24 June 2026
For many Australians, it is hard to imagine a summer concert, festival or sporting event without Daryl Braithwaite belting out The Horses. But the beloved singer has announced that he is stepping away from live performances, bringing an extraordinary 58-year stage career to a close.
Braithwaite described the decision as both “difficult” and “sad”, explaining that it has become increasingly challenging for him to sing comfortably. The 77-year-old said the physical demands of performing had gradually taken away the joy he has always found in being on stage, prompting him to retire from live gigs.
From his days fronting the legendary Australian band Sherbet to his hugely successful solo career, Braithwaite has been a fixture of Australian music for decades. Hits such as Howzat, One Summer, As The Days Go By and, of course, The Horses have ensured his place among the country’s most popular performers.
The announcement sparked an outpouring of support from fans and fellow artists. Singer Kate Ceberano praised his remarkable career, while many others thanked him for the soundtrack he has provided to generations of Australians. Although he may no longer be appearing on stage, Daryl Braithwaite’s musical legacy remains secure.
The 1970s: SHERBET AND SOLO
Long before his solo success, Daryl Braithwaite became a household name as the lead singer of the Australian pop-rock band Sherbet. Joining the group in 1970, Braithwaite’s powerful vocals and boyish charisma quickly made him one of the country’s biggest music stars.
Sherbet’s classic line-up consisted of Daryl on vocals, Tony Mitchell on bass guitar, Garth Porter on keyboards, Alan Sandow on drums, and Clive Shakespeare on guitar.
Throughout the 1970s, the band dominated the Australian charts with a string of hit singles, including Summer Love, Cassandra, Life and Howzat. The band’s popularity was so great that “Sherbetmania” became a national phenomenon, with fans flocking to concerts and buying millions of records.
While still singing with Sherbet, Daryl also embarked on a solo career, with hit singles in the 1970s including Love Has No Pride, Cavalry, Old Sid, and You’re My World.
Braithwaite’s years with Sherbet laid the foundation for a remarkable career that would span more than five decades.
More songs by Sherbet: BaG Song Finder
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