Born on June 29, 1957, Forster grew up in Brisbane, where he formed his first band, The Newtons, with his friend Grant McLennan. Together they would go on to form The Go-Betweens in 1977, a band that would become known for their literate, sophisticated songwriting and Forster’s distinctive vocals and guitar playing. Over the years, The Go-Betweens released several albums, including their breakthrough 1986 album “Liberty Belle and the Black Diamond Express,” which spawned the hit single “Streets of Your Town.”
Following the band’s breakup in 1989, Forster embarked on a solo career. His first solo album, “Danger in the Past,” was released in 1990 and featured guest appearances from former bandmate Grant McLennan, as well as members of The Go-Betweens’ touring band. The album received critical acclaim for its introspective, acoustic-based songs and established Forster as a solo artist in his own right.
Forster continued to release albums throughout the 1990s and 2000s, including “Calling from a Country Phone” (1993), “I Had a New York Girlfriend” (1995), and “The Evangelist” (2008), which was widely regarded as one of his best. His solo work has been praised for its lyrical depth and emotional honesty, as well as the subtle shifts in musical style that have marked his progression as an artist over the years.
In addition to his music career, Forster has also written several books, including “The 10 Rules of Rock and Roll” (2009), a memoir and meditation on the music industry. He has also worked as a music critic and journalist, writing for publications such as The Monthly and The Guardian.
Forster’s influence on the indie rock scene in Australia and beyond cannot be overstated. His work with The Go-Betweens helped to define a generation of Australian musicians, and his solo career has continued to inspire fans and fellow artists around the world. He has been recognized with numerous awards over the years, including induction into the Australian Recording Industry Association Hall of Fame in 2008.
In recent years, Forster has continued to tour and perform, both as a solo artist and with The Go-Betweens. His music remains as relevant and vital as ever, a testament to his enduring talent and commitment to his craft. For fans of indie rock, Robert Forster is a must-listen, a timeless artist whose legacy is sure to endure for years to come.