PRODUCERS & ENGINEERS 1964-75

In 1963, Martin opened his own record shop at Rocky Point Rd, Ramsgate, also naming it World of Sound. He later rebuilt his studio adjoining the store. By this time his equipment had grown to a stereo two track valve Revox and another couple of mics, and he continued making demo tapes for Sydney bands and songwriters.

By 1969 the World of Sound Record Shop had become widely known for it's service and Martin devoted more time to his recording studio, setting up the Du Monde record label, which has now become a legend in the Australian music archives. Looking for artists to record on his new label and now armed with a 4 track valve recorder, two Revox machines, more mics plus a proper mixing desk, Martin recorded demo tapes for over a hundred and fifty bands via a promotion with Sydney radio station 2UW, the 'New-UW New Sounds of 69.' The best of these tapes were played every Friday afternoon on 2UW by Ward 'Pally' Austin and culminated a year later in an all day concert at Sydney Showground.

Early releases on the Du Monde label were by Aussie bands and singers including Flake, King Fox, The Clik (featuring future Sebastian Hardie guitarist Mario Millo), McPhee, Samael Lillith, Clapham Junction, Donnie Sutherland, The '69ers, Elm Tree, Harry Young & Sabbath, Galadriel and many, many more. Whenever possible, Martin favoured recording original songs and most artists were inspired to write for the recording session - and many came out with great songs - King Fox 'Unforgotten Dreams', Harry Young & Sabbath's The Wheat in the Field' and McPhee's Sunday Shuffle.

After 10 years in retail at Ramsgate Martin sold the shop and his recording equipment (keeping the names World of Sound & Du Monde Records) and in 1973 took up a position as a staff producer with Festival Records. During his time with Festival, Martin worked with a wide variety of local talent and produced dozens of notable singles and albums. He produced Australia's first ever million-selling single, which went gold in the USA and Australia -- the rock version of The Lord's Prayer by Adelaide's Sister Janet Mead. Martin also recorded Peter Allen's original version of 'I Still Call Australia Home' and was responsible for recording many live albums at the Sydney Opera House, including the Rolf Harris concert in September 1973 which was the first variety concert held in the new Concert Hall.

Martin, with co-writer & director Stewart Smith, produced a children's theatrical event 'The Adventures of Iskybibble' which had it's premier season at the Sydney Opera House in 1975. Martin produced the Gold Award album by John Waters & Jackie Weaver of songs from the show 'They're Playing Our Song', and the 1982 Australian Cast record album of the Rocky Horror Show. He won a Gold Guitar for Queensland band Buckskin at the Tamworth Country Music Awards in 1980 by producing their original instrumental 'Panning For Gold' , and has many other awards to his credit.

In 1999 at the age of 62, Martin still had the music bug buried deep inside. During his entire career he has always worked exclusively with Australian and New Zealand artists, and whenever possible has always promoted Aussie music. With the creation of his 'Ozzie Songs & Music' (a registered Australian business name) Martin is exploring the benefits of publicising and promoting Ozzie songs & music via the Internet.

Setting up ozsongs.com.au seemed a logical next step. He hopes that his new Internet site will assist Australian artists and songwriters (who often have difficulty in gaining recognition) by opening new markets around the world to sell their music.

For further information contact Martin by

e-mail: martin@ozsongs.com.au

or phone Sydney (02) 9979 7705

(from outside Australia dial +61 2 9979 7705)

KNOWN PRODUCTION / ENGINEERING CREDITS: