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John Ford Coley – singer, guitarist, classically trained pianist, actor, and author. Most revered as half of the Grammy nominated duo, England Dan and John Ford Coley. John has created hits like “Love Is The Answer”, “Gone Too Far”, “I’d Really Love To See You Tonight”, “We’ll Never Have To Say Goodbye Again”, “Nights Are Forever Without You”, and “Sad To Belong”.
The Early Years
Born in Dallas, Texas, John grew up listening to the Grand Ole Opry and early rock and roll music. He also grew up singing church hymns and learning to play classical piano. When he was just 16 years old, he and schoolmate Dan Seals, joined the group Theze Few. Later, the band became Southwest F.O.B. and toured the Texas music scene. They had one hit in ’69, “The Smell of Incense” and soon the band got to play on stage with Led Zeppelin and other acts.
The formation of England Dan and John Ford Coley
Later becoming England Dan & John Ford Coley, the duo was signed and their first break came in ’72 with the song “Simone”. After three albums they released the song “I’d Really Love to See You Tonight” and had four top ten hits and two top-twenty hits. Nominated for a Grammy Award, they received triple-platinum and gold records and released eight albums before disbanding in 1980.
Love to See You Tonight
The Duo Splits
John Ford Coley formed another group – Leslie, Kelly and John Ford Coley (with sisters Leslie and Kelly Bulkin). He also acted in films in the ’80s, and wrote songs for tv and film. He performed with artists including Ambrosia, Three Dog Night, Lou Gramm (of Foreigner), Christopher Cross, Poco, Stephen Bishop, Al Stewart, and Edgar Winter.
What became of Dan Seals?
Meanwhile, Dan Seals re-established himself as a country artist in the ’80s. Born in McCamey, TX, in ’48, Dan learned to play upright bass at age four and soon after, he was playing in the family band founded by his father. His older brother, Jim Seals, enjoyed a considerable career of his own as a member of The Champs from 1958 through the mid-’60s. His other brother is successful country musician Eddie Seals (of Eddie & Joe). Sadly, Dan passed away in 2009.
John Ford Coley Continues Today
In 1999, John moved to Tennessee and today still performs on stages around the world. You can check out his schedule at https://johnfordcoley.com/
