Dr John Cooper Clarke

Literary phenomenon John Cooper Clarke is a British cult hero. Known as the
‘Godfather of Punk Poetry” and the original people’s poet, John’s cultural influence
spans literature, music and fashion. From creating some of the most iconic poetry of the
modern era, including the world's most popular wedding poem “I Wanna Be Yours” (
recently celebrating over a billion streams in its incarnation as a hit record by the Arctic
Monkeys) to sharing his life story through his 120k selling memoir of the same name.
John is referenced as a major influence not just by the Arctic Monkeys but also by
artists across the globe… As well as musicians like Alex Turner, The Sleaford Mods and
Plan B, his legendary number “Evidently Chickentown” plays out the penultimate
episode of The Sopranos. Watching John Cooper Clarke perform is an opportunity to
see a living legend at the top of his game.

Doctor John Cooper Clarke shot to prominence in the 1970s. Captivating audiences
with his unique poetry and delivery style, he clawed his way up from working mens
clubs and cabaret venues in his native Salford and Manchester, to become one of the
most prolific figures in punk.

John’s early live shows were renowned occasions, and headline gigs were supported by
many soon-to-be superstars including Joy Division, New Order and Duran Duran, as
well as playing as special guest on shows by the Sex Pistols, Buzzcocks and The
Clash.

After the release of his seminal album on CBS “Snap, Crackle and Bop” where John’s
poems were put to music by the legendary music producer Martin Hannett, he was
firmly established as one of the most important artists of the Punk era. His recorded
album was followed by the release of his first collection 10 Years in an Open Necked
Shirt. The book is one of the best-selling poetry anthologies ever in the UK, Canada and
Australia.

As relevant and vibrant as ever, John Cooper Clarke’s influence is just as visible in
contemporary pop culture, with his trademark ‘look’ resonating with fashion-conscious
individuals across all demographics and his poetry features in the UK national
curriculum syllabus. Having had a groundbreaking effect on modern music, his influence
can be heard within the social observations of the Arctic Monkeys, amongst many
others.

John's 2018 poetry collection The Luckiest Guy Alive featured 30 new poems and his
long-awaited 2020 autobiography I Wanna Be Yours is a groundbreaking piece of
literature and a “riveting memoir”.


His sense of humor resounds throughout his career, and his latest live show is a mix of
classic verse, new material, hilarious ponderings on modern life, good honest gags, riffs
and chat.

In 2024 John will be celebrating his 75th birthday with a new live tour of the UK’s major
cities including a show at the London Palladium as well as at the Lowry Theatre in his
native Salford. It’s a chance to see one of the world’s most important and entertaining
spoken word artists at his bold and brilliant best.