The Barnes Family Tree
Jimmy Barnes, born James Dixon Swan, was the third of six children to his parents, James and Dorothy Swan. The family immigrated to Adelaide, Australia, from Glasgow, Scotland, when he was just five years old. After his parents divorced, his mother remarried Reg Barnes, and Jimmy and most of his siblings adopted his stepfather’s surname. This created a lasting family bond, with Jimmy later stating, “Jim Swan was my father, but Reg Barnes was my dad.”
The siblings shared a difficult childhood, which Jimmy has detailed in his best-selling memoirs, Working Class Boy and Working Class Man. Despite the challenges, music was a constant in their lives, and it was a shared passion that cemented their bond.
Meet the Barnes Brothers and Sisters
Jimmy Barnes had six siblings in total, but two of them, Alan and Lisa, have kept very private lives. The others, however, are also connected to the world of music.
His older brother, John Swan, is an accomplished rock singer in his own right, best known by his stage name, “Swanee.” He was a successful artist in the 1980s, with multiple hit singles and albums. It was Swanee who encouraged and taught Jimmy how to sing, recognizing his younger brother’s raw talent before he did. Their musical bond is a testament to their shared passion, and the brothers have collaborated on various projects over the years.
The rock family suffered a tragic loss in May 2022. Jimmy’s sister, Linda Barnes, passed away, having kept her battle with multiple sclerosis private from her family until a few months prior. Both Jimmy and Swanee shared heartfelt tributes to her on social media, honoring her fighting spirit.
His other sister, Dorothy, also known as “Dot,” has remained largely out of the public eye. She, like her brothers, also has a passion for music, although she has not pursued a public career.
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CONCLUSION
The story of Jimmy Barnes’ siblings is one of resilience and love. While his rock legacy made him a household name, his family has always been his anchor. Their shared passion for music and a difficult upbringing forged an unbreakable bond, reminding us that behind every public figure is a deeply human story.
