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Ian Richard Moss (born 20 March 1955) is an Australian rock musician from Alice Springs. He is the founding mainstay guitarist and occasional singer of Cold Chisel. In that group's initial eleven year phase from 1973 to 1984, Moss was recorded on all five studio albums, three of which reached number one on the national Kent Music Report Albums Chart. In August 1989 he released his debut solo album, Matchbook, which peaked at number one on the ARIA Albums Chart. It was preceded by his debut single, "Tucker's Daughter", which reached number two on the related ARIA Singles Chart in March. The track was co-written by Moss with Don Walker, also from Cold Chisel. Moss had another top ten hit with "Telephone Booth" in June 1989.

At the ARIA Music Awards of 1990 Moss won five categories: Album of the Year, Best Male Artist, Breakthrough Artist – Album, Single of the Year and Breakthrough Artist – Single. Since then his solo music career has been more low-key, his other top 50 albums are Worlds Away (November 1991), Let's All Get Together (July 2007) and Soul on West 53rd (November 2009). In 1993 Cold Chisel, with Moss as a member, were inducted into the ARIA Hall of Fame. Moss has participated with periodic Cold Chisel reunion tours or new studio albums in 1998, 2003 and from 2009 to 2012 (as from August 2013).

Early life

[edit]

Ian Richard Moss was born on 20 March 1955 in Alice Springs, Northern Territory, to Geoffery Moss (18 April 1911 – 1989) and Lorna (née Robinson) (born ca. 1922).[A] During World War II Geoffery survived the 1942 bombing of Darwin, he enlisted in the army and later worked for the Allied Works Council in Alice Springs.[1][2] Lorna was a fellow employee at Allied Works Council when they married in September 1945.[1][3]

Moss has an older brother, Peter Geoffrey Moss (born 8 October 1948),[4][5] an older sister, Penny (born 30 July 1951), and a younger brother, Andrew (born July 13 1961).[4][6][7] When Moss was four years old he performed for his family and friends and at nine, sang "The Battle of New Orleans" at a school concert.[8][9] He later recalled "I was always keen on music and singing. I used to do little vocal concerts for my parents".[9] Moss initially took piano lessons but switched to guitar at age 11:[10] "My older sister was learning classical piano and my older brother was a good rhythm strummer and right into Bob Dylan. I started off with classical piano aged about 7 or 8, but unfortunately wasn't into it enough".[8]

In 1969 he joined a local band, Seen, which included drummer Rod Martin and two brothers, Robert and John Fortunaso.[11] Moss played rhythm guitar by plugging an acoustic guitar into the bass player's amplifier. Seen played at local centres and organised their own dances. Moss sang a couple of songs with the group and a year later, he bought an electric guitar to replace his acoustic. Moss recalled, "I was with them for about a year and by that time I was starting to get my own band happening".[4]

The following year he formed Hot Ice with Roger Harris – guitar, David Michel – drums, Wayne Sanderson – Bass and Paul Wiles – keyboards.[11] The group debuted in front of the whole school at the Alice Springs High School regular Friday assembly which took place in the Alice Springs Youth Centre with cover versions of Creedence Clearwater Revival's "Proud Mary" and "Who'll Stop the Rain".[4] Thereafter they regularly played at the Youth Centre Saturday night dances.[4] In 1972, Moss relocated to Adelaide – where his older siblings had already moved. Moss had failed a year of high school and decided to repeat at Marion High School. In 1973 he started an Electronics course at Kilkenny Technical College but "lasted one term there ... totally daydreaming the whole time", he left and worked in various factory jobs.[7]

Career

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1973–1984: Cold Chisel

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Main article: Cold Chisel

In September 1973, Moss, on guitar and lead vocals, formed a rock group, Orange, in Adelaide with Don Walker, a songwriter and organist, and Leszek Kaczmarek on bass guitar.[12][13][14] Within months the line-up included Steve Prestwich on drums and Jimmy Barnes on lead vocals, and they were renamed, Cold Chisel.[9][12][13][14] The group's early line-up was volatile with Barnes, Prestwich and Walker all leaving and returning at various times.[13][14] In 1975 Kaczmarek was replaced on bass guitar by Phil Small.[12][13][14]

Moss's main role was as lead guitarist, although he would frequently take over lead vocals when Barnes was out of the band.[13][14][15] After periods spent in Adelaide, Armidale and Melbourne, Cold Chisel eventually settled in Sydney in mid-1977 and signed a recording contract with WEA late that year.[13][14] Early the following year they recorded their self-titled debut album, which appeared in April.[12][13][14] Moss supplied lead vocals for two tracks, "One Long Day" and "Rosaline".[16]

Moss on the Cold Chisel Last Stand Tour, 1983

Moss's vocals feature on some of the band's best known songs, including the singles "My Baby" (August 1980), "When the War Is Over" (1982), and "Saturday Night" (March 1984) and on Circus Animals (March 1982) album track, "Bow River".[17] Moss wrote "Bow River"[18] about a cattle station in the Kimberley region of Western Australia where his brother, Peter, had once worked; it has since become Moss's signature tune.[19] It was also the B-side of "Forever Now", which was released in the same month as the album.

Moss sang lead on the group's version of "Georgia On My Mind" which became a staple of their live shows, although their only recording is on the 1984 live album, Barking Spiders Live: 1983. Their fifth studio album, Twentieth Century, was issued in April 1984 with two tracks, "Saturday Night" and "Janelle", featuring Moss on lead vocals.[13] However the group had disbanded as Barnes was keen to begin his solo career.[13][14]

During Cold Chisel's first phase, Moss gained status as a songwriter, contributing "Never Before"[20] for East (June 1980), the track was the first one aired by national radio station Triple J when it switched from AM to FM in 1980. Another Moss-written track is "No Good for You" on Circus Animals.[21] He also worked as a session musician for other artists,[11] including playing a guitar solo on the track "Skin" from the album Icehouse (October 1980) by Sydney new wave band Flowers and an appearance on Richard Clapton's The Great Escape (March 1982),[11] which also featured Barnes.

1985–1997: Solo career success

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After Cold Chisel disbanded, Ian Moss took a break from the music industry before launching his solo career in October 1986.[17] His first backing band consisted of Andy Cowan on keyboards (ex-Madder Lake, Ayers Rock, Kevin Borich Express), Joe Imbroll on bass guitar (ex-Goanna) and John Watson on drums (ex-Kevin Borich Express, Australian Crawl).[17] By April the following year the line-up was Watson, Joe Creighton on bass guitar (ex-Melissa, Billy T) and Peter Walker on guitar and synthesiser (ex-Bakery)[17] – Walker had also produced Cold Chisel's debut album in 1978.[22]

During 1988 Moss worked in Los Angeles for nine months preparing material for his debut album, Matchbook.[17] In November 1988, Moss released his debut single, "Tucker's Daughter" which peaked at number two on the ARIA Singles Chart and number six on the New Zealand Singles Chart.[23]

Moss's second single, "Telephone Booth", was issued in June-1989 and reached number seven on the ARIA Singles Chart,[24] and top 30 in New Zealand.[23] Matchbook, followed in August, which reached number one on the ARIA Albums Chart, it remained at the peak spot for three weeks[17][24] and sold more than 200,000 copies.[25] In New Zealand it reached the top 20 on the albums chart.[23] Matchbook was produced by Moss and Lord-Alge; it was dedicated "in loving memory of Geoff Moss 1911–1989".[26] Australian musicologist, Ian McFarlane, found the album displayed Moss's "exemplary, controlled guitar technique, but also highlighted his soulful voice ... [he] handled all lead vocals with considerable style and authority".[17]

Two further singles, "Out of the Fire" and "Mr. Rain" were released from the album and both charted on the Australian top 100.[17][24][27] At the ARIA Music Awards of 1990 Moss won five categories Album of the Year, Best Male Artist and Breakthrough Artist – Album for Matchbook; and Single of the Year and Breakthrough Artist – Single for "Tucker's Daughter".[17][28][29] His touring band in support of Matchbook consisted of Ian Belton on bass guitar (ex-QED), Guy Le Claire on rhythm guitar(Mar-Sept 1989)(ex-Eurogliders), Randy Bulpin on rhythm guitar (ex-Mondo Rock), Danny D'Costa on keyboards, Steve Fearnley on drums and Mark Williams and Mary Azzopardi on backing vocals.[17]

Moss at the ARIA Hall of Fame in Melbourne in July 2008.
At the ARIA Music Awards of 1990 Moss won five categories Album of the Year, Best Male Artist and Breakthrough Artist – Album for Matchbook; and Single of the Year and Breakthrough Artist – Single for "Tucker's Daughter".[17][28][29] In 1993 Cold Chisel, with Moss as a member, were inducted into the Hall of Fame.[30][31]

In October 1991 Moss released his second album, Worlds Away, which featured "songs largely co-written with Don Walker in the soul/R&B vein".[17] It reached the top 50 on both the ARIA and New Zealand charts.[24][23] The album provided three singles, "Slip Away" (May), "She's a Star" (September) and "Never Give Up" (November);[17] both "Slip Away" and "She's a Star" reached the ARIA Top 100.[32]

Also that year Moss played in Don Walker's band Catfish, contributing guitar to their album, Ruby. Subsequently, he made guest appearances on albums by The Black Sorrows' Better Times (1992) on a track called "Ain't Love the Strangest Thing", Richard Clapton's Distant Thunder (1993), on Barnes' solo album, Heat (1993),[11] the first time he had worked with Barnes in ten years. In June 1994 he provided lead guitar on the title track of Don Walker's solo album, We're All Gunna Die (1995).[11][33] In 1993 Cold Chisel, with Moss as a member, were inducted into the ARIA Hall of Fame.[30][31]

Moss's third solo album, Petrolhead, was released in August 1996, which was produced by Don Walker for TWA Records.[11][17] For this album Moss used Walker on keyboards with Paul DeMarco on drums (ex-Rose Tattoo), the late Ian Rilen on bass guitar (from Rose Tattoo & X), and Trent Williamson on harmonica.[17] McFarlane declared it was "his best-ever album ... [by] a down'n'dirty blues-rock outfit ... with gritty, hard-edged tracks ... [and] finely honed guitar work".[17] Two singles were issued, "All Alone on a Rock" and "Poor Boy", but neither charted.[17] It was re-released the following year as Ian Moss Box Set with an additional live CD, Ian Moss Live, the live disc was issued separately in 1998.[11][17] Those live tracks had been recorded during 1996 to 1997 on his national tour supporting Petrolhead, with Rilen replaced by Paul Wheeler on bass guitar mid-tour.[11][17][34]

1997–2004: Cold Chisel reunion

[edit]

From October 1997 to June 1998 Cold Chisel reunited to record a new studio album, The Last Wave of Summer (October 1998), and subsequently toured.[13] In May 2003, another Cold Chisel tour, Ringside, resulted in a 2× CD live album of the same name in November.

2005–present: Solo career continued

[edit]

In 2005 Moss released his fourth studio album, Six Strings on Liberation Music.[11][35] it was an acoustic album and included material from his time with Cold Chisel, his solo releases and cover versions of Jimi Hendrix and Creedence Clearwater Revival tracks.[36] To support the release Moss undertook an extensive joint tour of Australia co-headlining with Jon Stevens (ex-Noiseworks, INXS).

Moss's next album, Let's All Get Together, was released in July 2007 on his own label, Mosstrooper (distributed by Liberation).[37] It contained acoustic cover versions of Cold Chisel tracks and material written by Moss and/or his former band mates Walker, Prestwich and Small.[38][39] The album reached the top 50 on the ARIA Albums Chart in October.[24] From February to April 2008 Moss appeared on the third series of Australian TV celebrity singing contest, It Takes Two, where he was partnered by actress, Virginia Gay – they finished in the top three.[40][41]

Moss travelled to New York in August 2008 to record his next album, Soul on West 53rd,[42] which is a collection of mainly soul songs from the 1960s and 1970s. It was produced by Danny Korthmar,[43] and featured Steve Jordan, Neil Jason, Leon Pendarvis and Hugh McCracken.[44][45] It was released in October 2009 and peaked in the top 40 in Australia.[24] Amazon.com editorial reviewer declared that Moss provides an "unforgettable sound – not only as a telling soloist on guitar but especially with his silken voice, ringing with clarity and resonating with pure soul".[43] Antonios Sarhanis at Anagrammatically Correct felt it was a "good collection of covers, but why bother when the better originals are so freely available?".[46]

In December 2009 Cold Chisel reconvened for a gig at Stadium Australia.[47][48] In October 2010 Cold Chisel appeared at the Deni ute muster.[49] Alongside their old work they premiered new material and announced they were working on another studio album.[50] Recording of Cold Chisel's album, No Plans, was disrupted when Steven Prestwich was diagnosed with a brain tumour and died on 16 January 2011, aged 56.[51][52] In October the group replaced Prestwich with former Divinyls drummer, Charley Drayton,[53] and the album was issued in April 2012.[51] Aside from lead guitar and backing vocals, Moss provided lead vocals on two tracks, "Too Late" and "Summer Moon".[54] Cold Chisel supported the release with a national tour and then, in June, with performances in London.[9][55]

In 2012 he made a guest appearance on the TV soap opera, Neighbours, playing a gig at Charlie's Bar. The episode was broadcast in the United Kingdom in October. In May that year Australian Guitar magazine listed Moss at number-three on their Definitive Top Ten Australian Guitarists of All Time.[56] In January 2013 Moss, as a solo artist, joined the Red Hot Summer Tour, headlining that tour was Barnes.[9] During June Cold Chisel announced they were in a recording studio.[55] Moss followed with his own Australian tour starting in July.[57]

In March 2018, Moss released Ian Moss, his first solo album of all original material in 22 years.[58] The album peaked at number 11 on the ARIA Charts.[24]

He performed at the 2021 NRL Grand Final, singing "Flame Trees" alongside Kate Miller-Heidke, before performing his solo hit "Tucker's Daughter".

In July 2023, Moss released his eighth studio album Rivers Run Dry. The album will be supported by a national tour commencing in August 2023.[59]

Personal life

[edit]

Ian Moss was in a de facto relationship with Australian actress Megan Williams[60] for eleven years until they split up in the 1990s.[61] Williams supplied backing vocals on Cold Chisel's "Flame Trees" (August 1984).[62] Williams died on 17 April 2000 of breast cancer, aged 43.[61]

Moss and his partner, Margeaux Rolleston, have a son, Julian Moss – Six Strings has an instrumental track, "Song for Julian".

Discography

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Main article: Ian Moss discography

Albums

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See also

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Awards and nominations

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APRA Awards

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The APRA Awards are held in Australia and New Zealand by the Australasian Performing Right Association to recognise songwriting skills, sales, and airplay performance by its members annually.[63]

Year Nominee / work Award Result Ref.
2024 "Nullarbor Plain" (Moss and Troy Cassar-Daley) Most Performed Rock Work Nominated [64]

ARIA Music Awards

[edit]

The ARIA Music Awards is an annual awards ceremony that recognises excellence, innovation, and achievement across all genres of Australian music. They commenced in 1987. Ian Moss has won five awards.

Year Nominee / work Award Result Ref.
1990 Matchbook Album of the Year Won [65]
Best Male Artist Won
Breakthrough Artist - Album Won
"Tucker's Daughter" Breakthrough Artist - Single Won
Single of the Year Nominated
Song of the Year Won
1993 himself (as part of Cold Chisel) ARIA Hall of Fame inducted

CMA Awards

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The Country Music Awards of Australia is an annual awards night held in January during the Tamworth Country Music Festival, celebrating recording excellence in the Australian country music industry.

Year Nominee / work Award Result (wins only)
2022[66] "South" (with Troy Cassar-Daley) Vocal Collaboration of the Year. Won

Notes

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References

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[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Ian Moss

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
Ian Moss (born 20 March 1955) is an Australian rock musician from , best known as the founding mainstay guitarist and occasional singer of the iconic band . Born and raised in , , Moss began playing guitar in local teenage bands before moving to in the early 1970s after struggling in high school. There, he responded to an advertisement and joined what would become Cold Chisel in 1973, co-founding the group with members including Jimmy Barnes and Don Walker, and contributing to its raw, pub-rock sound that defined Australian music in the late 1970s and early 1980s. Cold Chisel achieved massive success with albums like East (1980) and Circus Animals (), selling millions and earning Moss acclaim as one of Australia's premier guitarists for his blues-inflected solos and soulful voice on tracks such as "." Following the band's 1983 breakup, Moss pursued a solo career, debuting with the multi-platinum album in 1989, which reached number one on the and won five ARIA Awards, including Album of the Year and Best Male Artist. Over the decades, he has released eight studio albums, with his latest, Rivers Run Dry, arriving in 2023, alongside live recordings like Live at the Enmore (2024), Live at Anita's (2025), and ongoing tours, including a sold-out national headline tour in 2025 and reunions with , such as the 50th anniversary "The Big Five-0" tour (2024–2025). Moss's contributions to Australian rock have been widely recognized, including being voted Australia's greatest guitarist in a poll by his peers.

Early life

Childhood in Alice Springs

Ian Richard Moss was born on 20 March 1955 in , , . He grew up in the remote town as the third of four children to parents Geoffrey and Lorna Moss, both of whom worked for the local council. His father, Geoffrey, had survived the Japanese during in 1942, after which he enlisted in the army and later contributed to infrastructure projects in the region through the Allied Works Council. Moss had an older brother, and the family lived in a modest environment typical of the arid, isolated Central Australian landscape. From an early age, Moss showed a keen interest in music, influenced by the sounds around him in . He was exposed to local musicians and performances in the community, which sparked his passion starting around age five. Initially, he took lessons, but at age 11, he switched to guitar, marking the beginning of his lifelong dedication to the instrument. The outback setting, with its limited options, meant radio broadcasts played a significant role in his early listening experiences, introducing him to a variety of sounds from afar. Moss's childhood musical interests centered on rock and genres, drawn from these radio airings and occasional live encounters with traveling or local performers. These early exposures laid the groundwork for his developing style, emphasizing guitar-driven expression amid the sparse cultural resources of the region. This foundation in ' unique outback milieu shaped his initial self-taught approach before he later pursued more formal musical opportunities elsewhere.

Move to Adelaide and musical beginnings

At the age of 17 in 1972, Ian Moss relocated from to after failing a high school year, intending initially to repeat it but ultimately committing to a full-time pursuit of music. His older siblings had already moved south, providing a familial anchor in the city. Upon arrival, Moss dove into Adelaide's emerging pub rock scene, a dynamic environment fueled by local venues and working-class audiences in the early 1970s. He quickly integrated as a , securing spots in informal lineups and performing covers of rock staples at neighborhood pubs, which allowed him to build practical experience amid the city's tight-knit music community. Moss honed his guitar skills primarily through self-teaching and repetitive live gigs, drawing inspiration from instrumentalists like of for clean, melodic phrasing and for expressive, effects-driven solos. These early performances emphasized his growing proficiency on , often involving models, as he adapted techniques to the raw energy of pub settings. No formal recordings from this pre-professional phase have been widely documented, but the gigs served as crucial rehearsals for his vocal and instrumental roles.

Career

Cold Chisel (1973–1984)

Ian Moss joined Cold Chisel in September 1973 in Adelaide, responding to a newspaper advertisement for a guitarist placed by keyboardist Don Walker, who was assembling a band initially named Orange. As the lead guitarist and occasional lead vocalist, Moss became a foundational member alongside Walker, drummer Steve Prestwich, bassist Les Kaczmarek (later replaced by Phil Small), and vocalist Jimmy Barnes (who joined in 1974). The group honed their hard-rock covers and original material through suburban pub gigs in Adelaide before relocating to Sydney in 1976, where they built a reputation in the pub rock scene with high-energy performances that blended blues, rock, and Walker-penned narratives of Australian life. Moss's guitar work and vocals were integral to 's five studio albums during this period, driving their evolution from underground favorites to national icons. On the debut (1978), his blues-inflected solo in ""—a Walker composition evoking veterans—helped define the band's raw, anthemic sound, while his first lead vocal on "One Long Day" featured a virtuosic, shredding guitar outro. (1979) showcased his whammy-bar-driven licks on "The Door," adding cosmic intensity to the track's brooding atmosphere. The breakthrough (1980) elevated the band to Australia's top act, with Moss delivering gritty, pentatonic bends on the title track and unison lines on "Standing on the Outside," contributing to the album's chart-topping success and themes of urban alienation. Circus Animals (1982), their highest-selling Australian album at the time, highlighted Moss's songwriting and performance on "," where he penned the lyrics, sang lead, and unleashed a blistering 40-second solo blending rapid slurs and blues-rock bends; his technically precise runs also shone on "Forever Now." The final studio release, (1984)—often paired with live recordings from their farewell shows—featured Moss's emotive guitar lines on "," a poignant of small-town longing that underscored the band's maturing . Cold Chisel's ascent included relentless Australian tours that packed pubs and festivals, cementing their status as pub rock legends with sold-out shows drawing thousands, such as the 1982 Music Bowl concert in . International efforts, including European tours in 1981 and a 1983 German stint supporting acts like , exposed stylistic clashes with overseas audiences but honed their resilience amid grueling schedules. By 1984, mounting internal tensions—fueled by clashing personalities, particularly between Barnes and , and the exhaustion of constant touring—led to the band's breakup after a farewell national tour, with the final show at the on December 13, 1983, marking the end of their initial era.

Solo career establishment (1985–1996)

Following the disbandment of in 1983, Ian Moss began developing his solo career, spending several years writing and recording material before his official debut. His first solo single, "Tucker's Daughter," a duet with former bandmate , was released in November 1988 and became a major hit, peaking at number 2 on the Singles Chart in early 1989 and earning certification in for sales exceeding 70,000 copies. This success paved the way for Moss's debut solo album, Matchbook, released in August 1989 through Mushroom Records. Produced by Moss alongside American engineer Chris Lord-Alge, the album featured a polished rock sound with contributions from Cold Chisel drummer Steve Prestwich and keyboardist Don Walker on select tracks, and it debuted at number 1 on the ARIA Albums Chart, remaining in the top 10 for 14 weeks while shipping over 200,000 copies—equivalent to triple platinum status in Australia. Key singles from the album included "Telephone Booth," co-written by Moss and Walker, which reached number 7 on the ARIA Singles Chart and stayed in the top 20 for 10 weeks, showcasing Moss's songwriting prowess and his signature guitar-driven melodies reminiscent of his band era. At the 1990 ARIA Music Awards, Matchbook propelled Moss to win five honors, including Album of the Year, Best Male Artist, Breakthrough Artist – Album, Best Cover Art, and Engineering for a non-classical work, marking a triumphant establishment of his independent artistry. The momentum from led to extensive touring, including a national Australian itinerary in late and international dates in during 1990, where Moss performed to enthusiastic audiences in and , building a growing overseas following. His second album, Worlds Away, arrived in October 1991, also on , and was co-produced by Moss with Peter Walker, emphasizing a more introspective blend of rock and elements. The record peaked at number 41 on the Albums Chart and entered the top 50 in , with standout tracks like "Only Love" highlighting Moss's evolving vocal and guitar phrasing, though it achieved more modest commercial success compared to its predecessor. Supporting tours followed in and , including stops in , , and in 1993, further solidifying his live reputation. By the mid-1990s, Moss shifted toward a rawer sound for his third solo effort, Petrolhead, released in August via TWA Records. Produced by Don Walker and recorded in a near-live fashion to capture an unpolished blues-rock edge, the album featured Moss on lead guitar and vocals, with Walker contributing keyboards and songwriting on several tracks, including the poignant "All Alone on a Rock." While it did not chart as highly as earlier releases, Petrolhead received critical praise for its authenticity and was supported by a national Australian tour in –1997, where live recordings from these shows later appeared on compilations, underscoring Moss's commitment to his instrumental roots during this foundational solo phase.

Reunions and mid-career (1997–2010)

In 1998, Cold Chisel reunited after a 14-year hiatus to record their sixth studio album, The Last Wave of Summer, which was released in October and debuted at number one on the Australian ARIA Albums Chart. The album, featuring new material written primarily by Don Walker with Ian Moss contributing guitar and backing vocals on select tracks, captured the band's signature pub rock energy while reflecting on themes of aging and reflection. This reunion effort was supported by an extensive national tour that drew massive crowds to arenas across Australia, reaffirming Cold Chisel's enduring popularity and providing Moss a platform to showcase his intricate guitar solos alongside bandmates Jimmy Barnes, Phil Small, and Charley Drayton on drums. Throughout the 2000s, Moss balanced his Cold Chisel legacy with a series of introspective solo releases, emphasizing acoustic arrangements and personal songwriting. His 2005 album Six Strings, released on Liberation Music, marked a shift to unplugged performances, including acoustic renditions of earlier hits like "Telephone Booth" and covers such as Creedence Clearwater Revival's "Green River," highlighting Moss's fingerpicking technique and bluesy phrasing. This was followed in 2007 by Let's All Get Together, another acoustic collection that incorporated original compositions alongside reinterpretations of Cold Chisel classics like "Flame Trees," produced with input from longtime collaborator Don Walker to blend folk-rock intimacy with Moss's soulful delivery. These works, often performed live in smaller venues, allowed Moss to explore mature themes of relationships and resilience without the high-energy demands of full-band rock. Moss's 2009 release, Soul on West 53rd, represented a bold evolution, featuring covers of soul standards by artists including , , and , recorded in New York and produced by renowned session musician . The album fused Moss's rock guitar roots with jazz-inflected arrangements and horn sections, peaking at number 40 on the ARIA Albums Chart and earning praise for revitalizing classic tracks like "I've Got to Use My Imagination" through Moss's emotive vocals and subtle improvisations. During this era, Moss also engaged in select collaborations, including guest guitar work on projects tied to Don Walker, such as contributions to Walker's solo endeavors that echoed their shared history. By late 2010, Moss was involved in preliminary discussions for 's impending full reunion, navigating the band's grief over drummer Steve Prestwich's 2006 passing to plan a major 2011 tour and live album.

Later career and recent work (2011–present)

In 2011, embarked on the Light the Nitro tour to mark their 40th anniversary, performing 24 shows across and two in from October to December, with Ian Moss contributing on guitar and vocals. The band followed this with additional reunion performances through 2013, including a live recording at Sydney's in April 2012, released as The Live Tapes Vol. 1. Moss's role in these events highlighted his enduring presence in the group's high-energy sets, blending classic tracks with renewed vigor. The band returned for their 50th anniversary celebration with The Big Five-0 tour, announced in May 2024 and commencing on October 5 in , . Spanning late 2024 into early 2025, the sold-out 17-date run across and drew over 250,000 fans, featuring Moss alongside , Don Walker, and on staples like "" and "." A live album and documentary capturing the tour's highlights were released in August 2025, underscoring the milestone's cultural impact. Moss continued his solo endeavors with the self-titled album Ian Moss, released on March 2, 2018, via Liberation Music—his first collection of original material in 22 years and first studio effort in nine. This was followed by Rivers Run Dry, his eighth studio album, issued on July 21, 2023, through Mosstrooper Records, featuring 12 tracks that spanned rock, blues, and pop influences, including a duet with his son Julian Moss on "Such a Beautiful Thing." The album's lead single, the title track, was released in April 2023, and Moss promoted it with live performances, including a debut TV appearance alongside Julian in August 2023. In July 2024, Moss made rare appearances with his band, headlining Glasgow's on July 10 and London's Bush Hall on July 12, delivering sets drawn from his catalog and solo work. Returning to , he announced the One Guitar One Night Only tour in November 2024, a trio-led acoustic outing scheduled for May 2025 across major venues, including multiple nights in , , , and Perth; additional dates were added in 2025 due to demand. Complementing this, Moss's live album Live at Anita's, recorded at Anita's Theatre in , was released on May 2, 2025, via Mosstrooper Records, capturing 17 tracks from his extensive repertoire on double vinyl, CD, and digital formats. In December 2025, Moss performed two headline shows in , , at The Hollywood Avondale on December 19 and 20.

Personal life

Family and relationships

Ian Moss has largely kept his personal life out of the public eye, prioritizing privacy while nurturing close family ties. In the 1980s, Moss entered a long-term relationship with Australian actress Megan Williams, which lasted more than a decade before their separation in the . Williams died of on 17 April 2000, aged 43. Since the early 2000s, Moss has been in a committed relationship with jazz singer Margeaux Rolleston, whom he has referred to as his wife; the couple has a son, Julian, born around 2004. The family resides in the coastal suburb of Thirroul, south of , where Moss balances his career with family responsibilities. Moss, Rolleston, and Julian have shared family travels, including a memorable 2012 trip to Europe that included stays in the French Alps and Provence, fostering strong familial bonds through shared experiences.

Later years and interests

In his later years, Ian Moss has reflected on the importance of good health and mobility, expressing gratitude for remaining active well into his 70s after turning 70 on 20 March 2025. Moss maintains a keen interest in jazz, naming Duke Ellington and Wes Montgomery among his favorite artists during a 2025 interview. He has embraced a quieter life in the coastal suburb of Thirroul, south of , where he values the serene beaches and natural surroundings as a respite from his performing career.

Musical style and influences

Guitar technique and vocals

Ian Moss is renowned for his blues-infused guitar technique, characterized by melodic phrasing and understated solos that prioritize emotional depth over flashy displays. His playing often features clean tones achieved through low-output pickups and amp-driven sounds, allowing for clarity and nuance in his note selection. Moss favors fewer notes with strategic gaps, emphasizing "phrasing is king" to serve the song's narrative, as he has described in interviews. This approach draws on traditions, incorporating elements like bends, rapid scale runs, and occasional whammy bar effects for expressive flair. Central to Moss's sound is his preference for Fender Stratocasters, particularly a 1960 model he acquired in 1977, which he has modified over the years for enhanced playability. The guitar's brighter, twangy response suits his bluesy style, while custom builds like his 1989 Greg Fryer —with a wider and flatter —facilitate sustained bends and comfortable handling during extended performances. He occasionally employs Telecaster-inspired designs, such as slab-sided Strats, to add a sharper edge to his tone without sacrificing the Strat's versatility. These choices reflect his commitment to reliable, responsive instruments that support both rhythmic work and soloing. Moss's vocal style complements his guitar work with a soulful, smooth delivery that conveys warmth and introspection. In , he took occasional leads, such as on "Choir Girl," where his clear, resonant provided a melodic to the band's raw energy. His solo career elevated this aspect, as heard in hits like "Tucker's Daughter," where his silken voice rings with soulful clarity and emotional resonance. Moss identifies as a soul singer, integrating influences like to blend pop-rock structures with heartfelt phrasing. Over time, Moss's style evolved from the high-energy pub rock intensity of his days—marked by spontaneous, edge-of-your-seat solos—to a more mature, refined approach in his solo albums. Later works incorporate jazz-infused phrasing, inspired by figures like , with greater emphasis on subtle dynamics and improvisational freedom. In live settings, he thrives on this spontaneity, often "getting lost" in solos to capture the moment's emotion, likening it to "skating on the edge" while maintaining technical precision. Examples from his debut album , such as the blistering solo in "," illustrate this progression toward controlled yet vibrant expression.

Key influences

Ian Moss's primary guitar influences were of and , whose Stratocaster-based rock playing shaped his own approach to the instrument. In a 2024 interview, Moss stated, "For me, though, Blackmore and Hendrix were the main influence. They both play Strats," crediting them for inspiring his purchase of a in 1977. His early exposure to blues and soul came from local Alice Springs musician Dave Liillicut, who played boogie-woogie piano and introduced Moss to around age five, fostering a foundational appreciation for these genres from the . Growing up in during the and , Moss was immersed in a progressive live music scene that included country and emerging rock elements, further broadening his inspirations through local performers and the absence of commercial radio, where the ABC provided key external sounds. The pub rock culture of late- , with bands playing nightly in every venue, profoundly influenced Moss and Cold Chisel's raw, energetic style. Within Cold Chisel, keyboardist and principal songwriter Don Walker significantly impacted Moss's songwriting development through close collaboration, including co-writing tracks like "All Alone on a Rock" for Moss's 1989 album Matchbook. Moss has credited Walker's perfectionist approach and innovative ideas for expanding his creative horizons during the band's formative years in Adelaide. In later years, Moss explored jazz influences, naming as a figure of admiration in a 2025 interview, reflecting a shift toward more sophisticated harmonic elements in his work during the . His partner, jazz singer Margeaux Rolleston, has likely contributed to this evolution, exposing him to jazz performance and vocal styles.

Discography

Solo studio albums

Ian Moss's solo studio albums span over three decades, showcasing his evolution from rock and blues roots to more experimental and introspective sounds. His debut effort, Matchbook, marked a commercial triumph, while subsequent releases explored varied styles, including rock, blues, jazz fusion, acoustic arrangements, and mature reflections on life. These works highlight Moss's guitar prowess and vocal depth, often co-written with collaborators like Don Walker from Cold Chisel. Matchbook, released in August 1989 by , debuted at number 1 on the Albums Chart and held a position in the top 10 for 14 weeks. The album was certified triple in , signifying sales in excess of 210,000 units. Featuring themes of and reflection, it includes standout tracks like "Telephone Booth" and "Tucker's Daughter," blending blues-rock with soulful ballads that established Moss as a solo force. Moss's second album, Worlds Away, arrived in October 1991 via Mushroom Records and peaked at number 42 on the ARIA Albums Chart. Rock-oriented with a mix of energetic tracks and poignant ballads, it demonstrated Moss's versatility, incorporating influences from his Cold Chisel days into a more personal solo narrative. In August 1996, Moss released Petrolhead through TWA Records, produced by Don Walker. The album peaked at number 21 on the ARIA Albums Chart and introduced an edgier, raw blues sound, recorded live in the studio to capture an urgent, gritty energy distinct from his earlier polished productions. Moss returned to acoustic sounds with Six Strings in May 2005 on Liberation Blue, his first all-acoustic album featuring reinterpreted classics and originals like "Song for Julian." Certified by in 2015 for sales of 35,000 units, it highlighted his guitar technique in intimate settings. Let's All Get Together, released in July 2007 by Bloodlines, peaked at number 49 on the Albums Chart. This second acoustic effort included stripped-back versions of solo and tracks, emphasizing Moss's songwriting and vocal maturity. After a hiatus, Moss ventured into -rock fusion with Soul on West 53rd in October 2009, released by Liberation Music. The album peaked at number 40 on the Albums Chart and explored improvisational elements and sophisticated arrangements, reflecting Moss's interest in blending rock with influences during a period of artistic experimentation. Returning to original material in March 2018 with his self-titled album Ian Moss on Liberation Music, the release emphasized an acoustic focus, stripping back to intimate guitar-driven songs that highlighted Moss's songwriting maturity. It peaked at number 11 on the Albums Chart, his strongest charting solo album since 1996. The 2023 album Rivers Run Dry, released on July 21 via Mosstrooper Records and co-produced with Brent Clark, peaked at number 18 on the ARIA Albums Chart. Featuring mature songwriting centered on life's journeys, it was praised for its emotional depth and Moss's refined guitar work, solidifying his enduring relevance in Australian music.

Live albums and compilations

Moss's first live recording, Ian Moss Live, was released in 1998 by TWA Records as a standalone CD following its inclusion in the 1997 Ian Moss Box Set reissue of his debut album Matchbook. The album captures performances from his solo tours, showcasing his guitar work and vocals on tracks like "All Alone on a Rock" and "Addicted to You," emphasizing his transition from Cold Chisel's ensemble sound to a more intimate solo presentation. In 2020, Moss issued Live through his own Mosstrooper label, a double CD and digital release recorded during his 2018 Australian tour at venues including Canberra's The Playhouse. The 16-track set features reinterpreted solo material such as "Out of the Fire" and "Such a Beautiful Thing," alongside classics like "Never Before," highlighting his enduring stage presence and blues-inflected guitar solos. A vinyl edition followed in April 2024. Moss continued documenting his concert performances with Live at the Enmore in 2024, a limited-edition double LP on Universal Music capturing a show at Sydney's . This release underscores his ongoing solo touring commitment, blending high-energy renditions of career-spanning hits with acoustic elements. Live at Anita's, released on May 2, 2025, on as a double LP, features recordings from a performance at Anita's Theatre in , further extending Moss's catalog of live captures. On the compilations front, the 2019 Matchbook 30th Anniversary Edition serves as a retrospective, pairing the original 1989 album with a bonus disc of live recordings from the Hordern Pavilion, including "When You Dance" and "Tucker's Daughter." Released by Warner Music Australia, it celebrates Moss's solo breakthrough while incorporating dynamic live versions that reflect his evolution as a performer. Moss has also contributed guitar and vocals to various collaborative live projects, such as Cold Chisel's 1992 The Last Stand soundtrack, where his solos enhance the band's farewell concert energy.

Singles

Ian Moss's solo singles career is marked by a blend of rock, blues, and soul influences, often co-written with longtime collaborator Don Walker, and they have played a pivotal role in establishing his post-Cold Chisel identity. His debut single, "Tucker's Daughter", released in November 1988 as a duet with Jimmy Barnes, became one of Australia's biggest hits of the era, peaking at number 2 on the ARIA Singles Chart and earning platinum certification for over 70,000 units sold. The track's raw emotional delivery and Moss's prominent guitar work resonated widely, earning it the ARIA Award for Song of the Year in 1990 and helping to bridge his band legacy with solo success. The momentum continued with "", the second single from his debut album , released in June 1989. It climbed to number 7 on the Singles Chart, staying in the top 50 for several weeks and underscoring Moss's vocal maturity alongside his signature technique. This release solidified his commercial viability as a solo artist, contributing to 's number 1 album peak and its sweep of five Awards, including Album of the Year. In 1991, Moss issued singles from his second album Worlds Away, including "Slip Away", which entered the ARIA Singles Chart and peaked at number 56, reflecting a more experimental phase with layered production and introspective lyrics. Though not matching earlier heights, it highlighted his willingness to explore beyond mainstream rock formulas. Later, "The Bright Side" from the 1996 album Petrolhead emerged as a fan favorite, emphasizing themes of resilience through its upbeat and Moss's distinctive phrasing, though it received limited commercial airplay. Moss's output in the and beyond shifted toward deeper personal narratives, with "If Another Day (Love Rewards Its Own)" released in February 2018 from his self-titled album. The single, praised for its heartfelt balladry and Moss's aged-yet-powerful vocals, supported the album's number 11 ARIA Albums Chart entry, his highest solo placement since 1989. It exemplified his enduring appeal in mature rock audiences, blending acoustic elements with emotional . More recently, "Rivers Run Dry" served as the lead promotional single for his 2023 album of the same name, co-produced with Brent Clark and featuring a duet with on another track. Released in July 2023, it captures Moss's reflections on Australian outback life and environmental themes, receiving acclaim for its authenticity and live performance potential during his subsequent tour. While not aimed at chart dominance, the single reinforces Moss's legacy as a thoughtful songwriter in contemporary Australian music.

Awards and nominations

ARIA Music Awards

Ian Moss achieved significant recognition at the ARIA Music Awards in 1990 for his debut solo album Matchbook (1989) and its lead single "Tucker's Daughter" (1988, shared with Don Walker). He won Album of the Year for Matchbook, Best Male Artist for Matchbook, Breakthrough Artist – Album for Matchbook, Breakthrough Artist – Single for "Tucker's Daughter", and Song of the Year for "Tucker's Daughter". These victories marked Moss's breakthrough as a solo artist following his tenure with , highlighting his transition to a prominent individual presence in Australian rock music. No further solo wins were recorded in subsequent ceremonies, though his contributions as a founding member of were honored when the band was inducted into the in 1993, acknowledging their enduring impact on the industry.

Other awards

In addition to his ARIA accolades, Ian Moss has received recognition from the Australasian Performing Right Association (APRA) for his songwriting contributions. As a member of Cold Chisel, Moss was honored with the Ted Albert Award for Outstanding Services to Australian Music at the 2016 APRA Music Awards, acknowledging the band's enduring impact on the industry. More recently, his collaboration with Troy Cassar-Daley on "Nullarbor Plain" earned a nomination for Most Performed Rock Work at the 2024 APRA Music Awards. Moss has also been celebrated in the sphere through the Country Music Awards of Australia (CMAA), particularly for his later explorations blending and country elements. In 2022, he won Vocal Collaboration of the Year at the Golden Guitar Awards for "South," a with from the album The World Today, marking Moss's first such honor and highlighting his versatility in genre crossovers. Other industry honors underscore Moss's prowess as a guitarist. In a 2014 poll by Australian Musician magazine, he was voted Australia's Best Singer/Guitarist with 39% of the votes, ahead of international figures like Eric Clapton. Australian Guitar magazine ranked him third on its Definitive Top Ten Australian Guitarists of All Time list that year. Furthermore, as part of Cold Chisel, Moss was inducted into the South Australian Music Hall of Fame in 2015, recognizing the group's foundational role in Australian rock.

References

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