The end of the beginning for an Aussie musician

AFTER almost six decades on the road, Russell Morris is hanging up his guitar, but not before embarking on one final tour.

As part of his farewell circuit, Morris will perform two in-demand shows at Twin Towns Services Club in Tweed Heads on August 23.

He said the decision to step away from touring was made about eight months ago, and it was something he wanted to decide for himself.

“I thought I’ve done everything, I’ve enjoyed every minute of it, I’ve loved all the people I’ve met, of course there’s been times when it can be awful, but it has been great most of the time.

“I’ve been incredibly lucky and I figured it’s time, sometimes sportsmen play beyond when they should have retired, and I figure I’d rather tap myself on the shoulder rather than get word from someone else who figures that it’s time for me to retire.”

After producing music and touring for the past 58 years, Morris continues to draw strong support, with high demand for tickets leading to additional shows being added.

He said he hadn’t planned a farewell tour at first, unsure whether anyone would book tickets, let alone sell out venues.

“It’s a wonderful surprise and I’m very grateful to all the people that have booked tickets and we hopefully won’t let you down, we’ll do the best show we can.”

Fans lucky enough to secure a seat can expect a mix of Morris’ biggest hits, some lesser-known songs, and a new release.

His new single, End of the Beginning, was written during a time when he was reflecting on retirement and grieving the loss of a close friend.

Inspired by thoughts of what comes next after death and after a life on stage, the song explores both personal and universal themes.

“I thought about a great speech that Winston Churchill gave, one of many of these great speeches during the war, and one of them, this is perhaps not the beginning of the end, but the end of the beginning,” Morris said.

“I thought what a great line, because at the end of the beginning, there’s something happening, but that’s the end of the start.”

Although he is unsure what the next chapter will look like, Morris said he will always continue to follow his passion and write music.

For tickets and more information, head to russellmorris.com.au