Stage Name: John Victor

Birth Name: John Bartagok

Genre: African Traditional • Sudanese Music • South Sudanese Music • Afro-Jazz • World Music • Reggae • Gospel

Label: Konde Visions Inc.

Origin: South Sudan

Current Base: Buffalo, New York, USA

John Barfagok is a respected South Sudanese guitarist, singer, arranger, and multi-instrumentalist based in Buffalo, New York. Known for his distinctive guitar style and deep connection to African musical traditions, he has spent decades contributing to the music scenes of South Sudan, Sudan, Ethiopia, and the United States.

Currently affiliated with Konde Visions, Inc., John continues promoting African culture and live musicianship through performance, recording, and international collaboration.

Throughout his career, John founded and collaborated with influential groups including Zanda Jazz, Des Majos, and later DIVI ROMI BAND in the United States.

Amid political instability and conflict, John fled Sudan on foot with a group of friends, enduring extreme conditions before arriving safely in Ethiopia. Despite these hardships, he continued pursuing music professionally, performing with respected Ethiopian artists such as Mohamed Tolon, Safar Nagash, and Fikr Addis.

After settling in the United States, John continued building his musical legacy by performing with international artists including Nigerian musician Alpha Bi and Kule Dube, daughter of South African reggae legend Lucky Dube.

In 1998, he founded DIVI ROMI BAND, named after the initials of his children. Through the group, he released singles and music videos while continuing to perform at festivals, cultural events, bars, and private functions throughout the Buffalo area.

Born in South Sudan into a musically rooted family, John began his musical journey at the age of ten when his grandfather introduced him to the traditional Marimba instrument. He later learned to play the Bolimbo and Adongo before relocating to Khartoum, Sudan, where he was exposed to a wide range of Sudanese rhythms and musical traditions that would shape his artistic identity.

In 1970, John formally studied music theory with the police musical division in Khartoum, specializing as a trumpet player. His discipline and versatility earned him recognition and promotion while opening doors to perform alongside legendary Sudanese artists including Mohamed Wardi, Sayed Khalifa, Kamal Kella, and Al Balabil.

Early Life and Musical Foundations

Career and International Journey

Artistic Identity

John Barfagok’s music reflects resilience, cultural preservation, spirituality, and African identity. His lifelong dedication to preserving and sharing African music continues to inspire audiences across generations and cultures.

Available For

Live Performances • Festivals • Cultural Events • Private Events • Collaborations • Recording Sessions