Graeme Clarke – A Lifetime in Music
Arriving in Australia from New Zealand in 1980, I began pursuing a lifelong passion for music. Initially a hobby, this love for entertainment soon found me performing in and around the Newcastle and Sydney area. It wasn’t long before I decided to take the leap into a professional music career. My early ventures included the release of an LP album, Graeme Clarke Sings Your Favourites, and a single featuring Tender Trap and Darling, On Your Way Out Close the Door. These works laid the foundation for what would become an extensive musical journey across Australia.
While touring greater Australia, I had a significant milestone during my time in Brisbane in 1985 when Tender Trap climbed to No. 9 on the Country Music Charts.
In 1998, now based in South Australia, I embarked on a new creative phase, writing seven original songs for the 14-track album Footprints in the Sand at Wallaroo. This release resonated deeply with local audiences, selling over 1,500 copies. Encouraged by its success, I followed up with another 14-track album, One for the Road, which included four more original compositions. My creative pursuits also took me internationally, where I collaborated with Vaughn Lofstead at the “Smoke House Studio” in Nashville, TN. Teaming up with a local singer, I released Boots, Things, and Golden Rings, a title inspired by the thematic elements of the songs within.
My most recent album, Hell & Back, showcases a mix of Australian and Nashville influences. The album includes two tracks carried over from my previous album, recorded and mastered in Nashville, TN. Among its many successes, the track Country Club reached No. 1 on the European Country Music Charts in January 2014, while Just Call Me Lonesomeand Baby, Are You Getting Tired of Me both achieved No. 1 rankings on the International Mainstream Country Music Chart in 2017. The title track, Hell and Back, found international acclaim, reaching No. 11 on the Country Music Internet Top 30 Indie Chart in April 2017, garnering over 600 weekly spins.
In March 2017, I was honored to be ranked No. 12 among the Top 200 International Artists, sharing recognition alongside legends such as Waylon Jennings, Dwight Yoakam, and Willie Nelson.
The accolades continued in January 2021 when my song I’ve Had a Beautiful Time was voted Song of the Month on ARZUK Radio in California. It went on to become their Song of the Year. In 2022, I received the prestigious “Golden Day Award” at the FPCM Red Carpet Awards in The Netherlands for my modern rendition of the timeless classic Mona Lisa.
In 2023, a new chapter began when UK composer Dave McGerty from the Music Farm approached me with a collaborative opportunity. Together, across time zones and continents, we created How Long Before the Rain Sets In, released in August 2024.
Continuing to honor my past work, I revisited a deeply personal song in November 2024, remastering a track written two decades prior but never released. With heartfelt lyrics that resonate with long-married couples, Always My Best Friend has become a testament to enduring love and connection.
Through decades of passion, creativity, and collaboration, I remain dedicated to sharing my music with the world. Each song represents a chapter of my life, and I look forward to continuing this journey with my audience.
Graeme Clarke’s music is a rich tapestry of heartfelt storytelling, timeless melodies, and genuine emotion. Rooted in the traditions of classic country, his songs explore themes of love, loss, resilience, and life’s enduring beauty.
With a voice that captures both strength and vulnerability, Graeme seamlessly blends traditional country charm with modern influences, creating a sound that is as nostalgic as it is refreshing. From chart-topping hits like Country Club to deeply personal tracks like Always My Best Friend, his music invites listeners on a journey filled with raw authenticity and relatable experiences.
Each song is crafted with care, making Graeme’s music not just something to listen to, but something to feel. Whether you’re drawn to soulful lyrics, soaring melodies, or the timeless charm of classic country, Graeme’s music has something for everyone. Explore his discography today and uncover songs that inspire, comfort, and connect on a deeply personal level.
StarCentral Bio:
ARTIST: Graeme Clarke
SONG: Always My Best Friend
WRITERS: Robert Muddyman
Originally from New Zealand, Graeme Clarke has built a career in Australian country music.
After moving to Australia in 1980, Graeme quickly made his mark with early releases, including the LP Graeme Clarke Sings Your Favourites and the single Tender Trap, which reached No. 9 on the Country charts in 1985. These early successes set the stage for a lifelong journey of musical exploration and storytelling.
Settling in South Australia in 1998, Graeme’s talent flourished with a series of albums, including Footprints in the Sand at Wallaroo and One for the Road, which showcased his ability to blend heartfelt lyrics with captivating melodies. Graeme’s music reflects a deep connection to life’s journey, often inspired by themes of resilience, love, and the beauty of nature. Graeme’s recent album, Hell & Back, not only resonated with Australian audiences but also earned international acclaim, with multiple tracks topping country music charts. Recognitions such as the “2022 Golden Day Award in the Netherlands” affirmed their global impact.
In 2024, Graeme continued to evolve creatively, releasing the poignant track How Long Before the Rain Sets In alongside this single of Always My Best Friend. These releases demonstrate his ability to balance timeless storytelling with modern production, ensuring his music remains relevant and impactful. With a career spanning decades, Graeme’s work continues to inspire both longtime fans and new listeners alike.
Beyond the music itself, this Graeme’s journey reflects an unwavering dedication to his craft and a passion for connecting with audiences. His story is one of perseverance and reinvention, proving that it’s never too late to achieve new milestones. Through each song and album, Graeme continues to remind us of the power of music to heal, inspire, and bring people together.
