Technical issues disrupt Mike Brady's AFL Grand Final performance at the MCG
Audio problems during Up There Cazaly drew sympathy as the veteran songwriter pressed on before a 100,000-strong crowd
An audio error disrupted the pre-game entertainment at the AFL Grand Final at the Melbourne Cricket Ground on Saturday, Sept. 27, 2025, when veteran singer Mike Brady performed Up There Cazaly. Brady, who is 77, pressed on in front of more than 100,000 spectators as the track faltered mid-chorus, leaving some fans calling out for better sound while others offered support for the performer.
Spectators online noted the sound issue and expressed sympathy for Brady, a fixture in Australian football culture whose voice has long been associated with the competition. While the technical glitch robbed portions of the performance of its full effect, Brady continued with the rendition, earning praise from some observers for handling an awkward moment with composure. The incident underscored the fragility of live-sound setups in large venues and the pressure on performers to deliver despite equipment failures.
Brady co-wrote Up There Cazaly in 1978, an anthem that became a staple of Australian football culture. At the time it topped the Australian charts and, decades later, remains a widely embraced touchstone for fans. The song’s enduring popularity has linked Brady forever to the sport, and the moment at the MCG was a reminder of the long arc of his contribution.
Ahead of the clash between Brisbane and Geelong, Brady spoke of his honor at being asked to sing at the Grand Final again. He noted that it had been 46 years since his first performance at the MCG and said the moment still gives him a physical jolt as he steps into the arena amid the roar of the massive crowd. The veteran songwriter’s appearance was part of a broader ceremony that blends historical football nostalgia with the modern spectacle of the AFL Grand Final.
The match itself, pitted between two teams with storied histories in the league, continued after the interim entertainment hiccup. The episode did not appear to derail the overall mood or the attention on the game, which remained the central focus for fans in attendance and viewers at home. Still, the audio glitch generated discussion across social channels, highlighting how even long-standing, iconic performances can be vulnerable to technical issues on one of sport’s biggest stages.
In the weeks leading up to the event, organizers and broadcasters had highlighted the importance of a seamless Grand Final experience. The Brady moment served as a case study in how live performances—especially those tied to a long legacy—must balance tradition with the realities of modern production. While some fans felt the sound problems should have been resolved more cleanly, others emphasized Brady’s professionalism and resilience, praising him for delivering under challenging conditions.
The AFL Grand Final remains the culmination of Australia’s football season, drawing a worldwide audience and a spotlight on the music that frames the sport’s rituals. Brady’s contribution—paired with the evening’s high-stakes football—will likely be remembered as a reminder of the event’s blend of cultural history and contemporary production demands. As the league continues to evolve, moments like this underscore the ongoing importance of flawless show elements, while also underscoring the human element at the heart of live sport and live music.