You've been incredibly busy with touring and finishing your first solo record in 7 years. What keeps you motivated and passionate about making music after all these years?
I'm 64 on October 8th and I'm grateful to be here and I really don't think I have peaked at all. I'm impervious to everything except the joy of being immersed in what I do. And it's a pure joy. I love it. Getting to perform live keeps the passion alive it gives me the opportunity to be connected to my fans. I'm really excited to add the hits from Shimmer to my set.

You reunited with Kevin Savigar during the Rod Stewart tour. What was it about reconnecting with him that sparked the desire to collaborate again on this new record?
Kev's a genius, plain and simple. We just clicked, and he was already on tour, so it was easy. The camaraderie was instant, and when he suggested writing together, I jumped at the chance.

You're a big fan of Nile Rodgers, and "Trippin’" is described as a nod to him. What is it about his music that resonates with you, and how did you incorporate that influence into this track?
Nile's a master of groove and feel-good vibes. Trippin’ is all about that. It's pure fun, a party track where you can just let loose and dance. It's a nod to his funk sensibility.

Summer of Love seems to balance upbeat vibes with some serious lyrics about dealing with depression. How did you approach blending those contrasting elements in the song?
It's a fun song but it is also about dealing with depression, it's saying "Come on, it's gonna be alright." I've always maintained a healthy optimism in life, because as a musician if you don't have optimism, you've got nothing! Even at my worst times, I tell myself not to mope and just get on with it. Every day is a summer of love if you can change your attitude. It's about shifting your perspective and finding the good, even when things are tough.

Looking back on your extensive career, how does Shimmer fit into your overall artistic journey, and what do you hope listeners will take away from this album?
Everyone says their latest album is their best work, but I think Shimmer is my best work. It feels like a complete record to me. I can hear it from beginning to end and love every song, whereas on previous records I can hear things I could have improved, but not on this one. It's me at my best, reflecting on life, love, and loss. I hope it connects with people on a deep level.

Jon Stevens – Summer of Love Rockfest 2026

Fri 14 Feb 2026 – Margaret Court Arena – Melbourne, VIC
Sat 7 Mar 2026 – Fortitude Music Hall – Brisbane, QLD
Fri 10 Apr 2026 – Crown Theatre – Perth, WA (The Screaming Jets not performing in Perth)
Sat 18 Apr 2026 – Hordern Pavilion – Sydney, NSW

Tickets on sale from 10am Thursday 10 October 2025 via jonstevens.com

A Quick Chat with Jon Stevens