Backlash for John Farnham over use of iconic song in Voice campaign
John Farnham, the celebrated Australian music legend, has allowed his timeless classic, "You're the Voice", to serve as the official soundtrack for the Yes campaign in the Indigenous Voice to Parliament referendum of 2023. This decision, however, has sparked mixed reactions from the public.
Farnham's decision to lend his 1980s hit to the campaign holds particular significance as Australia gears up for the pivotal referendum on October 14.
In a heartfelt statement, Farnham expressed his motivation for this gesture, saying, "This song changed my life. I can only hope that it now might help, in some small way, to change the lives of our First Nations people for the better."
Tim Wheatley, the son of Farnham's late longtime manager Glenn Wheatley, added, "Win or lose this referendum, this song will forever remain on the right side of history."
The campaign video featuring the song will be widely disseminated, appearing on television, social media and various digital platforms.
However, the decision to use Farnham's iconic track has not been without controversy. Some critics argue that the campaign missed an opportunity to promote the event using an Indigenous artist, thereby highlighting the importance of Indigenous voices in this critical moment.
Opposition Leader Peter Dutton also expressed his reservations about the choice of song. He remarked, "In a sense, it's the appropriate theme song for the Yes campaign because remember that the key line in the lyrics there is, you know, 'you're the Voice, try to understand it.' I honestly don't think most Australians understand it. And they want to be informed."
The two-minute campaign ad is a poignant montage that showcases significant moments in Australian history, all experienced through the lens of television. As Farnham's hit plays in the background, viewers witness iconic events such as Cathy Freeman's historic victory at the 2000 Olympics, former Prime Minister John Howard's landmark gun reform in 1996, and Kevin Rudd's heartfelt apology to the stolen generations in 2008.
I used to think the song "You're The Voice" was for all Australians.
Disappointed that John Farnham has decided to make it divisive and political.
Have your say privately by voting John but not like this.
Still wish you well in recovery.#VoteNO23Australia pic.twitter.com/29lxkmCFWG
— Jenny (@JennyandFreedom) September 3, 2023
Image: Supplied