez caught the world's attention through Malik Bendjelloul’s Oscar-winning film Searching for Sugar Man. The documentary follows Rodriguez’s celebrated history that began in the bars and clubs around Detroit in the 1960s. Inspired by the city’s post-industrial urban decay, Rodriguez recorded and released albums Cold Fact (1969) and Coming From Reality (1971) that largely went unnoticed in the United States.

Cold Fact eventually filled the airwaves of South Africa where its counter-culture lyrics resonated with the country’s politically-alienated youth. Without a telephone and working factory and construction jobs to support his family, Rodriguez remained unmindful that he was bigger than Elvis in South Africa.

More than 40 years after the release of his debut, Rodriguez is finally being heard by audiences throughout Europe, the United Kingdom and North America, including recent appearances at the iconic Glastonbury and Coachella festivals.

Hailed as the downtown Bob Dylan, Rodriguez’s blend of social politics, emotional insights and street observations, highlighted in songs like ‘Sugar Man’, ‘I Wonder’ and ‘Cause’, vividly capture a certain time and place, all complemented by his impeccable voice.

"His voice remains untouched by the years, combining strength and frailty." – The Guardian

"The Rodriguez voice is all there… The legend is intact" – Time Out

"It sounded as if his singing has not aged one bit and sounded as pristine as he does on recordings from over 40 years ago." – The Huffington Post

Australian music legend and ARIA Hall of Fame inductee Russell Morris will be joining the tour as Rodriguez’s special guest for his Perth show at Kings Park & Botanic Garden on Saturday 10 December. Meanwhile, Rodriguez will be joined at all shows by fellow music luminary, Australia’s own Archie Roach except for the Perth show.

With uniquely Australian yet undeniably universal lyrics, Archie is one of Australia's most respected, beloved and admired singer/songwriters. Archie first came to the attention of most Australians with the release of his debut album Charcoal Lane (1992).

Archie Roach along with his band will perform songs from his forthcoming album Let Love Rule on this tour. Let Love Rule is Archie’s tenth studio album in what has become an extraordinary career – the new songs explore the theme of love. “I wanted to write about love, or a willingness to love all people”, says Archie.

Rodriguez’s tour last 2014 saw extra shows quickly being added in several cities to meet overwhelming demand, and his return later this year is set to be no different so act quick to grab your tickets!