Molly

About This Song

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 .

The Story Behind This Song

Molly is a story-driven Australian country song set on the travelling show circuit that moves from town to town across regional Australia. The song offers a glimpse into a world most people only see from the outside. It follows a search for, and encounter with, Molly, a woman who lives her life among the rides, crews and country towns that make up show life. As a stranger wanders a little too close, the moment reveals the unspoken rules of a tight-knit community that looks after its own. With vivid imagery and an understated delivery, Molly captures both the character and the quiet tension of life behind the showground lights.

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