Mark Williams' story is one of resilience and persistence in an ever-changing music industry.  His 50+ year career is a testament to the fact that dedication, hard-work and versatility will never slow you down as an artist - no matter how many highs and lows are along the way.

 

From his early success in New Zealand, being the first Kiwi artist to reach #1 on the Aotearoa charts with his massive hits ‘Yesterday Was Just The Beginning Of My Life’ (1975) and ‘It Doesn’t Matter Anymore’ (1977), along with three studio albums (Mark Williams [1975], Sweet Trials [1976], and Taking It All In Stride [1977]), Williams faced the daunting task of moving over to Australia in the late 70s.  

 

Along with the underachieving commercial success of his 1978 Australian debut album Life After Dark, Williams initially faced challenges acclimatising to the Australian lifestyle and music scene.  However, his courage, professionalism, and his determination to build his musicianship and name in the scene gave him an edge that was soon enough recognised throughout the Australian industry.  He became a sought-after session and live musician in the 80s, working with prominent artists and bands in Australia such as Renee Geyer, Tim Finn, Jenny Morris, Ian Moss, The Church, Rockmelons, The Eurogliders, Margaret Urlich and Sharon O'Neil and more. During this time, he also formed a short-lived band, Boy Rocking, with guitarist Mark Punch.

 

It was while touring the ‘Matchbook' album with Ian Moss that Williams' work with Alberts Productions (Vanda/Young) in the late 80s would mark a significant turning point in his career.  The success of ‘Show No Mercy’ (1990), voicing the original ‘Home & Away’ theme song with Karen Boddington (1988), and recording the successful ‘Time After Time’ cover with Tara Morice for Baz Luhrmann’s Strictly Ballroom soundtrack (1993), showcased Williams’ versatility and adaptability while maintaining his unique voice and style.

 

His emotional performance at Marc Hunter’s memorial in 1998 led to his subsequent role as the frontman of AU/NZ’s legendary band Dragon.  Since joining Dragon the band has released six studio albums/EPs and has been steadily touring for two decades since 2005.

 

Mark Williams' journey, filled with highs and lows, is a powerful example of perseverance.  Now, after almost 30 years, Williams’ solo career has been recognised again and revived after his opening act for Boney M during their sold out 2024 AU/NZ tour was extremely well-received.  Williams is currently celebrating his 50 year career and journey with the ‘Now and Then’ live concert series, which has already begun in Sydney and New Zealand.  This will continue, extending his lasting impact on the music scene.