From rural Iowa fields to writing rooms in Nashville, John Hemingway’s (Iowa State 67) life has always centered on cultivating something meaningful—whether in agriculture, business or music. Now, after a successful career and a lifelong love of songwriting, Hemingway has created something special for the brotherhood that shaped him: a song honoring FarmHouse Fraternity.

Roots in Faith, Family and Music

Hemingway grew up on a family farm just outside West Branch, Iowa, where music was woven into daily life as naturally as chores. His mother played piano and clarinet, his father fiddle and accordion, and all three Hemingway sons took piano lessons. Music wasn’t just performance—it was part of their family rhythm.

As a student, Hemingway played in marching bands, jazz ensembles, orchestras and even dance bands that performed across central Iowa. 

“Music was always something I carried with me,” he shared.

A Brotherhood of Support

When Hemingway arrived at Iowa State University, he pledged FarmHouse during his sophomore year. Soon after, his father passed away unexpectedly—and his brothers stepped in.

“If it wasn’t for the support of my pledge brothers, some upperclassmen, and a few faculty members who were FarmHouse alumni, I’m not sure how things might have turned out,” he said.

The Fraternity wasn’t just a house or an organization—it became his family, helping him steady his academics, rebuild confidence and find direction. Those relationships, he says, formed the roots of the values he carried into every part of his life.

A Second Act in Nashville

In 2015 following retirement, Hemingway decided to pursue a lifelong dream and moved to Nashville to focus on songwriting. He joined the Nashville Songwriters Association—one of the most creative hubs of songwriting talent in the world—and began co-writing with nearly 100 fellow musicians.

“Songwriting is speculative and collaborative,” he said. 

One of the songs that grew from his writing is for the brotherhood who stood beside him when life was hardest: FarmHouse Fraternity.

A Song for FarmHouse

Hemingway’s tribute song captures what many members know to be true—FarmHouse is built on shared values, enduring friendships and the commitment to build men of character.

The song honors our founders, celebrates our shared mission and reflects the enduring brotherhood that ties generations of members together.

Hemingway’s song is a reminder that while careers change and life moves forward, the values of FarmHouse stay with us—shaping the men we become, the choices we make and the communities we build.