John Cooper Clarke is a national treasure and an unrivaled global ambassador of British poetry and performance. He’s on the cusp of history as the first poet ever to top a UK arena. Clarke is well known for his incisive beat poetry and kitchen sink comedy routines. Over his remarkable 50-year career, he’s cultivated an adoring fan base and attained cult status. His poems, caught between social realism and an unbridled surrealist vision, echo loudly in people all over the world. As you can tell by his enthusiasm, Clarke is looking forward to this historic event. He’s looking forward to the 2025 Northern Music Award, which will make him inextricably known for changing the cultural landscape.
Clarke’s journey to this peak has been extraordinary. He has worked with and performed alongside many of the most legendary artists in music history. He has shared the stage with influential groups like Joy Division, the Sex Pistols, Buzzcocks, The Fall, and Elvis Costello. Taken together, these collaborations introduced the work of America’s greatest poet to millions more people. They praised his ability to transition and filter himself within the punk and post-punk movement.
His poetry has taken on a kind of cult status. Other famous poems are “Beasley Street,” “Evidently Chickentown,” “I Don’t Wanna Be Nice,” “(I Married A) Monster From Outer Space,” and “Valley of the Lost Women.” These pieces stick with readers for their unflinching truth, black humor, and ability to capture the grittiest, most terrible parts of life. And even with all his outstanding accomplishments and accolades, Clarke is, as always, too modest about his integral role in the cultural pantheon.
"Shnational shmeasure. Nah, I hate that. National treasure? Not while I'm alive. Not unless it comes with a generous stipend. Then I'll think about it." – John Cooper Clarke
As a result, Clarke’s poetic influence reaches beyond academia and into the currents of popular music. The Arctic Monkeys made him world-famous when they used his poem “I Wanna Be Yours” as lyrics for their hit 2013 album. It went on to become the most fasted streamed song of all time. As Clarke looks back on the song’s success, he’s reminded of the song and its impact on his career.
"It should have been done like Alex does it from the start," – John Cooper Clarke
"I mean, that is the definitive version. I love it." – John Cooper Clarke
His adaptation of “I Wanna Be Yours” has since delighted audiences across the world. It quickly became a favorite at weddings and other celebrations!
"I'd be a billionaire if I had a quid for every person that recited that poem at their wedding," – John Cooper Clarke
And even with all the fiscal fruits that have accompanied this success, Clarke keeps his feet planted very much on the ground.
"It adds up, and then there's the PRS" – John Cooper Clarke
"So I'm not complaining. For a change." – John Cooper Clarke
Clarke’s legacy continues to grow. He’s surprisingly vigilant though, unwilling to ride things out or get too complacent as shifting paradigms make him a cultural treasure.
"I could yet blot my copy book. I'm that foul-mouthed [person] that you've come to dredge up some grudging affection for, but I may yet do the wrong thing." – John Cooper Clarke
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