Missy Higgins Delivers All-Star Medley at ARIA Hall of Fame

Missy Higgins’ recent induction into the ARIA Hall of Fame during the 2024 ARIA Awards served as a heartfelt tribute to her remarkable career and the significant impact she has made on the landscape of Australian music. This prestigious acknowledgment not only celebrates her artistic achievements but also highlights her role in shaping the music scene for emerging artists.

The ceremony took place at Sydney’s Hordern Pavilion, a venue steeped in history and culture, situated on Gadigal land on November 20. This memorable event celebrated Missy Higgins’s incredible journey, showcasing her two decades filled with chart-topping hits, deeply emotional storytelling, and unwavering dedication to authenticity within the music industry. This recognition underscored not only her personal achievements but also the significant mark she has left on the Australian music scene, inspiring countless artists to express themselves through their own unique voices.

The evening culminated in a spectacular performance featuring Higgins alongside a lineup of talented artists, including Amy Shark, Angie McMahon, Gretta Ray, and the dynamic G Flip, who recently earned the “Song of the Year” award for their hit “The Worst Person Alive.” Together, they created a high-energy medley that celebrated Missy’s most cherished songs, allowing the audience to relive the magic of her music and the emotions that resonate deeply with fans across Australia and beyond.

Before taking the stage for this electrifying performance, Higgins delivered a heartfelt speech during her ARIA Hall of Fame induction. She expressed her gratitude by saying, “I really have to gather myself. What an incredible honour it is to accept this award and to stand up here tonight in front of all you guys, my music pals, my music industry family. Some of you I’ve been touring alongside for over 23 years. And I feel so bloody fortunate to have shared this journey with you all.” Her words resonated not only with her peers but also with the audience, highlighting the bonds that music can create within the industry.

During her speech, Higgins went beyond personal reflection and issued a compelling call to action for the Australian music industry. She passionately voiced her support for local talent, emphasizing the importance of nurturing homegrown artists and giving them the platform they deserve. Her remarks served as a reminder of the responsibility that established artists have in paving the way for the next generation of musicians, ensuring that the rich tapestry of Australian music continues to thrive.

“The young singer-songwriter just starting out won’t be as fortunate as me,” she explained passionately. “We have to keep demanding local content here. We can’t lose Australian stories. We lose that, we lose who we are.” Her words struck a chord, emphasizing the vital connection between music and cultural identity. By advocating for the inclusion of local narratives, Higgins highlighted the need for a music industry that reflects the diverse experiences of its people.

Since her groundbreaking debut in 2004 with The Sound of White, Higgins has consistently been a powerful force in the realm of Australian music. This initial album showcased unforgettable tracks like “Scar” and “The Special Two,” achieving an impressive 12-times platinum certification and dominating the charts for seven non-consecutive weeks at No. 1 on the ARIA Albums Chart. Following this success, her subsequent albums—On A Clear Night (2007) and The Ol’ Razzle Dazzle (2012)—also reached the top spot, solidifying her status as a leading figure in the industry.

Higgins’ latest record, The Second Act, released in September through EMI Australia, has continued her impressive streak, becoming her fourth album to achieve the top position on the ARIA Albums Chart. This album showcases her growth as an artist and her ability to connect with audiences through relatable themes and captivating melodies, further establishing her legacy within the thriving Australian music scene.

In a candid interview with Rolling Stone AU/NZ discussing her highly anticipated first full-length release in six years, Higgins shared insights into her creative process. She stated, “I generally take really big breaks in between albums and then when I come back, I’m immersed in the process. I’m very obsessed with it, and it becomes my entire life for a while. It’s like the ‘birth, death, rebirth’ circle. Going around and around.” This reflects her deep commitment to her craft and the emotional investment she places in her music, underscoring her dedication to authenticity.

At the awards, Missy also received the Best Australian Live Act award for her Second Act tour, which has captivated audiences and sold over 100,000 tickets. Reflecting on her experiences during the tour, she shared, “I was in tears at the beginning of this tour because I didn’t know how I was going to sing these songs every night,” adding that the journey turned out to be the “best bloody therapy.” This highlights the transformative power of music and performance, both for the artist and the fans who connect with her deeply personal songs.

When the announcement of her prestigious induction into the ARIA Hall of Fame was made back in September, Higgins expressed her feelings of honor and gratitude. “I feel very honoured and grateful. So many artists I love and admire are in the ARIA Hall of Fame, so it feels a bit surreal to be joining them. This year has already been really special, now this is going to make it even more memorable.” Her humble acknowledgment of her place among music legends speaks volumes about her character and the respect she commands within the industry.

The 2024 ARIA Awards were filled with unforgettable performances, including a surprise world TV exclusive by the Pixies of their classic “Where Is My Mind.” This iconic band, currently supporting Pearl Jam on tour, has also recently announced their own Australian tour, which will see them return to the country next year. Such performances not only celebrate the history of music but also connect generations of fans through their timeless sound.

U.S. country star Kane Brown joined Troy Cassar-Daley onstage for a heartfelt duet, which was further enriched by a surprise vocal appearance from the iconic Australian music legend, Kasey Chambers. This collaboration showcased the spirit of camaraderie and mutual respect that exists within the music industry, enhancing the evening’s celebratory atmosphere and highlighting the beauty of collaboration across genres.

Jessica Mauboy illuminated the stage, teaming up with Best Hip Hop/Rap winners 3% and Julian Hamilton of The Presets for a stunning rendition of “Won’t Stop” and “Our People.” The rising stars, including CYRIL, Becca Hatch, and Budjerah, delivered a genre-blurring performance that emphasized the promising future of Australian music, while Ava Max brought a high-energy medley of her hits, including “Sweet but Psycho,” “Kings & Queens,” and her latest single collaboration, “Forever Young” (featuring David Guetta and Alphaville). These performances reflect the diverse musical landscape of Australia and the vibrant talent that continues to emerge.

Don’t miss the chance to watch Missy Higgins and her talented friends perform at the 2024 ARIA Awards here.