THE autumn sun sets slowly over Swan Hill, casting long golden shadows over empty paddocks and quiet streets.
But in the stillness, a heartbeat grows – the strum of an acoustic guitar, the murmur of a gathering crowd.
Australian singer-songwriter Pete Murray is in town, and for him, these country stops are more than just dots on a tour poster – they’re the soul of his music journey.
“It was awesome, really good,” Murray said, recalling four shows in New Zealand last week.
“People loved it.
“It was very different – I haven’t done this sort of thing in this country or New Zealand before.”
Murray’s tour, which kicks off tonight Darwin, is his first-ever solo acoustic run in Australia – a stripped-back, honest showcase of a man whose songs have quietly shaped the lives of thousands.
He admits Swan Hill was a late addition to the 50-plus show itinerary, but a deliberate one.
“I don’t think I’ve ever been to Swan Hill before,” Murray said.
“You guys must like music there, so I thought I’d come down and check it out.”
Beyond curiosity, there’s purpose in Murray’s choice to head regional.
“Anywhere in the regional areas is beneficial for artists,” he said.
“It’s hard to have success in this country, and even harder to have a career.
“But if you can get the support of regional areas – people streaming your music, showing up to your gigs – you’ve got a good shot at building something lasting.”
It’s a rare honesty in an industry where success often feels like smoke and mirrors.
Murray isn’t shy about the challenges artists face in Australia, especially when competing against international acts dominating global streaming playlists.
“It’s a small market here,” he said.
“A lot of those playlists come from overseas, and Aussie artists get left out.
“It would be nice if the government introduced a quota to ensure local music is supported, otherwise, people give up.
“They just can’t keep going.”
His new track, I Am Fire, burns with that same defiance – inspired by real-world heroes who stand up to injustice and risk everything for others.
“To me, those people are the real heroes,” Murray said.
“That kind of bravery, putting yourself in harm’s way for the sake of others – that’s something rare.
“I’m really proud of the lyrics in that song.”
Of course, no Pete Murray show is complete without Better Days, a modern Australian classic that has resonated with fans for nearly two decades.
And for some, it’s done more than just offer comfort – it’s offered survival.
“I’ve had people tell me that song kept them alive,” Murray said.
“They were ready to give up, but the lyrics helped them push through.
“That’s the greatest compliment you can get.”
In a world where so much music is manufactured, Murray remains a rare breed – authentic, thoughtful, and committed to the craft and the people behind it.
He’s also a fierce advocate for artists’ rights, having re-recorded his own songs to retain control of the masters.
“Every artist should own their masters,” he said.
“It’s important to control your own work and earn the royalties you deserve.
“That’s what keeps us going between tours – it lets us write, record, and survive.”
To young artists stepping into today’s turbulent industry, Murray has a clear message.
“Understand the business,” he pleaded.
“The game’s changed so much in the last 20, 25 years.
“Don’t just make music and hand it over. Learn how things work.
“Do it yourself wherever you can, and keep the power in your hands.”
As for Swan Hill, he’s ready to give it everything.
“I’m really looking forward to it. I’ve never been, and it’ll be great to come down and have a good night with you guys,” he said.
Pete Murray hits the Swan Hill Town Hall on Sunday, May 18 at 6.30pm.
Visit the town hall website for ticket details.
