‘Ready to rock’: Jimmy Barnes teases a return to the stage as he wishes fans a Happy New Year

Aussie rock legend Jimmy Barnes has hinted at a much-anticipated return to the stage in the new year following his recent health battle.

The iconic singer, known for his powerful voice and electrifying performances, took to social media to reflect on 2023 and welcome in the new year while sharing his eagerness to return to performing.

“I just wanted to wish everyone a very Happy New Year. The last year has been challenging for me at times but it has also been filled with love, family, food and of course music,” he began.

“The difficult times have made me realize how lucky I am to be surrounded by my beautiful family and as I sit here in my bed recovering from surgery I am thankful to all the amazing people who have been a part of our lives and to everyone who has sent well wishes and cheered me on throughout the year.

“2024 will bring more challenges I’m sure but I am excited to see what else is on the horizon. Thank you to all who came out in support of Australian music over the last 12 months. And I look forward to seeing you on the road ahead.

“In a few months I will be ready to rock so dust of your dancing shoes we’ve got a hell of a year ahead of us.”

 

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Fans flooded social media with a chorus of heartfelt messages, wishing Barnes all the best for the year ahead.

“Happy New Year to Jane & yourself & your beautiful family. Wishing you all a most wonderful year ahead but for now kick back & have a restful new year,” one fan wrote.

“Wishing you and your family all the best for the New Year. Take your time with your recovery. This is the time for you to look after you.”

“You are an inspiration!” commented another.

“Thank you, to you and your family for always being here to cheer us, entertain us and humble us with the important things in life. Take it easy, can’t wait to see you next year.”

It had certainly been a difficult end to 2023 for the Working Class Man hitmaker.

After being admitted to hospital in late November with bacterial pneumonia, Barnes shocked fans when he announced that he was to undergo open heart surgery after the infection spread.

“Unfortunately I got some bad news late yesterday … despite everyone’s best efforts the bacterial infection I’ve been battling over the last fortnight has apparently now spread to my heart,” he said at the time

“It’s infected an otherwise healthy valve that was replaced some years ago due to a congenital defect, so I’ll be getting open-heart surgery over the next few hours to clear out this infection and put in a clean valve.

“Obviously this is going to take me out of action for a while. I know lots of other people are battling even worse things but it still feels hugely frustrating.

“Just a few weeks ago I was the fittest I’ve been in decades!”

Despite concerns from fans, Barnes made massive strides in his recovery in no time with regular updates showing him all smiles from his hospital bed and others in which he was up and about and walking around the hospital.

Fortunately, Barnes later received the all-clear to return home, allowing the rock legend to celebrate Christmas surrounded by the warmth and love of his family.