Bravado, Fun, and a Little Vulnerability: Bernard Fanning's Take 5


 

Bernard Fanning, Powderfinger frontman and Rallee investor, recently opened up on Take 5 with Zan Rowe.

In his conversation with Zan, Bernard revealed the authentic, down-to-earth bloke we know and love.

 

 Known for filling arenas yet valuing the quiet moments, Bernard shared stories that highlighted his creative journey, philosophy on music, and candid reflections on life. His humour, honesty, and warmth shone through, making it a memorable watch (or listen to the podcast ep).

Reflecting on his time with Powderfinger, Bernard shared insights into his creative process and band dynamics, often describing it as a team effort, in a process they used to call ‘Taking it through council’: “If it’s something that makes you kind of have the hairs on the back of your neck stand up, then you’ve got a good chance of getting that across.”

 

Authenticity absolutely permeates his music; he writes and sings with such impact and sincerity. Bernard describes the importance of strong beginnings,

“… the opening of the line of the record, the opening line of each song, the opening line of a show, the opening is really important. You’ve gotta get it right. You’ve gotta make an impact.”

In another genuine (and funny) bit, BF admits, “Even standing in front of 15,000 people, that’s easy. It’s so much easier than… parenting.” This totally shows his relatability, grounding him as not just a rock icon, but also a Dad who sometimes finds challenges in the everyday. (Don’t we all?!)

 

Bernard came up with his own theme for this one; he was super keen to explore the world’s of vulnerability and bravado, selecting tracks that have shaped his musical journey. One standout was 1999 by Prince. (Solid choice!) Bernard says of its carefree vibe,

“It’s pure fun… it just makes you wanna move.”

We totally agree. This all-time tune really highlights Bernard’s appreciation for the magic of music to spark joy, even when its themes touch on the deeper stuff.

 

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Bernard Fanning's Take 5 selections:

• AC/DC – ‘Jailbreak’
• David Bowie – ‘Sound And Vision’
• Nina Simone – 'I Wish I Knew How It Would Feel To Be Free’
• Prince – ‘1999’
• Bob Dylan – ‘Most Of The Time’

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A New Chapter: ‘Fanning Dempsey National Park’

Concluding with a look forward, Bernard shared his stoke for his latest project, Fanning Dempsey National Park, a collaboration with Paul Dempsey. With a mix of curiosity and a fearless drive, he riffs,

“Let’s push ourselves into something we’re not sure about, but also something that’s going to be fun.”

 

 

As with all his creative pursuits, Bernard approaches this project with both bravery and a sense of adventure, ready to explore new musical landscapes with his characteristic openness and passion.

 

We just wanna wish him well. 😉