The Sports for the uninitiated were a 70's pop/rock group that originated in Melbourne.
They had punchy radio hits like Don't Throw Stones and Who Listens to the Radio. In addition to several well received albums on the Mushroom label.
They toured extensively in Australia and overseas.
Then it ended for the Sports.
People moved on.
Stephen Cummings never left music and reports it as his only 'job'.
I was given the pleasure of interviewing Stephen Cummings in the midst of his new album tour – Nothing to be frightened of. He did say he had an attempt at uni life after the Sports but reverted to his real love of music.
In his memoir, released in 2009, called 'Will it be Funny Tomorrow Billy', he relates not being cut out for fame. Stephen describes feeling hemmed in by endless touring. When the music is what he is really obsessed by. There are many tales of his early explorations of the Melbourne music scene as a teenager.
He has since made his mark as a musicians' musician.
As a pop music devotee I have kept all my vinyl records and singles. Occasionally dusting off the turntable to have a listen. Nostalgia for my teenage years in which the Sports were played on high rotation.
Stephen Cummings has not related to his Sports back catalogue in his music for some decades. Preferring to break new ground and collaborate with other musicians.
He has released a number of albums over a number of decades, each one recorded with a core of musician friends who possess the same savvy.
Also releasing a work of fiction entitled Wonderboy in 1996. When asked about writing further books Stephen was dismissive of the idea, but who knows? He is a prolific reader and former chain smoker.
All these experiences are reflected in his voice, style and music.
Looking at Stephen's bio I noticed his birth date swooping on to an upcoming 60th birthday milestone. Stephen was quite matter of fact about this, but was looking forward to getting his seniors card!
There are more projects in the pipeline from Stephen for the public to see.
A documentary recently premiered at the Melbourne Film Festival, which focuses on interviews with people he has worked with and feature in his memoir. He relates it is as an honest right of reply from friends and colleagues and does not always portray him in a good light. Entitled Don't Throw Stones it will gain a release on ABC TV.
Stephen will be touring nationally in September to launch 'Nothing to be frightened of'.
STEPHEN CUMMINGS NATIONAL TOUR DATES
Sep 4 Café Deus, Sydney
Sep 5 The Caravan Music Club, Melbourne
Sep 11 The Wheatsheaf, Adelaide
Sep 13 Junk Bar, Brisbane