New Music ... "One Hundred Thousand Migrants "
A big hello to one and all of my loyal subscribers,
NEW MUSIC ALERT: One Hundred Thousand Migrants ... A TRUE STORY
This is a story song of the migrants who embarked on a journey to Australia in 1949-1960 after the second world war and how they struggled to come to terms with their new life.
How our song came to be"
It has been an amazing journey of discovery and connection that has led to the creation of our song "One Hundred Thousand Migrants." How we researched the history of The Greta Migrant Camp, on Google, connected with Alek Schulha, (The organiser of the celebration)through his daughter Alison on Facebook and eventually met over the phone and just recently in person, is truly inspiring. It's wonderful that the lyrics of this song of Marion's was recognized in the prestigious Australian Songwriting Association Awards, in the top 30 in 2023 being highly commended and played on the Australian Broadcasting Corporation is humbling.
It's heartwarming to see the support and dedication from everyone involved in celebrating the 75 years of Greta Migrant Camp especially Alek and Lee Schulha. The Camp has long gone but the memories live on in the hearts and minds of the next generations.
Johnny's parents and brother were included in the "One Hundred Thousand Migrants" that arrived at Newcastle by the General HarryTaylor Ship on 2rd February 1950 (actually Marion's birthday)then travelled by train to Greta Migrant Camp.
The fact that Johnny was born at the Greta Migrant Camp 74 years ago 8/6/1950 and that this event has coincided with his birthday, (AND he hadn't been back since), adds an even more special and personal touch to the whole experience.
Johnny walked at 9 months but unfortunately contracted Polio at the age of 13 months at the Greta Migrant Camp and spent 18 months in an Iron lung flat on his back in the Maitland hospital.NSW Then at the age of five he then spent another 18 months on a skin traction machine at a special childrens home in Sydney NSW. Johnny continued to stay there for further treatment and schooling til the age of 12. He then moved to Wagga Wagga NSW were his family lived. He finished his higher schooling then pursued his music career. Johnny has walked with the aid of crutches due to the polio leaving his right leg muscles disfunctonal, from childhood to the present day.
Despite that early set back he says he has had wonderful experiences in his life especially as an entertainer.
It's amazing how music and history can bring people together and create such meaningful connections.
I would just like to say how happy we both are for the recognition of our song, that it has received on its DEBUT and how excited and proud we were able to contribute to the special event.
It's a beautiful story of collaboration, discovery, gratitude and celebration.
Listen on Numberonemusic.com/johnnyshilo
Thank you for taking the time to engage in reading my/our story.
Til next time...take care ...cheers Johnny Shilo
