FIRST TIME HEARING || John Farnham - When the War Is Over

[@GarySargent-t5q]

Thank goodness for Glen Wheatley, because without him, we might never have seen the best of John Farnham. In his early career, Farnham was unfairly typecast due to poor management, which left him on the verge of fading into obscurity. But then Glen Wheatley stepped in, recognizing the untapped potential in Farnham's extraordinary talent. It wasn't just Glen's belief that made the difference-it was the unwavering support of his wife, who stood by his side and encouraged him to take a chance on Farnham. Together, they gave Farnham the platform he needed to truly shine. The result? A legendary career that might never have happened if not for the faith and determination of Glen Wheatley and his wife.

[@turdferguson400]

Well said, Gary. ❤👍

[@barnowl.]

Yes and so true.

[@carolynh8866]

@@GarySargent-t5q too true

[@bendgeddes]

John never hesitated to publicly give credit to his band, singers, techies, Glen and family. He’s got class and the best backing him up. 👍

[@grahamejohn6847]

I think no one could say they didn't get their money's worth from a John Farnham concert.

[@carolynh8866]

You know, singers come and go and you like them and their songs at the time and the songs were cool and interesting and made you happy but after a while they fade away and they disappear into the back of your memory and when you hear them sing that song again years later there's maybe a fond memory. But not the case with John, he's been front and centre his whole career and I still want to hear his music every day. And when I hear him sing, even all these years later, I still get goosebumps everytime. I hope John's music brings you as much joy for the rest of your life as he has brought to me and so many other Aussies. ❤

[@AussieDebb]

@@carolynh8866 Ditto Carolyn ♥️♥️♥️

[@marionthompson3365]

John had it all. Wonderful, powerful vocal, perfect diction, stage presence, and a thoroughly decent man.

[@wayback479]

When Farnsey sings ppl stop n listen . The man is a genius and very much loved . This Chisel song can also be adapted to about the war John is going thru now with his health . I smile and also shed a tear 😊😢. Much love to John and family.

[@sharonconstable4483]

John farnham, his back up singers & his band puts there heart ❤️ into there songs

[@mssuziquzi]

John was 54 here and still blowing it out of the ballpark.❤

[@lizann3058]

Aussie here. I don't think we'll EVER get enough John Farnham. We have been so blessed to have had him in our lives...

[@georgeibrahim7945]

I can see the smile on your face when John sings. John is a powerhouse, he’s next level and he’s in his 50s during this particular performance.

[@barnowl.]

What will blow you away is John and his band singing in a capella Stevie Wonder's song named, ' Love's In Need '. It is heart-wrenchingly beautiful and very relevant to the times on this planet at present. (I always click on a thumbs up for John Farnham.)

[@MargaretGuppy]

YES!!!! BRILLIANT

[@beverleyjones4179]

John Farnham was classically trained from a young age, in LRB he was made to sing only their type of songs and was never treated right. That’s why he came home after 2 years where he could once again use his amazing range. It’s so sad he probably will never sing again due to throat cancer.

[@turdferguson400]

I remember Mike once said something to the effect of ‘If John Farnham ever hit a bum note, I think I’d fall off my chair’. Not much risk of that happening with our Farnsey. ❤🇦🇺👍 Cheers, Mike, cheers, Shaz. ❤ Great request. ❤

[@briangill4000]

8:24. John does that to you.... no matter how many times you hear him, he still blows you away with his power and control.

[@beresfordthompson1370]

John Farnham is the greatest and most versatile male vocalist of all time, he can sing anything, any genre including opera. This is a great song from cold chisel and John has done it quite a few times but I think this is the best version of all time. The passion and emotion John puts into this is incredible, he puts everything into this performance and you really feel it with him. He is so great. And Brett Garsed on guitar as always great.

[@stephanielane1821]

Love John Farnham, thanks for the reaction !!

[@paulpeters5659]

I am currently listening to John's book, "The Voice Inside" now, read by him. Absolutely amazing, and to hear John speaking again, fantastic. Do yourself a favour Mike and download a copy. Thanks again for reacting to John singing. He is in a league of his own.

[@shoresaresandy]

I’ve listened to the whole book and John’s voice seems to get much better by the end of it.

[@riiidiculoso8697]

Good on you, for upholding the standards of clear communication - unlike so many others, who describe listening to an audiobook as “reading”. Also, you’re right - Farnsy is A1! 🎶

[@dalebadman6700]

John Farnham is, was and always will be Australia’s pride and joy a gentleman amongst men. Take care Johnny.. and Ty Mike.

[@Jojomac-ix7oi]

Every song is open to personal interpretation, and I first interpreted it about a coming home from war song. Everyone of us, in some point in our lives, is faced with a war on a personal level, whether it be in a relationship, a neighbour, or a complete stranger. It doesn't matter whether it's a global war, or a deeply personal war, it still affects us in some way, emotionally. John interprets this song beautifully. Thank you Mike for reacting to this. ❤❤

[@AnnieD.1982]

Hello lovely Jojo 🥰❤❤ Hope all is well. Nothing like sitting back in front of the air con listening to Farnsey on a hot 40 degree day in Adelaide. What a shame indeed!! 😅🤗💗💗

[@Jojomac-ix7oi]

@AnnieD.1982 hi Annie. It's actually quite cool and pleasant today. It's raining and it's a perfect day for some John, but alas, I'm babysitting. So my time spent with John is on hold for a bit longer. Enjoy your hot Adelaide day with John...❤️❤️❤️😊🫠

[@AnnieD.1982]

​@@Jojomac-ix7oiThat is good. Glad you have some cooler weather today 😊❤ Hopefully you will get to enjoy some more John later. I am onto another video now that I have had a cool shower and done some bits and pieces around the house. Thank goodness for air conditioning is all I can say!!! 😅 Take care Jojo. Talk again soon! 🤗💗💗☀️🌡

[@step1drag1dwnunda]

Yep, you just can't help but smile listening to him, so uplifting. Cheers Mike.

[@turdferguson400]

❤ Farnsey just hits me in the feels every single time. ❤️🇦🇺👍

[@PaulaFletcher-z1v]

John never fails to hit the notes or the emotional spot. He nails it. His version of the Beatles “Help” gives whole new meaning to the song, and then there’s his classic, “You’re the Voice.” That’s an anthem.

[@judileeming1589]

John does not need musical accompaniment. His voice is an instrument. I only met him once, and he was just a boy then, but he has never changed, humble, sweet, genuine and talent personified. We are all growing and changing our entire lives and sometimes we can love someone but we can’t live with that person and still be happy and as we all only have one life, you have to continue on your journey through life without leaving bad feelings behind on either side, especially among the other people in your lives. I am older than all my brothers and I love them, but I couldn’t live with them. We have all grown up and have our own feelings and opinions and when recalling our childhood it is obvious we each have our own reality as we each experienced it and the memories we held on to and treasured.

[@paullewis2559]

And just to add to John's Bio he is a high-level Cutting horse competitor and breeder, and an all-round great bloke. I Bumped into him at a cutting comp and we chatted for a few minutes during which I thanked him for the many years of entertainment he provided, and he was almost embarrassed what a humble guy.

[@Bobbygirl63]

Thanks for another great reaction to our John, Mike. It's impossible to fault John's vocals at any age. He started off with a great voice that just got better and better over the years. I get chills every time I hear him performing this song. Although most people seem to prefer this performance, and I love it, too, I actually prefer him performing it in the Whispering Jack concert. Regardless of which version everyone prefers, both of them are mind blowing.

[@tanyabarwise5978]

Barnsy ( Jimmy) and Farnsey t There's a video where they do this together live. Awesome.

[@kennethdodemaide8678]

John was 54 years old at this time. Still as good as ever.

[@julieholland9639]

Our legendary mr Farnham is known as the voice here in Australia and loved for being a great down to earth guy. He is now getting over cancer and i dont believe we will see him sing again sadly. Thank god he has left such a beautiful collection of songs for us .

[@juliemcaleese5921]

Absolutely amazing ❤

[@TheNotedHero]

3:53 yep, that smile is the effect John has on all of us. Absolute legend.

[@briangill4000]

You are right. I think it was written about a relationship breakdown. You can make it fit other scenarios as well, but every word makes more sense with that point of view.

[@iceberg5220]

Thanks Buck. This performance is Timeless.

[@jgsheehan8810]

I like the intro with your truck driving by followed by the Son of Buck screen.

[@ChristinePomeroy]

Enjoyed your reaction, been a fan of John for 55 years

[@AnnieD.1982]

And there you have it, Farnsey blowing us away once more 😍👍❤️❤️ This performance is one of John's best. The way he portrays emotion,he can do it like no other. He really is special 🥰 Thanks Mike, you can talk as much as you like about Farnsey, I do not mind one bit!!! 😅😉❤❤

[@Jojomac-ix7oi]

@@AnnieD.1982 I don't mind either 🥰

[@AnnieD.1982]

​@@Jojomac-ix7oi😉🤗💗💗

[@carolynh8866]

@@AnnieD.1982 and me too. Keep talking about Farnsey!

[@AnnieD.1982]

Thanks ladies. We can never get enough Farnsey chatter!!! 😄🤗🥰💗💗

[@Joshualuv13]

Indeed. Us Aussies love our Farnsy.Also can tell you his a top bloke.. as my brother in law went to school with him in Victoria, Australia.Shout out from Tasmania, Australia 🦘

[@vickidomanski4277]

Fun I went to school in Tassie left there when I was 16 and I loved our John I have seen him about four and five times I got to meet him back In Tassie at the Granada Traven

[@briangill4000]

Morning Mike 6.34k. I think John was in his singing prime around this time.

[@turdferguson400]

Morning, Gilly! ❤

[@BobLouden-r9q]

G'day Mike, if you're interested look up John from i think 1967 when he first started singing doing, SADIE.then 1969 LUCILLE 1970, RAINDROPS.

[@suewilkinson6103]

Thanks for reacting to this version of John singing this song. It’s one of my favourites. John was 54 at this concert & the maturity in his voice really shines through. It gives me goosebumps every time I hear him sing this.

[@AussieDebb]

Thanks Mike - this is a phenomenal performance by John. He does start it off by speaking about the horrible things happening in the world, and this was not long after terror attacks in 2001 and 2002 and the aftermath, but I also hear in this how we handle our daily battles. Others have said its how soldiers share their stories after coming home from war and what they have to live through on a daily basis. Great reactiin. Love our John ❤️❤️

[@AnnieD.1982]

Hi Debb 🥰🤗 Hope you are enjoying your weekend. Any updates in when part 20 is coming out? Much love my friend 😍💗💗

[@AussieDebb]

@AnnieD.1982 Hi Annie - it should be Monday or Tuesday - Paul is travelling home from tomorrow so should be set up. ♥️❤️ I lost a very dear Aunt yesterday morning - Alzheimer's - the last of Mums same generation rellies. I have 2 left on Dad's side - they are 94 and 91. We 8 kids and her 6 kids are very close cousins. Oh but they'll all be having a ball up there together and my boy will be loving it too ♥️💖 See you at the lives soon 😍 Hope you're ok dear friend ♥️♥️

[@AnnieD.1982]

@@AussieDebb Thank you for letting me know ❤️ Oh Debb, I am so sorry to hear of your loss. Your family is going through a lot lately. I hope you are okay 🫂❤️ I am so glad you have close family to be there for you and each other. That is something to cherish and so very important. I know they are all with one another. I truely believe all those we have lost are waiting for us and we will see them again 💕💕💕🫶 Thank you Debb. I have had a rough week, nothing like yourself. Life throwing a lot to challenge me. I am okay, just struggling a little. John helps as always and some good friends and family. Thank goodness for them when we need them 🥰 Please take care and I hope to chat to you in a live soon. Much love my friend, I am sorry that you are going through another loss so soon after the last 💗💗💗

[@AussieDebb]

@AnnieD.1982 I'm watching the 60 years of John Farnham on channel 9. I missed it on the big screen last time - so this is fantastic. It's quite funny - every performance that comes on I can say that was in 1994 or concert for Rwanda or 1980 etc. I have learnt so much doing this series and the best part besides watching so much of this extraordinary, beautiful man is meeting all of my new friends 💗❤️ Love you guys so much 💗🥰

[@EileenSpeakman]

@@AussieDebb Hi Debbie, I'm catching up after a few disrupted weeks - nothing dramatic, just little niggles, and two storms, just a week apart, that kept upsetting my plans, re-arranging my schedules for me. Really sorry to learn that you haven't had an easy time recently, I hope you can have a settled Christmas and Festive season, and a good 2025. I've been checking daily for Part 20, I'm really looking forward to it, and there have been a couple of other uploads recently, songs I don't recall, but may have viewed them when I first started following John. I'm going to post a Christmassyreply to AnnieD. And then to Bernadette L. And Kappy - I'm away for Christmas. You and yours have a Happy Christmas, Debbie, and a Happy New Year. All love. UK. E♥️

[@MaxHay-q9p]

Love seeing g peoples faces when they hear John's voice. It is impossible not be able to smile and feel joy when he sings. Such a legend. Thanks for your reaction to John.

[@michellebrewer6302]

Chisel did it from people returning home from war but so relevant to any topic that you need, as people age their voices go bad, not farnsey tho, guy is a superlegend!!

[@patsmith2151]

John Farnham, is an absolute beautiful human being! No if’s or buts and an incredible, awesome talent! I have grown up listening to him- we are about the same age! I absolutely adore and respect him! He has given us so much!

[@heatherwickstead7980]

We Aussies do love our John Farnham! Thanks so much for reacting to him again ❤️

[@mareebrown-e3n]

Such a superstar. He and I are the same age, and I first saw him in a live performance when I was 17, and so was he. I really wish that I had known what a star he was going to become, I would have hung on every note.

[@dalewyatt1321]

We were a bit spoiled in Oz with some of the acts we could go and see back then.

[@jenniferharrison8915]

Not my favourite, but if I had been there I would have been absolutely thrilled with the atmosphere! Great guitar player! ❤️👍

[@karenstrong8887]

I went to one of John’s concerts in 2003. It was amazing but he only does amazing. You really need to see how much he puts into every concert. Thank you.

[@kethlyfallon5095]

Love John so much and these reactions to his brilliance ❤❤k

[@justlinsu]

I would argue that it is yes about a relationship but also he was referring to a young man at war and talking about his mates and wanting to get home to his loved one and 'Not get blown away' imho

[@LeanneAnderson-e5c]

And Australia 🇦🇺

[@louiseciur316]

It's called a soldier's heart that's why at the end of the concert he was pointing at his heart it's a war song not a love story a war song

[@mizpahshearer1659]

I'm so glad you said it. It definitely is. John's introduction to the song says so.

[@SonofBuck-f7z]

Well damn... That's what I thought when I heard Ian Moss sing it, but several people said it was about a break up. I guess it means different things to different people. If you listed, it can work both ways. (maybe)

[@Kim-m2v]

You need to google an Australian song call “I was only 19”. I defy you not to cry. Kim Australia 🇦🇺

[@wallywombat164]

I like you Mike, you Son of a Gun because, unlike the greater majority of American reactors, there are no over reacting histrionics with you. Good onya MIKE.

[@SonofBuck-f7z]

Thanks Wally

[@coraliemoller3896]

John Farnham puts the lyrics of songs into context in a way that many other performers just cannot do. I’ve seen video of Ian Moss singing this song, but it was just words set to music for me. With Farnham, I feel the meaning of the words by his expression, his vocal mobility and his physical presence and commitment to the story. I have CDs of his work but I never got the whole effect until I started watching his live performances. As a Beatles fan from the 1960s, I was familiar with the song ‘Help!’ from the movie of the same name. Until I saw John Farnham’s performance live, with the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra, I never really took in the meaning of the words. And after the battle Farnham had to get beyond the Johnny Farnham of ‘Sadie’ and King of Pop fame, the words about needing help and appreciating (the fans) being around, I feel the truth behind the words, and I much prefer Farnham’s version.

[@carbine5378]

A little bit of trivia … the young girl that was backing him in this song is the daughter of one of the dancers that appeared with him when he sang Sadie back in the 60’s.

[@ChrisFirth-do2sm]

@@carbine5378 one of the cleaners. The one on your Right.

[@frankiesullivan6015]

John is the G.O.A.T.

[@markjames3522]

How this Cold Chisel classic ended up being a Farnham staple goes back to his last year in the Little River Band . Well after Cold Chisel originally broke up in 1984 drummer and this songs writer Steve Prestwich walked out of Cold Chisel and into the Little River Band after LRB’s original drummer left the band . LRB’s founding member Graham Goble and John Farnham love the song so pretty much it was going be performed by LRB . LRB was also financially in the red and current members was only getting paid through songwriting royalties . So Steve Prestwich agreeing for LRB to do a rerecording probably was a financial decision . LRB recorded their version for the underrated 1986 album No Reins it was only single release from the album that featured John on lead vocals . LRB’s record label Capital Records only released When The War Is Over as single to capitalise on John Farnham’s solo success with You’re The Voice that was dominating the charts October through to December 1986 . But the single flopped because LRB wasn’t active by that time Steve and John left the band in the beginning to mid of that same year 1986 , so there was zero promotion . John did a little adding the song to his solo concert set list . In 1988 BMG John recording label asked him can he rerecord When The War Is Over to used a single b side bonus track . John said in an interview that he was reluctant because it only recorded it with LRB 2 years earlier and was happy laving his version under the LRB name. But the recording company talked him into it .

[@gailwarnock2764]

Ian Moss wrote it I think it is a COLD Chisel song a fantastic song both men sing it beautifully both great singers .

[@gailwarnock2764]

My favourite singer just love John he’s wonderful simply the best .

[@hegehalvorsenalgardstad7633]

This version is good but check out the preformace from The Whispering Jack tour. It’s even better.

[@Kim-m2v]

You should also listen to John Farnham and jimmy Barnes together with deisel on guitar. OMG. TOP SELF

[@EileenSpeakman]

I drop everything to view anything John Farnham. Farnsey - the best. Backing singers - the best. Band - the best. Is this song really about relationship breakup, or is it about the damaging mental effect / PTSD from being involved in military conflict? I thought I knew the answer to that, but perhaps I don't? Could anyone please provide the background to this? Thank you. Given the time of year - Merry Christmas and a peaceful New Year to all in this chat community. Dec'24. UK E❤. PS. This song makes me shed tears. I don't think I'd be shedding tears over relationship breakups?

[@turdferguson400]

Merry Christmas, Eileen! ❤🎄🎁💝

[@EileenSpeakman]

@@turdferguson400Thank you. E♥️

[@EileenSpeakman]

​@@turdferguson400 Hi, got a few moments to myself. Thank you for Christmas wishes, and I hope you and yours have a wonderful time and a really good 2025. I don't do Christmas any more, I go to my children and am thoroughly spoiled, which is lovely. I see from The Project on YT that it really is hot in Oz now - It's really cold here, damp cold. Roll on our summer. Take care. E♥️

[@juliemorrison3746]

It’s actually a Cold Chisel song which is an Australian band which is held in high regard. John looked up to Jimmy and the band a lot. It would be great for you to review When Something is Wrong with my baby with John Farnham and Jimmy Barnes. It’s a great song with 2 great Australian icons.

[@taniaPBear]

I mean, it's not just about a break up, it's a bad divorce, which can be a horrendous conflict and leave a lot of scars and damage in it's wake, hence the kind of comparison I guess. Great reaction Mike, so glad you've gotten to know our John, there's plenty more he can surprise you with. I feel so at home here with you on this channel, weird innit? ✌❤

[@SonofBuck-f7z]

I'm glad you feel good about this channel Tania.... I enjoy learning about ya'lls culture and your talented performers.

[@Elle.G.74]

The female back up singer is Nikki Nicholls as Lisa had just had a baby and was also in the audience at this concert.

[@coraliemoller3896]

I think it is Dannielle Gaha.

[@Elle.G.74]

@ my bad, yes you are correct. Nikki was back up singer in the 80s with the Whispering Jack album. I shouldn’t comment when extremely tired

[@louiseciur316]

It's about the wars like first world war and so on listen to the words

[@58ozgirl]

I love Ian Moss

[@EileenSpeakman]

Dear Mike - l so enjoyed this, John has been my passion for about two years now, I watch anything and everything Farnsey, . And I do love your calm reactions on all your uploads, and the odd snippets you include. Tim Tam slam - I found these biscuits in a supermarket so had a go - didn't work for me! I think the chocolate melted more quickly than our UK chocolate? We have a similar biscuit, called Penguin, and the chocolate has a different taste. Christmas is galloping up, so I wish you and yours a very Happy Christmas and a wonderful New Year. Dec'24. UK. E ♥️

[@pierre-andrehentzien6003]

Y not greeting a Texas guy from Hamburg/Germany to thank him for reacting? Have a nice christmas time!

[@SonofBuck-f7z]

Happy holidays!

[@petermcculloch4933]

You would probably prefer to listen to John sing a country song.Try "Talk Of The Town".

[@tcullen3684]

You'd need to be brave to cover a Cold Chisel, Australian rock classic & expect to get away with it. Clearly, John has a big set of lungs & it seems that’s not all.

[@wyattfamily8997]

Suggest you have a listen to Johns recording of "Black Dog", better than the original, and it was only a "warm up" prior to his concerts.

[@digger1610]

One of my favourite John performances is his duet with Olivia Newton John singing Please Don't Ask Me.

[@mrmockatoo6786]

Hey Mike sre you using the filter/compression that you use to suppress the rain on the roof.? I heard it on The Seekers track and now it's on this one too. Professional sound guys mix these tracks to make them high fidelity. Whatever you have going on is muddying the sound and causing pulsing. Now, you know I love you, but STOP IT!

[@SonofBuck-f7z]

Shoot, I don't know. I'll have another look at the audio processing. Someday, I may get it right.

[@mrmockatoo6786]

@@SonofBuck-f7z Thanks mate. We're on your side and we've all got stuff we can learn so have a fiddle or ask a teenager. 😄

[@gavvisser2176]

not a fan of his version.. only chisel can sing this. this is to poppy

[@EileenSpeakman]

@@gavvisser2176 Each to his/her own. Variety is the spice of life, makes the world go round. E♥️

[@ChrisFirth-do2sm]

Jimmy likes it.

[@markjames3522]

John first sung When The War Is Over while in the Little River Band this songs creator drummer Steve Prestwich was also a member of LRB at that same time . Steve Prestwich walked straight out of Cold Chisel and into LRB in 1984 . Steve agreed that LRB to re-record a version because there was no money be made for non songwriters within LRB . Steve was in the same situation financially as John within LRB . When The War Was Over was added to The Playing To Win Tour 1985 then it was recorded for LRB’s last album with John and Steve No Reins 1986 . LRB’s American label capital records only released When The War Is Over as a single to cash in John’s solo success with You’re The Voice . There was zero promotion because John and Steve had already left LRB by that time . A reluctant John Farnham was asked by his record label BMG in 1988 the cover the song again . John said in an interview the record label talked him into it . He believed and was content with leaving his version with LRB . BMG wanted a solo version to be used a single b side for Age Of Reason single . John said be only agreed on it because he didn’t enjoy recording it with LRB that production was awkward what the producer put the band through vocally to get that recording perfect . John enjoyed recording the song his way on he’s own terms his own band 1988 sessions . So in a weird way because of songwriter Steve Prestwich also being in LRB it’s confusing to call it a cover maybe just a re-recorded reimagined version . So in a weird sense it equally John Farnham’s as it’s Jimmy Barnes’s and Ian Moss’s .

[@EileenSpeakman]

@@markjames3522 very interesting, thank you. I've been following John for a little over two years and am enjoying learning about his background. Dec'24.. UK. E♥️

[@anth5189]

This is an Australian anthem.

[@JenniferKornet]

Check him out in his younger days 1 handsome dude John has just come though throat cancer recently and surgery on his face we love u johnny

[@briangill4000]

8:24. John does that to you.... no matter how many times you hear him, he still blows you away with his power and control.