Chad Morgan Sheik back in Yamba | Northern Rivers Music | Music Reviews, Concerts and Bands in Northern Rivers

Tim Howard | 2nd July 2009

MORE than 50 years after Australian country music icon Chad Morgan first sang The Sheik from Scrubby Creek, his fans still demand a performance.

“I have to include it and a lot of the other older songs. If I don't, they just demand to hear them,” he said.

Chad and his old mate, country balladeer Gordon Larkin, are teaming up for a show in Yamba next week.

Yamba has fond memories for Chad, who first performed here in 1956 with industry legend Slim Dusty.

“It was a totally different place back then,” he said.

“But it - like the NSW North Coast - has always been a good place for me.”

Chad tours the area often, playing Grafton and Coffs Harbour venues, but has not been to Yamba for a number of years.

“It will be good to go there with Gordon and put on a good show,” Chad said.

Chad's place in country music is assured as a singer and slapstick comedian who has created a gallery of characters that are now part of Australian legend.

He sings about the embattled male, the kiss-and-run lover, the idle boaster, the nagging spouse and whinging wife in his inimitable style.

Dubbed a one-hit-wonder by the music press after the first recording of The Sheik of Scrubby Creek, he has proved them all wrong with a string of records and awards such as the Tamworth Hands of Fame, the Roll of Renown and a Living Legend Award. He also has an Order of Australia Medal.

Gordon Larking represents a real change of pace for country fans. He has performed with the industry's legends since he won a talent quest on Slim Dusty's Touring Show in 1954.

Gordon has a wide range in his repertoire, including Tex Morten yodels, Australian bush ballads and contemporary songs.

He has two audio cassettes as well as three CDs: The Best of Gordon Larkin, Gordon Larkin On and Off and Gordon Larkin Remembers the Pioneers.

Chad Morgan and Gordon Larkin will perform at the Yamba Bowling Club auditorium from 7.30pm on July 10. Entry is free.

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