John Edmond

During his lifetime, this incredibly talented individual that was born in Northern Rhodesia – Africa now known as Zambia, went to school there, in Scotland and South Africa. After school he was a soldier during the Congo tragedy and the Rhodesian Bush war. He was a computer programmer, a record producer, music publisher, martial arts instructor, a farmer, a field guide and a pilot. These varied facets of his life have inspired him to write songs on so many subjects and having “walked the walk” his songs are based on true life experiences and this makes his works so unique and genuine. John has written and produced more than 50 albums. See his web site www.johnedmond.co,za More than 300 of the songs are also now documented in 2 song books; “Behind the Songs” Volumes  1 and 2.

 John’s more recent subjects of writing on epic historical happenings and events as well as human characters both high profile and unknown has kindled the interest of many youngsters and historians far and wide. His songs are laced with romance, humour, tragedy and pure facts. This colourful composer makes his creations both informative and entertaining!

In his younger days he was chosen to represent South Africa at the World Song festival in Tokyo and had 7 national hit songs in a row. This achievement has not been topped by any other artist in South Africa since.

When you mention the name John Edmond to any Rhodesian anywhere in the world, they will remember how he boosted their morale during the Rhodesian Bush war. John’s songs were taken and spread by sons of Rhodesia that went to join the military in other parts of the world and many of the local radio stations picked up on them and started airing them. Suddenly the songs have now drawn the attention of a young generation of listeners, as young as 13, from every continent around the world, but especially from the United States of America.  

Please see this excerpt from one of the hundreds of emails received from around the world. Do you have a message for John? “ I'm 16 years old and live in the US. A friend of mine loves your music and I just wanted to let you know how much your music is appreciated in teaching your history. One friend in particular (clubfoot55@gmail.com) is a massive fan of your music, and you're probably his favourite artist ever. We're also all boy scouts, which is awesome that you support the movement. That's about it, I just wanted to make sure you know that you're reaching a new generation with your art as well”

This phenomenon proves that these recordings have stood the test of time and are evergreen and still resonate with individuals and in the minds of people of all ages.  

This interesting man, “Song-painter Extraordinaire” is….. John Edmond!