Sheppard: Did You Know?
Fun Facts & Untold Stories About Sheppard
The Australian pop band Sheppard shot to international fame with their catchy anthem Geronimo, but there's much more to the group than meets the ear. Hailing from Brisbane, the band is a family affair, with siblings Amy, George, and Emma Sheppard at the forefront. While they've had chart-topping hits and performed on some of the world’s biggest stages, there are plenty of fun facts and lesser-known stories about Sheppard that even their biggest fans may not know. Let’s dive into some of the most interesting tidbits about the band.
1. The Band Started as a Duo in Papua New Guinea
Most people know Sheppard as a full band, but it originally started as a duo between siblings Amy and George Sheppard. The two began making music together when they lived in Papua New Guinea, where their father worked. While they were there, they started experimenting with songwriting, which later evolved into the global success we know today. Amy and George’s sibling bond became the foundation of what would eventually become Sheppard.
2. Sheppard’s Breakthrough Came with a Song They Almost Gave Up On
Their breakout hit, Geronimo, became a global sensation, but did you know that the band nearly scrapped it? They weren't initially sure about the song, and it took some convincing to get it to the finish line. However, once it was completed, the band knew they had something special. Geronimo ended up topping the Australian charts for three weeks and became the first independent Australian track to reach number one in over three decades. The song’s success turned Sheppard into a household name almost overnight.
3. They Hold a Guinness World Record
In 2015, Sheppard earned a Guinness World Record for the largest public sing-along of Geronimo at the Sydney Opera House. Over 12,000 people gathered at the iconic venue to sing along with the band, setting a world record. It was a testament to how beloved the song had become, and the moment was particularly special for the band as it took place in their home country of Australia.
4. Amy Sheppard’s Advocacy for Body Positivity
Amy Sheppard is not just a talented musician—she’s also a passionate advocate for body positivity. In 2018, Amy launched the #KissMyFatAss movement, which encourages people to embrace their natural bodies and reject societal pressures for perfection. She frequently shares candid and unfiltered photos on social media to promote body acceptance and self-love. Her activism has inspired fans all over the world, and she continues to use her platform to raise awareness around body image issues.
5. The Band’s First Tour Was with Justin Bieber
Before they hit it big with Geronimo, Sheppard opened for Justin Bieber during his 2013 Australian tour. It was a huge opportunity for the then-up-and-coming band, exposing them to massive crowds and giving them their first taste of life on the road. That tour set the stage for what would become a whirlwind journey for Sheppard as they rose to fame in their own right.
6. Their Second Album Was Inspired by Personal Struggles
Sheppard’s second album, Watching the Sky, marked a shift in their music, with many of the songs being more introspective and personal. During the writing and recording process, the band members were dealing with significant personal challenges, including breakups, anxiety, and the pressures of success. This album allowed them to channel those emotions into their music, giving it a more mature and reflective tone compared to their earlier work.
7. George Sheppard Was Once Afraid of Performing Live
Despite being the lead vocalist of the band, George Sheppard was once terrified of performing live. In fact, he’s admitted that he suffered from extreme stage fright during Sheppard’s early days. With time, experience, and the support of his siblings, George overcame his fear and is now a confident and dynamic performer. His journey from nervous beginner to seasoned frontman is one of personal growth and resilience.
8. The Sheppard Family Has Musical Roots
Music runs deep in the Sheppard family. The siblings’ mother is a former opera singer, which meant they grew up in a household filled with music. The family’s diverse musical background influenced Sheppard’s sound, with elements of classical, pop, and indie rock blending together to create the band’s unique style. It’s no surprise that they chose to pursue music as a career, given how integral it was to their upbringing.
9. The Band Is Also a Family Business
Sheppard is truly a family affair—not just on stage but behind the scenes as well. The band’s father, Greg Sheppard, acts as their manager, and their mother, Linda Sheppard, is also heavily involved in the band’s business operations. The close-knit family dynamic has been one of their greatest strengths, allowing them to navigate the challenges of the music industry with a strong support system.
10. They Wrote a Song for Eurovision
Sheppard nearly represented Australia in the Eurovision Song Contest in 2019. They were one of the ten finalists in Australia’s national selection with their song On My Way. Although they didn’t win, the song became a fan favorite, and the experience of competing in the selection process was a highlight for the band. The competition introduced them to a broader European audience and was a thrilling step in their international career.
Sheppard’s journey is one filled with hard work, family unity, and a love for music that transcends genres. From setting world records to advocating for important causes, they’ve made their mark not just in the pop music world, but also in the lives of their fans. With a combination of infectious music and heartfelt messages, Sheppard continues to inspire audiences worldwide with their story of passion, perseverance, and family ties. One of Sheppard's most meaningful lyrics comes from their breakout hit "Geronimo":
"Can you feel my love? Bombs away, bombs away!"
This line captures the essence of taking risks in life and love, boldly moving forward despite fear and uncertainty. The song is about having the courage to dive headfirst into new experiences and embrace change. It became an anthem of empowerment and resilience for many fans, symbolising the idea of letting go and living in the moment, no matter what challenges may come.