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.
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.
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.