John Williamson - a man, a singer, a Country Legend
‘Mallee Boy’, ‘True Blue’ or just plain ‘Fair Dinkum’, whatever his name - there is no denying that after 40 years in the music industry, John Williamson has become a quintessential Australian icon.
Three ARIA Awards, 24 Golden Guitars, MO Awards, APRA Awards, Platinum and Gold albums, over 4 million album sales later, Williamson has time and time again been honoured at the great Tamworth Country Music festival, likely one of the best celebrations of country music in the world. And this year, John Williamson celebrates yet another milestone - a significant achievement in the entertainment industry - 40 years of raging success, chart topping hits and notoriety - four decades of sharing his love of Australia and poetry in song with his adoring audience.
It was June 4th 1970 that John Williamson first made his debut. On the talent quest TV show, 'New Faces', Williamson competed with his self penned and still much loved “silly song” 'Old Man Emu'. He won, and since then has inspired pride in the great Red Country, a true love of the land that has touched millions of fans. He is ingrained in Australia’s culture and way of life - there's nothing like a rousing rendition of 'True Blue' being played at weddings and celebrations throughout the country.
His latest album, 40 Years True Blue, is holding strong on the country music charts, at number 3 behind Taylor Swift and Alan Jackson in the first week of May. The album features some of Williamson's much loved favourites, you'll find classics from Rip Rip Woodchip to the must-know and love Aussie True Blue. At 65, Williamson's certainly not slowing down. He's been delighting fans with notable appearances across the country including the recent Urban Country Music Festival at Caboolture.
