Australian rock icon Jimmy Barnes has captivated fans for decades with his soulful voice and electrifying performances. But it's not just his music that's stirring up conversations these days; it's his spine-tingling encounter with the supernatural. In his new memoir, Highways and Byways, set to hit the shelves on October 16, Barnes recounts an experience that could make even the most skeptical among us pause and consider the possibility of an afterlife.


In a gripping excerpt from his book, the 68-year-old Cold Chisel frontman describes waking up one night with a sense that something was amiss. He ventured downstairs, only to come face-to-face with what he believes was the ghost of his late bandmate, drummer Steve Prestwich. The encounter was so vivid, so tangible, that Barnes recalls, 'I didn’t want to go back to sleep because it was so real, I f****** touched him. I just wanted to enjoy being with my mate, because he felt so close.' This poignant moment highlights the deep bond between the band members, transcending even the finality of death.


Steve Prestwich's untimely passing in January 2011 left a void in the Australian music scene. A founding member of Cold Chisel, Prestwich was not only a talented drummer but also the creative force behind some of the band's most enduring hits, including 'When the War Is Over' and 'Flame Trees.' His death, following a brain surgery to remove a tumor, was a shock to fans and fellow musicians alike. Barnes' ethereal encounter with Prestwich's spirit is a testament to the drummer's lasting impact on those who knew him best.


The revelation of Barnes' ghostly visitation comes on the heels of his own health struggles. The rock legend has been candid with his fans, sharing updates on his recovery from recent surgery that forced him to cancel two months' worth of shows. The pain was described as 'unbearable,' but after a period of convalescence at home, Barnes is now on the mend. The removal of his PICC line, a catheter used for long-term intravenous medication, marks a significant milestone in his journey back to health.

Barnes' resilience is as remarkable as his encounter with the supernatural. Despite undergoing open-heart surgery in 2023 and battling a bacterial infection that spread to his heart, he remains determined to return to the stage. His Instagram updates, which include images of him posing in front of a calendar marked with Cold Chisel dates, reflect his unwavering spirit. 'Rehearsing with the band again this week has topped things off,' he shared with his followers, signaling not just a return to normalcy but a reclamation of freedom.

As Barnes prepares to rejoin his bandmates and greet his fans once more, his story serves as a powerful reminder of the enduring connections we forge in life. Whether it's the bonds we share with our loved ones, the music that defines our memories, or the inexplicable encounters that challenge our understanding of the world, Jimmy Barnes' narrative is one of passion, perseverance, and perhaps, the paranormal.

So, dear readers of the Seniors Discount Club, as you ponder the mysteries of life and the echoes of the afterlife, we invite you to share your thoughts. Have you ever experienced something that defies explanation? Do you believe in the possibility of life beyond the veil? Join the conversation and let us know. And for those eager to delve deeper into the life and musings of Jimmy Barnes, Highways and Byways promises to be a journey through the heart of Australian rock 'n' roll, peppered with personal anecdotes that are as haunting as they are heartfelt.