John Mellencamp

John Mellencamp (born 7 October 1951 in Seymour, Indiana) is an American singer and songwriter, known for a long and successful recording and performing career highlighted by a series of 1980s hits, including "Jack and Diane", and by his role in the Farm Aid charity event. Mellencamp lives in Bloomington, Indiana, and is married to former supermodel Elaine Irwin Mellencamp.

John's first record released was under the stage name "Johnny Cougar" at the behest of Tony DeFries, his first manager. Mellencamp claims it was against his knowledge and will, and he hated the name. A few years later in 1982, he made his break through with the album "American Fool" which includes his hit single "Jack and Diane" under the stage name "John Cougar Mellencamp". The story of that couple was years later continued with the song "Eden Is Burning" (1998), where Jack and Diane separate. He soon dropped "Cougar" moniker altogether, and has been known henceforth as "John Mellencamp".

Mellencamp has always been socially and politically active and supported the "Vote for Change" Tour in 2004 opposing the policies of President George W. Bush.

Mellencamp's new album Freedom's Road came out January 23rd and went to no 5 in the American Billboard charts.