Biography
Eric Bogle is a Scottish-born folk singer/songwriter, who kicked off his musical career at the age of 18, when he joined a local rock band called The Informers. A couple of years later, he turned his attention to folk music, and soon this interest turned into a passion which he pursued professionally once emigrating to Australia in 1969.
Bogle has written songs that have become Australian classics, covering a wide range of subjects and themes. He is best known for his songs And The Band Played Waltzing Matilda, which was named as one of the APRA Top 30 Australian songs in 2001, and No Man’s Land (aka The Green Fields Of France). His extensive catalogue also includes comedic, satirical and protest songs, as well as serious songs about the human condition, which have been recorded by the likes of Joan Baez, Mary Black, Donovan, Slim Dusty, John Williamson, Billy Bragg, The Pogues and The Furies, and many more.
Bogle has recorded 15 records independently, together with John Munro, and has toured extensively over the last 25 years or so, including eight tours of North America, ten across Europe and regular tours around Australia, including festivals Port Fairy Folk Festival, Woodford Folk Festival, Tamworth Country Music Festival and Gympie Music Muster amongst others.
In 1987, Eric Bogle was appointed a Member of the Order of Australia in recognition of his service to the performing arts as a songwriter and singer. He was also awarded a peace medal from the U.N. for his efforts to promote peace and racial harmony through his music.