He's the only person I know of who has had a Tribute concert in his lifetime! It was held at the National Folk Festival in 2000.

It was arranged over many months, dozens of folk were involved, it was even listed on the program ('Tribute to a folkie' or something equally innocuous) & he had no idea it was happening. He was told he was needed to accompany a friend & it was only when he arrived at the venue & saw his name on the board that he twigged.

Those in the know went around the festival telling everyone they could who was the subject of the concert, even so some friends missed out. It was a great concert.

intro to the CD - This concert was held to acknowledge the vast contribution that John has made to the present day folk tradition. His writing ranges across all the age groups, validating cultures & chronicling people & events which might have otherwise been lost. Lyndan Blackman.

'Bring out the Banners' was one of the 19 tracks, sung by the Sydney Trade Union Choir.

sandra