Photograph: Wolfgang Webster
“I say to people, have you heard of John Cooper Clarke and if they say, yes, yeah he’s an absolute genius and you just go, ‘oh – ok, you’ve saved me a lot of time” Steve Coogan
Dr John Cooper Clarke
POET; TV AND RADIO PRESENTER; CULTURAL COMMENTATOR;
“One of Britain’s outstanding poets”
– Sir Paul McCartney
“Fantastically entertaining. As a writer of comic prose Clarke is the match of anyone alive, and his turns of phrase are as sharp as his suits” – The Times
“An immensely entertaining memoir that fizzes with wit…It’s impossible not to hear him read every word aloud in your head with that unforgettable Manc drawl” – NME
“Riveting” -The Observer
You really need to hear John Cooper Clarke’s poems to help you understand them, which is the reason why I have included a video clip below.
John Cooper Clarke, often called the “Godfather of Punk Poetry,” is a cultural icon whose work bridges literature, music, and performance. He emerged from the punk scene of the 1970s, John Cooper Clarke captivated audiences with his rapid-fire delivery, sharp wit, and socially observant poetry. He has a distinctive style and voice that propelled him from working-class clubs in Salford to international fame.
Early Life and Rise to Fame
Born in 1949 in Salford, England, John Cooper Clarke started performing poetry in the vibrant counter-cultural environment of the 1970s. His live shows often shared stages with legendary punk bands like the Sex Pistols and Joy Division. His breakthrough album, Snap, Crackle & Bop, produced by Martin Hannett, solidified his reputation, while his poetry collection 10 Years in an Open Necked Shirt became a bestseller, transcending the punk subculture.
A Legacy in Literature and Music
John Cooper Clarke’s influence extends far beyond the punk era. His poem “Evidently Chickentown” featured in the acclaimed TV series The Sopranos, while his lyrical style inspired musicians such as the Arctic Monkeys, who adapted his poem “I Wanna Be Yours” into a popular song. His poetry is now part of the UK school curriculum, introducing new generations to his work.
Later Years and Continuing Influence
In recent years, John Cooper Clarke has remained a vibrant figure in popular culture. His 2020 autobiography, I Wanna Be Yours, provides a deeply personal and humorous account of his life and career. John Cooper Clarke has also continued to tour extensively, showcasing a mix of classic poems, new material, and comedic observations.
Celebrating 50 Years of Poetry
In 2024, John Cooper Clarke celebrates five decades in the spotlight with a UK tour, including performances in major venues such as the London Palladium and Manchester’s Co-op Live Arena. This milestone is a testament to his enduring relevance and the universal appeal of his work.
John Cooper Clarke remains a true original—a poet, performer, and provocateur who has redefined how poetry is experienced and celebrated in modern culture
#JohnCooperClarke #EvidentlyChickentown #IWannaBeYours #SnapCrackle&Bop #GodfatherOfPunkPoetry
References:
Websites:
The Guardian, Newspaper Article:
Facebook: facebook.com/johncooperclarke
Twitter: @offical_jcc
Instagram: @johncooperclarke
Rachel Bakewell 