BSMDDS838 – JIMMY THE BEAR – SILENCE AND DUST
‘Silence and Dust’ is a haunting and heartfelt ballad that weaves together memory, movement, and a deep respect for Country. With a traveller’s voice and an open heart, the song explores the quiet power of shared stories and ancient land. From the opening lines—”I’m a traveller just passing through, do you mind if I sit here with you?”—it’s clear this isn’t just a journey through place, but through truth and time.
The verses are rich with imagery—the smell of rain, the sound of thunder, and the timeless red earth grounding every step. These elements wrap around the listener like a warm wind across the desert, while the chorus lifts us into a dreamlike space of reflection and reconciliation. “Tall ships, white sails” evoke a history that still echoes in the present, with the poignant line “Always was, always will be” anchoring the song in the unchanging truth of Aboriginal sovereignty.
With its stripped-back instrumentation and emotionally raw vocals, ‘Silence and Dust’ captures a uniquely Australian perspective, honouring the past while holding space for healing. It’s a song that doesn’t rush—just like the land it sings about—it listens, remembers, and gently reminds us that while everything changes, some things remain: silence, dust, and the enduring spirit of this land.
Jimmy Bear is a seasoned singer-songwriter, guitarist, and live performance artist who has been captivating audiences since the age of 17. Known for his soulful country vocals, exceptional lead and rhythm guitar work, and dynamic stage presence, Jimmy has carved out a respected place in the Australian music industry. His talents have taken him from playing with blues legend Bo Diddley to supporting some of Australia’s most iconic bands and even writing for country music royalty—his poignant track “The Last Ride” was recorded by Slim Dusty on the gold album The King of Kalgoorlie (EMI).
A true musical storyteller, Jimmy co-wrote a children’s album about dinosaurs with eight-time Golden Guitar winner Allan Caswell, released by entertainer Glynn Nichols through Sony Music. He performs an impressive 150 shows a year as a solo act on the Sydney live circuit, earning a loyal fan base with his authenticity and passion. His 2023 single Silence and Dust—a heartfelt ballad that reached No. 1 on the Australian Country Thunder Top 30—showcases his depth as both a writer and performer.
As he continues to evolve, Jimmy Bear is working with some of the best in the business, including Eddie Parise (Baby Animals), Steve James (Screaming Jets, Mental As Anything), and Sam Panetta (Kylie Minogue, Crowded House). With new music on the way and an album planned for release in 2025, Jimmy remains dedicated to his craft, constantly exploring new creative ground and building meaningful connections with fans and collaborators alike.
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