In 1983, the Australian rock band Men at Work won the Grammy Award for Best New Artist, rising above an impressive field of contenders. The honor followed the massive success of the band’s debut album, Business as Usual, which featured the international hits “Who Can It Be Now” and “Down Under.”

Guitarist and vocalist Colin Hay, widely recognized as the band’s frontman, was born in Scotland in 1953. He grew up immersed in music, as his parents owned a music store. In 1967, at age 14, he moved to Australia, where he would later reach international stardom.

After Men at Work disbanded in the mid-1980s, Hay continued forward, building a successful and enduring solo career. His body of work reflects a prolific songwriter with an eclectic résumé. He has appeared as an actor on Scrubs and was the subject of the documentary Colin Hay: Waiting for My Real Life.

Growing up, Hay was influenced by many musicians, particularly The Beatles. In 2003, he was invited to join Ringo Starr and his All Starr Band, an experience that reflected both admiration and full-circle artistry.

Among his additional accolades, Hay’s solo song “I Just Don’t Think I’ll Ever Get Over You” appeared on the Grammy Award-winning Garden State soundtrack, which earned Best Compilation Soundtrack Album in 2005.

Hay will perform April 13 at the Fox Tucson Theatre. The evening will feature selections from his album Now and The Evermore, along with vintage pop, pub rock and folk favorites from across his catalog.

The music on Now and The Evermore is vibrant and richly orchestrated, featuring a guest appearance by Starr, who opens the album with a signature drum fill. Hay has said the project emphasizes shared humanity, letting go of dead weight and reaching for the light no matter how dark circumstances may seem.

Known for connecting deeply with audiences, Hay is a consummate storyteller with a commanding yet approachable stage presence. His performances showcase soulful vocals, sharp wit and a warmth that resonates long after the final encore.

“I have incredible memories of being young and surrounded by music. It was magical. My father would play me Beatles songs when he got home from work. I played piano originally but switched to guitar. Allison Bell was the teacher at school who taught me how to play.”

“I’ve had to actively seek out the positive, to let new rays of hope shine on some seemingly dark situations.”

“I have a band. I sing lead vocals and play guitar. Cecilia Noel, who is also my wife, sings and plays percussion. San Miguel Perez plays guitar and sings. Yasmel Montejo plays bass and sings. Jimmy Branly plays drums. Scheila Gonzalez plays saxophone, flute, keyboards and sings.”

“In 2003 I was on Santa Monica Boulevard and got a call from his manager asking me to join. I said yes without hesitation.”

“I’d love another hit record. It would be nice to prove it wasn’t a fluke. I’d also like more time in the studio writing. I’m 72, so I may have 10 to 15 years left. I want to enjoy life and say what I need to say. I just got a new titanium knee, so I have a new spring in my step.”

“Maybe Joni Mitchell. Who she is and how she makes me feel when I listen to her music. ‘Both Sides Now’ is a profound reflection about life.”

“My inner voice. ‘Just keep going.’ Live audiences, friends and fans gave me love and support.”

“I look up recipes on YouTube and cook.”

Remembering Babylon by David Malouf.

“Joy and gratitude. Positivity and determination. Learning to live in the present.”