Darren Hayes was a very talented musician and songwriter. Your father and him met many years ago, when your father held an audition for a lead singer for his band Red Edge....
"Okay, thank you, we'll call you if you're picked..." Those were virtually the only words that left Daniel's mouth all day. It was the fall of 1991, and Daniel's band Red Edge needed a new lead singer. About 30 people had been auditioned - only one was left.
"Hey Oliver, who's next?" asked a tired Daniel.
"Just this guy - Darren Hayes," replied Oliver, Daniel's brother. "19 years old...preschool teacher...has interest in music and theatre."
"Ah, bring him in!" said a cynical Daniel. What talent could a preschool teacher bring? Yet he gave Darren a chance. Although Darren's voice wasn't the best that day, it surely made an impression on Daniel.
Hey...this kid has potential... thought Daniel. He might be valuable. He called Darren up, asked for his details and promised to keep in touch.
That was to be a beginning of a beautiful friendship. Darren and your father soon paired up, left Red Edge and started their own group - Savage Garden. Of course the journey to success wasn't easy...what with 150 demo tapes rejected by big-wig record companies. Yet they preservered, and soon they became the biggest thing from Australia since INXS. Your father was really proud of Savage Garden...and also of his best friend Darren. Oh if only Savage Garden were back together...
