I’ve been incredibly fortunate to work with Blue Pie Records USA for over 17 years, and my relationship with Damien Reilly goes back even further, spanning more than three decades. From the very beginning, Damien and the team have been behind me 100%, helping me continue my music journey and build on the incredible history we’ve created together. Throughout my career, their belief in me and my music has given me the strength to keep going and push my creativity further than ever before.

Looking back, my journey has been filled with incredible highs and a few bumps along the way, but music has always been the one constant. Starting out in the early 1970s, my time with bands like Fraternity and Feather allowed me to cut my teeth on the Australian rock scene. But it wasn’t until I stepped out as a solo artist in the late ’70s that I truly found my voice. I’ll never forget the first big wave of success with my single If I Were A Carpenter in 1981, which shot to No. 5 on the charts and paved the way for my album This Time It’s Different. Tracks like Temporary Heartache and Lady What’s Your Name are still some of my most well-loved songs, and they hold a special place in my heart because they’re part of the foundation that built my career.

The 1980s were a whirlwind, with three albums in quick succession and an amazing ride with The Party Boys. Those days were filled with wild tours and unforgettable performances, and I’ll always cherish the time I spent with the guys. Our cover of He’s Gonna Step On You Again hitting No. 1 was a massive highlight for me, as was working alongside legends like Joe Walsh, Richard Clapton, and Marc Hunter. Those moments on stage and in the studio were nothing short of electric, and it felt like we were part of something really special.

But, as is often the case, the hard-partying lifestyle of rock ‘n’ roll started to take its toll. By the 1990s, I knew I had to make a change if I wanted to keep doing what I love – making music. I got sober and moved to Mt. Tamborine in Queensland, where I could focus on my health and well-being. That decision was a turning point in my life, and it allowed me to reconnect with my passion for music in a new way. I found my groove again and began working on Have A Little Faith, an album that felt like a true reflection of where I was at the time. Working with Mark Moffatt and the talented musicians in Nashville brought out a different side of me, and that record will always hold a special place in my heart.

Since then, I’ve had the honour of working on meaningful projects, like the Legends Of The Southern Land single with Ray Burgess, Tommy Emmanuel, and others. It was incredible to create a song that celebrates Australia’s rich history and the people who’ve helped shape our nation. And in 2017, being awarded the Order of Australia Medal (OAM) for my charitable work was a humbling moment. Music has given me so much, and being able to give back, especially through initiatives like the Warrior Music Project, which helps veterans and first responders, is something I’m deeply proud of.

Today, I’m as passionate as ever about making music and performing live. With Blue Pie Records and Ordior Media by my side, I’ve been able to stay true to who I am as an artist and continue to share my love for music with audiences across Australia and abroad. It’s been an amazing journey, and I’m excited about what lies ahead.

One of the most exciting projects I’m currently involved in is the Looking for Bon biopic documentary, where I’ll be narrating the story of Bon Scott’s life before AC/DC. This 10-part series, launching in 2025, dives deep into Bon’s formative years and sheds light on the untold parts of his story. Being part of this project is an incredible honour, not only because of my connection to Bon through the Australian rock scene but also because I get to help share a story that I know will resonate with so many. I can’t wait for people to experience this tribute to one of rock’s true legends.

Kate Ingham has also been tirelessly working with me on my new autobiography, which will be released in 2025. Telling my story in my own words has been a cathartic experience, and I can’t thank her enough for her dedication and belief in this project. With her help and the support of the incredible team at Blue Pie and Ordior Media, I’m confident that the next chapter of my career will be as fulfilling as the ones that came before it.

After more than 50 years in the industry, I still feel that same fire I had when I was a kid in Elizabeth, South Australia. Music is in my blood, and I’ll keep creating, performing, and sharing it with the world for as long as I can. I’m grateful for everyone who’s been part of my journey, especially Damien Reilly, Kate Ingham, and the whole team at Blue Pie Records and Ordior Media, who continue to inspire and support me. Here’s to many more years of rock ‘n’ roll and new adventures.”

John Swan (Swanee)
Inducted into the SA MUSIC HALL OF FAME March 2015
Senior South Australian of the year 2015
Order of Australia 2017
E: swanjohn001@gmail.com
W: www.johnswan.com.au
F: www.facebook.com/swanee01