Kamahl, is one such singer, and people of the Hastings have the chance to hear him sing the songs he made his own, and to listen to him chat about his amazing life. It is a night not to be missed with the legendary 83-year-old entertainer.

From truly humble beginnings as a refugee born to Tamil Hindu parents in Malaysia, Kamahl became a much loved performer with an international reputation. He has entertained royalty, can call Rupert Murdoch a friend, dined with former US President Barack Obama, and is a Member of the Order of Australia, among many other awards.

In 1953, Kamahl arrived in Adelaide as a lonely black teenager. He played cricket very well, but it was his singing that brought him more recognition. “I sang at parties and in some clubs and then I won a song contest to go to Sydney to perform.”

His rich bass baritone vocals came to the attention of Rupert Murdoch. The media baron invited Kamahl to live at his home while he oversaw his early career. “He got me my first television appearance in 1959.”

Originally signed as a classical artist with Phonogram in 1967, he says: “They wanted me to sing opera, but I was more interested in love songs and beautiful words”. Words come way ahead of music, he says.

One of Kamahl’s hits was Desiderata, written by Max Ehrmann. Two lines: Keep interested in your own career - However humble, it is a real possession in the changing fortunes of time – is prophetic. In 1975, Kamahl became a household name thanks to his hit, The Elephant Song. But despite recording more than 30 albums and earning more than 100 gold and platinum records, he admits to having made some poor career choices. 

But in 2011, after meeting President Obama, he recorded The Gettysburg Address for his 2012 triple-CD Heart and Soul. In 2013, he was invited to Parliament House to perform it on the 150th anniversary of Lincoln's oration. “I can die happily knowing I have done something of value,” he says.

His Glasshouse appearance will be a one night only intimate insight into his 60-year career. So, how did we get so lucky? Well, as the saying goes, it’s not what you know, but who you know. The principals of local production company Got Ya Back Productions happen to be related to long time friends of Kamahl. Stephanie Maddren’s grandparents were in the audience of a Kamahl concert when the man himself presented a rose to her grandmother. Kamahl explains: “They came backstage and this rather large man threatened to reduce me to pulp. He then burst out laughing and we have been friends ever since”.