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Few figures in Australian music embody artistry, mystique, and endurance quite like Steve Kilbey. Best known as the enigmatic frontman, bassist, and songwriter for the rock band The Church, Steve has carved out one of the most fascinating careers in modern music — spanning over five decades, dozens of albums, and a creative output that never slows.
Starting Out
Born in England in 1954 and raised in Canberra, Steve’s early fascination with sound, words, and image set him apart from the start. As a teen, he was drawn to the surrealism of David Bowie, the lush harmonies of The Beatles, and the sonic experimentation of Pink Floyd. By the mid-’70s, he was already writing songs and performing in local bands, honing the dreamy lyrical style that would later define his career.
Founding The Church
In 1980, Kilbey co-founded The Church with guitarist Peter Koppes, later joined by Marty Willson-Piper and drummer Nick Ward. The band quickly emerged as one of the most distinctive voices of Australia’s post-punk and new wave scene. Their guitar textures, poetic lyrics, and moody atmospheres stood apart from the mainstream pop dominating the era.
Skins and Heart
The group’s breakthrough came with the 1981 debut album Of Skins and Heart, featuring the hit single The Unguarded Moment — a song that instantly became an Australian classic. Steve’s vocals and enigmatic lyrics struck a chord with audiences, and The Church gained international attention.
Under The Milky Way Takes The World By Storm
By the late ’80s, the band’s sound had evolved into something expansive and psychedelic. The ’88 album Starfish, recorded in Los Angeles, propelled them to global fame with the timeless hit Under the Milky Way. The track remains one of Australia’s most beloved songs. It has since been featured in countless films, TV shows, and ads.
The Church’s Enduring Legacy
While many bands might have faded after their biggest hit, The Church defied the odds. Steve Kilbey steered the band through decades of lineup changes, evolving sounds, and shifting trends.
A Master of Philosophy and Poetry
Steve’s lyrical vision has always been at the heart of The Church’s magic. His words, often impressionistic and mysterious, invite listeners into worlds of dreams, spirituality, and emotional depth. Critics have praised his ability to blend philosophy and poetry into rock music, creating songs that linger in both mind and mood.
Still Relevant Today
Today, The Church continues to tour and record, with Kilbey remaining the band’s guiding light. Their 2023 release, The Hypnogogue, received widespread acclaim for its cinematic storytelling and lush production — a testament to Kilbey’s ability to reinvent himself without losing his signature touch.
A Prolific Life Beyond The Church
Outside of The Church, Steve Kilbey has pursued one of the most prolific solo careers in Australian music. His catalogue spans more than 20 solo albums, numerous collaborations, and side projects that showcase his restless creativity. Steve thrives on experimentation. He’s collaborated with many artists and his solo projects reveal a deeply introspective, deep thinking and rather quirky man.
Something Quite Peculiar
Steve is also a painter, poet, and published author. His autobiography, Something Quite Peculiar (2014), offered fans a candid and often humorous glimpse into his life, complete with tales of creativity, fame, and reinvention. So too the 2017 documentary of the same name.
