John Stokes’ music has been characterised with deep, rich acoustic sounds, enhanced by a distinctive use of alternate tunings that create a unique and compelling sonic landscape.
The vast and varied Australian country landscape and connection with the people are a constant source of profound inspiration. Far from his small-farm beginnings in a country community, John has spent his life travelling the vast Australian landscape. His music is grounded in experiences of shearing sheep, cropping, mustering stock, flying crop dusters, racing motorcycles and rodeo. Having worked and lived on the land, sharing experiences of good and hard times, John Stokes cements himself as a voice carved from the grit and rhythm of real life. His poignant stories and rugged vocal speak with an earned authenticity - because for John, the work doesn’t stop when the day ends - it just changes shape.
Compositions are steeped in heartfelt emotion, drawing listeners into a world shaped by the influences of Folk, Country, Blues, Rock and Appalachian. While his sound straddles these genres, Alt Country remains the most fitting description, encapsulating the fusion of traditions and personal storytelling that define his music.
A multi instrumentalist with a history from working with other musicians in bands, supporting other artists, playing in clubs, hotels and festivals throughout Australia to now as an established singer songwriter.
With a recent album produced and recorded by renowned Australian artist and producer Shane Nicholson, the album combines story telling with accompanying artists and instruments bringing some of the music into a distinctive sonic format. This has brought in a new dimension and a vibe of what the future holds.
In November 2025 ‘Crumbling Down’ was released as a single off the album and has gained momentum with radio airplays nationally, play listed and made Country Towns top 50 soon after it’s release.
Another single ‘The Catch’ - the new albums title, was released April 2026, also airing on national radio rotation, making it’s way into the AMRAP charts along with the album play listed on ABC Best New Country, Apple Music and New Oz Music.
Never one to sit around - writing and recording is well underway for the next album which is scheduled for release in 2027 !