In this special Garage Edition of The Court of Public Opinion, Jeremy Cordeaux sits down with legendary Australian entertainer Johnny Mac, one of the oldest living pop stars at 94 years of age.

Johnny shares remarkable stories from a lifetime in show business, including performing alongside some of the biggest names in music history — from Johnny Cash and Roy Orbison to Buddy Holly and the Everly Brothers. He reflects on his unexpected rise from Adelaide to international recognition, including the success of his song Pink Champagne and a Room Full of Roses, which charted in the United States.

The conversation explores the golden age of radio, early recording studios, touring in North America, and the intense realities of life as a professional entertainer. Johnny also shares memories of performing for troops in Vietnam, working in television, and the deep satisfaction he found through charity performances.

Now in his nineties, Johnny continues recording music, recently releasing a new song titled “Come What May”, proving that passion for music never fades.

This fascinating interview captures the life, humour, and wisdom of a true Australian show business pioneer.

Topics Covered:

• Introduction of legendary entertainer Johnny Mac

• Johnny Mac’s age and long career in entertainment

• Early show business experiences

• Performing with major music legends

• Meeting artists such as Johnny Cash, Roy Orbison and Buddy Holly

• Early radio career and the importance of radio promotion

• Recording the hit song Pink Champagne and a Room Full of Roses

• The Seekers backing Johnny Mac early in their career

• Chart success in America

• Touring and performing in Canada and the United States

• The realities of life in show business

• Drug use and pressure within the entertainment industry

• Charity performances and touring Vietnam for troops

• Visiting children’s hospitals and performing for sick children

• Downsides of fame and lack of privacy

• Owning Elvis Presley’s Cadillac

• Selling pieces of Elvis memorabilia for charity

• Receiving the Dusty Boots Award

• Johnny Mac’s latest song “Come What May”

• Modern music streaming versus physical records