US star John Mellencamp today landed the prestigious title of Classic Songwriter at the 2008 Q Awards with Russian Standard Vodka.
The artist formerly known as Johnny Cougar – who celebrates his 57th birthday tomorrow (Tuesday) – is best known for his top 30 hit Jack And Diane and has scored a string of US hits over a 30-year period. They include the huge single Hurts So Good.
Collecting his award, Mellencamp told guests: “I wrote that song 30 years ago that Jack and Diane song and people are still playing it. The whole thing about being a songwriter is to show some humility when you are writing a song you want something that goes into people’s hearts … I’m still hoping to write that song.”
Last year the title was won by Billy Bragg.
Posted by Anthony Barnes at 1:46 PM | 06/10/2008 | 5 Comments
This award is very well deserved, although John Mellencamp has written many great songs that are much better than the ones for which he is best known here in the UK. It's a real shame, actually, that his work is not better appreciated on this side of the Atlantic. I am Australian and he is a massive star there (as he is in the USA, of course). Indeed, his first Number One hit was in Australia, for 'I Need A Lover'. His tour there (with Sheryl Crow) this Spring looks really exciting. On the back of his recognition at the Q Awards, hopefully he will tour the UK or Europe some time very soon.
Posted by Alex at 8:22 AM | 07/10/2008 | Report Abuse
The most consistent singer/songwriter in 25yrs if you ask me! John never has had the recognition in the UK that he deserves.This man and his songs go un-noticed and are never played on national radio very much.To much red tape and music company "say so" I think.When his albums are released why is no airplay given, the man is just as brilliantly talented as Bruce who I also like,but never given any airtime, Bruce has no trouble. John is brilliant at writing top 40 stuff along with dealing with social issues.John Mellencamp is great,people who read this please listen to Scarecow,Lonesome Jubilee,Human Wheels,the list is endless, Freedom,s Road, Life Death Love and Freedom, all amazing stuff. John rocked 25-30 yrs ago but as he has aged his songwriting is more unique and mature.Give him the chance and give him the listen,you,ll see what I mean.Thanks Q for giving John the award, and John give the UK the live stuff, I have not seen you since 92.
Posted by Bren at11:35 AM | 07/10/2008 | Report Abuse
Ohh sorry John, happy birthday mate! (7 Oct)
Posted by Bren at12:03 PM | 07/10/2008 | Report Abuse
Just buy words and music and you'll realize how many tracks you recognize ....
Been a fan for years,never lets you down songs stand up to repeated plays for years to come,have got a lot of friends in to Johns music over the years,any fan of Americana or just great songwriting will love him.
Also put James Mcmurtry on the map :)
Posted by Scott Barrance at11:03 PM | 07/10/2008 | Report Abuse
Totally agree with you Scott, words and music a great compilation,my grown up kids and friends love John,I just think he deserves more congratulations and respect from the Music Radio Industry in the UK.The man is a genius.
Posted by Bren at 7:43 AM | 08/10/2008 | Report Abuse
US star John Mellencamp today landed the prestigious title of Classic Songwriter at the 2008 Q Awards with Russian Standard Vodka.
