The Big Red - The Album

Warner Music Australia is pleased to announce that iconic Australian music legend, John Williamson's The Big Red, a twelve track studio album, was released nationally on Friday 27th January 2012.

The recording comprises material penned by the modern day poet over the past three years and contains quintessential 'Willo' sounds, with images that capture the country in song, inspirational songs of mateship and romantic ballads that touch the heart.

Released through his recent signing with Warner Music Australia, the album is reflective of the multi-award winning artist's passion for his craft. It reminds all as to why he has remained a success for more than forty years, with tracks on the CD sure to become favourites for all Australians domestically or a treasured keepsake for those overseas.

The first single 'Hang My Hat In Queensland' is pure poetry; an autobiographical account of Williamson's life. Everything from his birth in the Mallee district of Victoria through to moving to Sydney from his family's farm in Moree after winning television's 'New Faces' with his song 'Old Man Emu'. The lyrics encapsulate his story in music.

Never one to shy away from his truth, Williamson follows it up with 'Movie Star', a song paying tribute to those who have succeeded but feel they have never reached what they consider the top. 'Rescue Me' simply touches the heart and is a piece of perfection that will resonate and bring tears to the eyes of many.

John and Meg at the 2012 Golden Guitar Awards, walking the red carpet. Meg was dressed by Carla Zampatti and got the big thumbs up on her style. (www.carlazampatti.com.au) John performed PRAIRIE HOTEL PARACHILA at the awards from his new album THE BIG RED and everyone is still raving about his performance!

Add to this 'Mates Around The Fire' which will appeal to all who identify with Williamson's recurring theme of mateship mixed with the outback. 'The Weight Of A Man', is a song written by Russell Crowe that Williamson has made his own, whilst showcasing the musicality of the Hollywood superstar. There are twelve tracks on this release, not one that doesn't stand up to the quality that the iconic songwriter is known for. Each one is crafted perfectly and sure to become chants, wedding first dance tracks or songs to belt out amongst friends and family around the fire, lounge room or penthouse apartment. That's the thing about Williamson; he doesn't fit one genre or style. He is for all Australians and The Big Red backs this up with his unique ability to paint the country and Australian style and character onto a canvas of song like no other. Inducted into the ARIA Hall of Fame in 2010 and the recipient of more awards than he cares to mention, there is no question that John Williamson is the real deal. He stands by what he represents and is unashamedly proud of the country he loves. For this artist, whilst the awards are a nice recognition, there is no doubt it is the reaction from his audience that is most important. 'At last The Big Red is out of the box. I think those who know my music will think 'Yes! This is what we've been waiting for from Willo.' For those who don't know; clear the mind of American influences. This is purely Australian. I hope it makes you as proud as I am of the place,' said John Williamson. The Big Red is now available from our website store as well as all good music retailers. You can place your order immediately by clicking on this ORDER NOW link. We promise to service your order quickly and efficiently. For complete details of The Big Red, including the full track listing, together with information on all other John Williamson products, just visit the MERCHANDISE page and let your fingers do the work.

 
The Big Red - The Tour

The Big Red tour officially commences at the Wellington Entertainment Centre, Sale, VIC on Thursday 16th February followed by Wonthaggi, Frankston and Warragul during the same weekend. What's more, we are currently listing almost 50 confirmed John Williamson gigs, which run right up to November 2012. And there are still more to be added to the list in coming months. You can make bookings for many of them right now by clicking on this TOUR DATES link. This year, a long tradition will continue with the invitation to come and chat to John after each and every show. You will be most welcome.

The John Williamson official website has been a regular feature on the net for a long while. Over time, we have added many new pages for your interest and the following is a description of some of our most popularly used links.
TOUR DATES We regularly add new gig details to this page.
STORE Use this link to purchase any of the merchandise available from our on-line shop.
CONTACT This page details all John Williamson contact information including his fan mail addresses.
ARCHIVE This page now has four sub sections:
News: General JW news stories from the past.
Quambatook: The complete background story behind this new Australian folk musical.
True Blue Newsletters: A collection of previously published True Blue Newsletters.
NSW Variety Bash Diaries: John & Meg's blogs of their Variety Bash adventures
ABOUT JOHN This page contains a full biography of John together with many highlights of a long career including all his Golden Guitar and other awards.
PHOTOS A photo album stretching back almost 40 years.
TRUE BLUE FLAG The story behind the True Blue Australian flags.
TRUE BLUE CAUSES John Williamson is well known for his promotion of Australia, its people, its land, its flora and fauna. This page details all the organisations that John supports on an official basis.
NEWSLETTER The True Blue Newsletter is issued every few months and includes a personal letter from John together with information about past, present and future events.
There are also direct links to MySpace, Facebook and iTunes. These can be found at the top of most pages of this website.