I was walking toward Bondi Beach, camera never far from reach, when I noticed a very recognisable figure heading in the opposite direction toward Bronte.
It was none other than Richard Marx.
Yes — the voice behind “Right Here Waiting,” “Hazard,” and “Endless Summer Nights.” The soundtrack to countless 80s and 90s love stories.
And there he was, casually strolling along Sydney’s most iconic coastal path — shirtless, relaxed, and looking incredibly fit. At 62, he radiated that effortless confidence that comes from longevity in both life and music. Let’s just say, Bondi has competition.
Naturally, I introduced myself.
As a photographer, author, and founder of World Letter Writing Day, I’ve always believed in the power of human connection — and this felt like one of those serendipitous moments. Richard was warm, open and gracious. We stopped for a photo, the ocean shimmering behind us.
During our conversation, I shared something personal. I told him I had been friends with Michael Hutchence, and that back in the 90s I had spoken with Michael about Richard Marx. When I mentioned this, he seemed genuinely touched — grateful and reflective. It was a quiet but meaningful exchange, a reminder of how interconnected the music world truly is.
Of course, Australian audiences also recently saw him in a different light — as a judge on The Voice Australia last year — embracing a new generation of talent while remaining firmly etched in pop history.
What struck me most was how natural it all felt. No entourage. No fuss. Just two people crossing paths on a sunlit coastal walk, sharing stories about music, memories and mutual connections.
It was one of those beautifully unscripted Eastern Suburbs moments — the kind that reminds you to always look up, always say hello, and always carry a camera to capture those very special moments which are unique to the Eastern Suburbs.
Because sometimes, somewhere between Bondi and Bronte, life delivers its own endless summer night.
— Richard Simpkin
Café Pli, A Paris Café Where You Can Write a Letter to Your Future Self
