Coldplay’s Chris Martin honours John Farnham in original song for Melbourne tribute concert
MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA — September 21, 2026

Coldplay frontman Chris Martin made a surprise appearance at a major tribute concert for Australian music icon John Farnham, performing an original song written especially for the legendary singer.

Martin appeared remotely during The Songs of John Farnham: A Living Legend – The Celebration Concert at Melbourne’s sold-out Rod Laver Arena on Sunday night. More than 120 artists and musicians took part in the event.

Chris Martin Performs Original Tribute
Martin performed a new acoustic song titled “Better Singer Than Me”, combining humour with a personal tribute to Farnham.

The song was inspired by Martin’s friendship with the late Australian cricket star Shane Warne. Warne had previously joked with Martin that John Farnham was a better singer than the Coldplay frontman.

Martin’s tribute also reflected on his connection with Farnham, who joined Coldplay onstage during the 2009 Sound Relief bushfire benefit concert in Australia.

The song ended with Martin thanking Farnham and reflecting on how his music would continue to live on.

Stars Gather in Melbourne
The tribute concert featured some of Australia’s biggest musical names, including Jimmy Barnes, Tina Arena, Keith Urban, Jessica Mauboy, Human Nature, Jon Stevens and Kate Ceberano.

International stars also participated. Celine Dion appeared via live simulcast from Paris and performed Farnham’s iconic “You’re the Voice”, while Hugh Jackman joined remotely to share his memories of the Australian singer and perform “Talk of the Town.”

Keith Urban travelled from Nashville to perform “Burn For You”, while Farnham’s son Rob performed “Love To Shine.”

The concert concluded with the performers returning to the stage for another rendition of “You’re the Voice.”

Farnham Unable to Attend
Farnham himself was unable to attend the celebration because of his deteriorating health.

His family said ahead of the concert that the 77-year-old singer now requires continuous oxygen support, uses a wheelchair and receives 24-hour nursing care at home. The family said he had been deeply moved by the tribute but would remain at home for his safety and comfort.

The event also marked the beginning of the Lend Your Voice campaign, which aims to raise A$1 million for Head and Neck Cancer Australia over the next year.

For a career that has spanned decades, the Melbourne concert brought together generations of Australian and international performers to celebrate Farnham’s music and lasting influence.

Sources: ABC News Australia; Variety Australia; The Music; Rolling Stone Australia.