Diesel lets fans choose the soundtrack

Diesel's By Request tour puts the song choices in the hands of the audience, with local shows planned for Barwon Heads and Lorne. Photo: Jesse Lizotte.

AFETR a string of sold-out performances around the country, Diesel is bringing his audience-led By Request tour to Barwon Heads and Lorne, giving local fans the chance to help shape the setlist.

The acclaimed singer-songwriter and guitarist will perform at Barwon Heads Hotel on 9 October and Lorne Theatre on 20 November as part of a 22-date regional Victorian and New South Wales tour.

Unlike a traditional concert, By Request invites audiences to submit the songs they want to hear before each show, with Diesel drawing from both his own extensive catalogue and fan-selected covers to create a different setlist every night.

The format has become one of the tour’s biggest drawcards, with requests ranging from classic rock favourites to unexpected pop standards.

“The longer we do these shows, the more I realise just how much fun it is handing over the reins,” Diesel said.

“I love the light and shade that the requests are bringing to my show, from Hendrix to Gershwin. Getting to play a classic like Moon River and Stay by Rihanna was not on my bingo card before By Request.

“I can’t wait to see what songs are requested for this next run of shows.”

Diesel said hearing the stories behind fans’ song selections had become one of the most rewarding parts of the tour.

“I’m thrilled to be visiting more parts of regional NSW and Victoria,” he said.

“This By Request show has proven to be a deep well of exploration and connection, and after decades of live performances, I feel we share the same tastes too.

“I love hearing the anecdotes behind the songs being selected – inspiring and humbling at once.”

Born in the United States and raised in Australia, Diesel has been a fixture of the Australian music scene since emerging with Johnny Diesel & The Injectors in the late 1980s.

The multiple ARIA Award winner has released a string of acclaimed albums across a career spanning more than 40 years and remains one of the country’s most respected live performers.

For tickets, head to dieselmusic.com.au