First Recorded Version of Waltzing Matilda Original Words of Waltzing Matilda Sung

The first known recording of Waltzing Matilda was made in 1926 in London, England by a singer named John Collinson. While it can be recognized as Waltzing Matilda, this version is of the song is different from the one we are familiar with today. There is a subtle but noticeable difference in the words and melody.

John Collinson

The recording was made on an old-fashioned wax recording disc which had a maximum recording time of about two and a half minutes. It almost seems like the singer was rushing through the song to make sure it all fitted on the recording.

The Story of Waltzing Matilda - Australia's Favourite Song