Jon English makes a triumphant comeback with three new releases

A significant moment in Jon English’s legacy is marked by the release of three major albums that celebrate his extraordinary career as an Australian singer, actor, and stage icon.

Throughout his career spanning over four decades, Jon English made a lasting impact on Australia’s music and theatre scene. Known not only for his singing but also for his dynamic presence on stage and screen, English cemented his place as one of the country’s most enduring performers. Ten years after his passing, in 2026, his remarkable body of work is being recognized with the release of three crucial albums that showcase the depth of his artistry and influence.

Leading the pack is “Rarities,” a newly remastered compilation sourced from the archives, featuring demos, B-sides, live recordings, soundtrack contributions, and forgotten singles. This release provides a unique insight into English’s creative process, offering a glimpse of the raw and unfiltered energy he brought to every project with dedication and passion.

Accompanying this is “Jokers and Queens,” the acclaimed duet album with Marcia Hines that captures the magic of their collaboration from the early 1980s. Originally recorded decades ago, this album highlights the seamless chemistry between two powerhouse performers, now made available digitally for the first time across streaming platforms, iTunes, and Compact Discs.

Rounding off the trio is a revamped edition of “Six Ribbons – The Ultimate Collection,” a comprehensive 2CD set featuring 35 tracks that span English’s most iconic recordings. From heartfelt ballads to electrifying rock anthems, this album encapsulates the songs that defined his career, showcasing a voice capable of conveying both delicate emotion and powerful intensity.

Jon English’s journey began in 1949 in Hampstead, London, moving to Australia with his family at the age of 12 and settling in Cabramatta. Influenced by his father’s musical talents and inspired by the Beatles’ tour of Australia, he delved into the world of music by performing with local bands such as Zenith and Gene Chandler & the Interns. Joining Sebastian Hardie in 1967, English explored R&B, soul, and pop music in Sydney’s pub scene, eventually becoming Johnny O’Keefe’s backing band.

In 1972, English catapulted to fame with his portrayal of Judas in the Australian production of Jesus Christ Superstar. At just 22 years old, he became a household name, touring extensively and making his mark on the original cast recording. His debut solo album “Wine Dark Sea” followed in 1973, featuring the hit single “Handbags and Gladrags,” solidifying his place as a versatile singer blending rock sensibilities with theatrical flair.

Throughout the 1970s and 1980s, English juggled recording with stage and screen roles, releasing albums like “It’s All A Game,” “Hollywood Seven,” and “Minutes to Midnight” that spawned chart-topping hits. Recognized with an ARIA Award for Best Male Vocal Performance and multiple RAM magazine accolades, English also shined in television roles and miniseries, earning accolades for his work on the international hit “Six Ribbons.”

Expanding his career globally in the 1980s with albums like “Calm Before the Storm” and “In Roads,” and collaborating with Marcia Hines on “Jokers and Queens,” English solidified his reputation as a premier entertainer, winning multiple Mo Awards and Green Room Awards for his contributions to both music and theater.

Into the 1990s and 2000s, English continued to showcase his versatility through television, stage musicals, the rock revue “The Rock Show,” and revivals of his rock opera “Paris.” He remained active in mentoring and music education until his passing in 2016, leaving an indelible mark on Australia’s music and theatre landscape.

Robert Rigby, Managing Director of Ambition Music, hailed English as an exceptional talent who sold over three million albums, earning him a rightful place in the ARIA Hall of Fame. The release of these three albums on Friday, March 27, 2026, offers both longtime fans and new listeners a chance to rediscover and celebrate Jon English’s unparalleled contributions to Australian music and theatre.