Reclusive Rodriguez sells out Kings Park
Absence makes the heart grow fonder - and sells tickets, if Rodriguez's gig at Kings Park on November 7 is anything to go by.
The elusive Detroit-born singer-songwriter's first Perth gig in 25 years has sold out.
Promoters Mellen Events have declared it the fastest selling concert at Kings Park ever and added a second show at the same venue on November 9.
Renewed interest in Rodriguez, whose real name is Sixto Rodriguez, was drummed up when his unique story was made into the Oscar-winning documentary, Searching for Sugar Man.
The 2012 film tells how his early studio albums went unnoticed in the US, but earned him folk-rock stardom in South Africa.
Unaware of his fame there, Rodriguez quit music to focus on completing a bachelor's degree in philosophy from Wayne State University, running for political office and working in construction jobs to support his family.
While he toured Australia and New Zealand in the 1970s, fans in South Africa mistakenly believed he had died.
Rodriguez belatedly visited South Africa in 1998 on the Dead Men Don't Tour, leading to the rekindling of his music career.
Now well and truly returned to the touring circuit, the 72-year-old played east coast festivals and concerts in 2007 and 2010.
Tickets for the November 9 show at Kings Park are on sale now from Ticketmaster.
