Riverton-born, Australian-based entertainer Jim Cooper returns to the south

Riverton-born, Australian-based entertainer Jim Cooper returns to the south at the end of October for two shows.

He was the lead vocalist and rhythm guitarist for early 1960s Invercargill band The Courtelles, who are believed to be the first Southland band recorded on vinyl, in 1963.

Jim Cooper comes from a musical family. Grandparents Harry and Maggie Morton, Aunt and Uncle Rita and Joe O’Mera and Jim’s mother Jessie were all musicians. When the family played at local dances, as a baby, Jim’s bed was behind the piano. It’s no wonder he chose to make music his career.

Specialising in blues, rock ‘n’ roll and country rock as a singer, songwriter, guitarist and bassist, Jim travelled many roads in the music industry, both here and overseas, honing his skills for over 60 years.

After working professionally and semi-professionally throughout New Zealand in his early career, Jim moved to Australia in 1970, becoming fully professional at a time when the live music industry was at its peak. His resumé of hundreds of stage shows, over 200 television shows, three LPs, 12 singles (two of which were released in America and Europe) and four CDs is testament to the success of his solo career. Jim also served as musical director, sound engineer, backing performer and collaborator to some of Australasia’s premier artists.

Big River, Jim’s latest CD, draws heavily on his journey through the early years of growing up in Riverton. A limited number of copies will be available at the venues.

Inducted into the Southland Musicians Club Hall of Fame in 2012, it is Jim’s wish to round out his musical journey where it began, in his hometown Riverton.

• Jim Cooper and Friends will be appearing at: Aparima Tavern, Riverton, Saturday, October 29 and the Southland Musicians Club, 33 Preston Street, Invercargill, Sunday, October 30.