Australian singer-songwriter Mike McClellan joined Australian Musician’s Greg Phillips to discuss his upcoming tour and creative projects. At 80 years old, McClellan remains in strong voice and spirit but has announced that his tour beginning October 24 and running through November will be his final long tour, citing the physical toll of travel as the main reason.
MORE ABOUT THE MIKE MCCLELLAN INTERVIEW
Despite stepping back from extensive touring, McClellan is still deeply engaged in music and writing. He has nearly completed a memoir, structured around 80 of his lyrics, with 95,000 words already written and currently under consideration with publishers. Inspired partly by works from Paul Kelly, Paul McCartney, and Jimmy Webb, the book weaves his life story with the songs that defined it.
Alongside his memoir, McClellan is planning a new acoustic recording project. Originally envisioned as re-recordings of older songs, the project has expanded to include many new compositions, reflecting his ongoing creative drive. He expects to record around April next year, likely selecting 15 to 20 tracks for release.
In discussing songwriting, McClellan described his process as beginning with ideas and emotions before moving to lyrics and music. He noted how different guitars inspire different songs, drawing on his Gibson Hummingbird and custom instruments to suit each composition.
Reflecting on influences, he cited blues players, Tom Rush, and fingerstyle pioneers like Doc Watson and Blind Blake as pivotal to his development. He also recalled encounters with Jimmy Webb and Roger Miller, the latter giving him an early and cherished compliment while touring together.
The upcoming show is being written as a two-hour retrospective, blending songs, stories, and moments from across his career.
Looking back on decades of performing, McClellan highlighted the evolution of regional Australia’s venues, with many small town halls lovingly restored by locals. One of his most vivid career memories remains performing Saturday Dance at Perth Concert Hall, where the audience’s hushed pause before applause became a defining moment of connection.
Although this may be his last extended run of shows, McClellan made clear that his creativity continues unabated. Songwriting remains a lifelong passion, and he intends to keep writing, recording, and sharing stories through music.
TOUR DATES:
Oct. 24 Gloucester Country Club
Nov. 1 Flamingos, Newcastle
Nov.2 Royal Hotel, Dungog
Nov. 8 Braidwood National Theatre
Nov. 9 Murrah Hall, Bermagui
Nov. 14 Crones House concert Melbourne
Nov. 18th Wesley Anne, Northcote, Melbourne
Nov. 22/23 Burke and Wills Winery Mia Mia, Victoria
Nov. 28 Smith’s Alternative, Canberra
Nov. 30 Petersham Bowling Club, Sydney
TICKETING INFORMATION: www.mikemcclellan.com.au/concerts
WEBSITE: www.mikemcclellan.com.au