For many, the 1994 Big Day Out is still regarded as the best ever.

In addition to a new stop being on the Gold Coast and Auckland (New Zealand), the music was sensationally eclectic and left-of-centre – alongside rising superstars Soundgarden and the Smashing Pumpkins, there were stunning shows by Icelandic wonder Björk and ex-Pixies bassist Kim Deal’s band with her sister, the Breeders, alongside the brilliant locals like the Cruel Sea and amazing performances by You Am I, one of the most highly touted Australian bands ever at the time.

In fact, when Russell ‘Rusty’ Hopkinson went to Kim Deal, as a fan, she responded by uttering that famous, oft-quoted statement – “Oh, you’re in that band that everyone is talking about”.

You Am I made their presence felt – whilst songs from debut Sound As Ever were familiar to most (thanks to singles like “Berlin Chair” and “Jaimmes’ Got A Gal”), their new songs were even more impressive.

They were paid the ultimate compliment after the festivals by having headliners Soundgarden ask them to come back and tour America with them. The Big Day Out was beginning to help Australian bands get international attention, but it was nothing compared to what was going to happen in 1995.

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