Barnes Heart with Holden

Traveling light: Jimmy Barnes spends a lot of time behind the wheel.

Jimmy Barnes is said to have the hardest working vocal cords in Australian rock. And once he led an even more difficult lifestyle. The former Cold Chisel frontman and 51-year-old father of five almost died earlier this year after undergoing surgery to correct a bicuspid aortic valve in his heart. During his recovery, Barnes wrote Out in the Blue, his 13th studio. album, on sale tomorrow.

What was your first car?

Morris Oxford. I paid $25 for it, it had a six month life and a full tank of gas. I was 16 and I lived in Adelaide.

What are you driving now?

Commodore Holden. I can take my dogs with me. I like Holdens, good cars. When I'm on the road, I hire them. I recently sang in Bathurst and it was great. I watched the start of the race from the pits. I exchanged a few words with Skyfi before he started. I have done Bathurst several times. I met with Craig Lounds and Mark Skaife several times. They are quite intense, serious guys. They are both incredible drivers. I think the whole V8 Supercars thing is great.

Do you have a favorite drive and who would you take?

I would take my wife Jane anywhere, but we love driving along the north coast of New South Wales.

How far would you travel on average in a year?

Jesus! Hard to say. I'm on the road all the time. I drove 600 miles this weekend.

What is your favorite car memory?

We have a car in Thailand, a Chevy van that belonged to Jane's father. He gave it to us and it looks like a boat. It has karaoke and large luxurious seats. My friends call it a pimp because it's full of mirrors and light shows. We love to get together with the whole family, ride, watch movies, go to the beach in Thailand.

What would you buy if money wasn't an issue?

I like my Holden, but if money wasn't an issue, I would buy an electric car.

What music is playing in your car?

At the moment, the new album The Hives The Black & White Album is being released.

How much is too much for a new car?

More than you can afford!

What should be done to make driving safer?

I think we could lower the speed limits. . . Trucks must have their own lanes and stay in them.

Are you sponsored by a car company?

Нет!