Molly

Artist is available for interviews

Adrian Payne is one of Australia’s most versatile artists. Across the seventies, eighties and nineties he fronted both rock and country bands, performed as a solo artist, and acted in Jesus Christ Superstar, in which he understudied both the Jesus and Judas parts. Adrian went on to tour nationally with the Tommy Emmanuel Band, support Joan Armatrading at the Sydney Entertainment Centre, and share the stage with international icons Jerry Lee Lewis, Chuck Berry and the Everly Brothers as part of Col Joye’s Legends of Rock show. Along the way, his voice and guitar became a familiar presence on concerts, television, recording sessions and film soundtracks, backing the likes of Slim Dusty, Tom Jones, Marcia Hines, Grace Knight, Jon English, Doug Parkinson and a host of others. While Adrian’s career has spanned many genres, he is no stranger to country music. His involvement in the scene goes back decades, and his ability to interpret stories of place, people and resilience continues to resonate with audiences. Since mid-2023, Adrian has been collaborating with lyricist Bruce Mackay (Mack Country), co-writing a number of country storytelling songs. Adrian’s seasoned artistry and Mackay’s lyric craft — a partnership that builds on his long history while adding fresh chapters to his catalogue. 'Molly' is their latest collaboration. The idea was born while songwriter Bruce Mackay of Mack Country was staying at the Gin Gin Showgrounds in Queensland. Having attended country shows throughout his life, he began reflecting on the men and women who move from town to town making these events possible, and the trials and tribulations of a life constantly on the road. As the story unfolds, we gain an intimate glimpse into that world. Payne’s understated delivery keeps the focus firmly on the story, allowing its emotional weight to land naturally .

Adrian Payne is one of Australia’s most versatile artists. Across the seventies, eighties and nineties he fronted rock and country bands, performed as a solo artist, and appeared in Jesus Christ Superstar, understudying both Jesus and Judas. He toured nationally with the Tommy Emmanuel Band, supported Joan Armatrading at the Sydney Entertainment Centre, and shared the stage with icons including Jerry Lee Lewis, Chuck Berry and the Everly Brothers. A sought-after vocalist and guitarist, Adrian has backed artists such as Slim Dusty, Tom Jones, Marcia Hines, Grace Knight, Jon English and Doug Parkinson across concerts, television, recording sessions and film soundtracks. While his career spans multiple genres, Adrian has a long connection to country music and a natural ability to bring story-driven songs to life. Since mid-2023, he has collaborated with lyricist Bruce Mackay (Mack Country), continuing to build a catalogue of authentic Australian storytelling songs.