Announced yesterday as headliner of the Sydney Festival, The Reverend Al Green has the rest of the country in his sights as well. This January tour will be the soul survivor’s first ever visit to Australia, so we’re in for some remarkable shows.

At 63 years old, Green is still amassing ecstatic reviews for his live performances. He’d certainly have no trouble building a set-list, with an enviable catalogue of classics from the 1970s.

Ordained as a pastor in Memphis in 1976, he has only grown in stature as a gospel singer right up until the release of his 2008 album Lay It Down. That record was proof his voice had lost none of its thrill and power. Now we’ll get to hear it live.

This tour will see the man backed by his all-star 12-piece band, and supported by local lights The Ray Mann Three. Tickets on sale 9am, Wednesday 18 November.

Saturday 9 January – Sydney Festival First Night, The Domain, Sydney
Monday 11 January – State Theatre, Sydney
Tuesday 12 January – State Theatre, Sydney
Thursday 14 January – Palais Theatre, Melbourne
Sunday 17 January – Perth Zoo, Perth
Tuesday 19 January – Convention and Exhibition Centre, Brisbane