Jim Kerr of Simple Minds joins Noise11 to reflect on more than four decades of music, memories and milestones, from the band’s first Australian tour in 1981 through to the release of their acclaimed album Direction of the Heart.
In this in-depth interview, Kerr looks back on Simple Minds’ earliest Australian shows opening for Icehouse and explains how those tours helped build the loyal fanbase the band still enjoys today. He discusses the remarkable longevity of Simple Minds, admitting that when the band first started he never imagined they would still be making records and touring more than 40 years later.
Kerr also talks about the making of Direction of the Heart, revealing how the album was created during the uncertainty of the pandemic and why the title reflected the band’s determination to keep moving forward. He shares the emotional story behind “Vision Thing”, a tribute to his father who provided the money that helped launch Simple Minds’ career, and explains why the song became a celebration of life rather than a mournful reflection.
The conversation also explores the origins of “Act of Love”, a song dating back to the band’s first gig in 1978 that finally found its place on a Simple Minds album more than four decades later. Kerr discusses collaborating with Russell Mael of Sparks, revisiting New Gold Dream for its 40th anniversary, and the challenge of creating setlists that satisfy both casual fans and longtime followers.
Away from music, Kerr also reveals how he built a successful hotel business in Sicily and explains why he finds similarities between running a hospitality business and performing live.
Watch the full interview with Jim Kerr and discover the stories behind one of the most enduring careers in modern music.
Simple Minds and Gary Numan Dates:
13 February 2027, Perth, RAC Arena
16 February 2027, Adelaide, Adelaide Entertainment Centre Arena
18 February 2027, Melbourne, Rod Laver Arena
20 February 2027, Sydney, Qudos Bank Arena
21 February 2027, Brisbane, Brisbane Entertainment Centre
Ticketing details: Tickets available through Destroy All Lines.
