John Cooper Clarke is set to make history as the first poet to headline a UK arena and is the genius behind the lyrics of one of the most streamed songs worldwide in recent years. Despite his success, he has retained the biting wit and rebellious spirit of his punk roots.
To many, Clarke’s 50-year career of sharp beat poetry and gritty stand-up comedy qualifies him as a national treasure, but the mere suggestion of that title irks him. “I detest that,” he retorts. “It sounds like you’re at death’s door. National treasure? Forget it. Not in this lifetime. Unless it comes with a hefty paycheck, then maybe I’ll consider it.”
With a sneer, a wink, and a burst of laughter, he dismisses the notion of being pigeonholed as a national treasure. The idea of becoming the poet laureate, with its paltry annual stipend of £70 and a barrel of sherry, doesn’t appeal to him either. “£70 and sherry? No thanks,” he scoffs.
At 76, Clarke remains defiant and refuses to conform to the idea of being a revered figure. He jokes about potentially tarnishing his reputation in the future, showing that he still revels in his rebellious nature. Despite his iconoclastic persona, he has agreed to accept the 2025 Northern Music Award, acknowledging his significant influence on the music scene, including inspiring the Arctic Monkeys with his poem “I Wanna Be Yours.”
As he prepares to headline the Co-op Live arena in Manchester, a stark contrast to his humble beginnings in cabaret clubs and punk venues, Clarke reflects on his unconventional journey. Whether performing to a handful of punks or a massive arena crowd, he welcomes the challenge with open arms, embracing each new opportunity that comes his way.
Renowned poet and punk rock icon, John Cooper Clarke, has left an indelible mark on the music and literary scenes with his raw, unapologetic verses. From sharing the stage with legendary acts like Joy Division and The Sex Pistols to battling personal demons, Clarke’s journey has been nothing short of a rollercoaster ride.
His lyrical prowess is exemplified in classics like “Beasley Street” and “Evidently Chickentown,” where he delves into the gritty realities of urban life with a touch of dark humor. However, Clarke’s descent into heroin addiction in the 1980s threatened to silence his poetic voice forever.
Reflecting on his near-death experiences due to addiction, Clarke candidly admits, “Well, I died four times.” His resilience and a stroke of luck saw him through those tumultuous years, leading to a newfound sense of purpose upon meeting his wife, Evie. It was this personal revival that paved the way for his professional resurgence, culminating in the iconic use of “Evidently Chickentown” in the finale of The Sopranos.
In a poignant BBC documentary, peers and admirers alike paid tribute to Clarke’s influence, with comedian Steve Coogan praising his “spirit of dissent” and Arctic Monkeys’ frontman, Alex Turner, labeling him as “my hero.” Turner’s collaboration with Clarke on the track “I Wanna Be Yours” catapulted the poet to new heights, making him one of Britain’s most listened-to wordsmiths.
The unconventional love poem “I Wanna Be Yours,” with its quirky imagery of being a vacuum cleaner or a Ford Cortina, struck a chord with listeners across generations. Clarke’s initial recording in 1982 received a fresh interpretation by the Arctic Monkeys, capturing the essence of his work in a modern light.
As the streams of “I Wanna Be Yours” continue to soar globally, Clarke remains humble about the financial rewards, quipping, “I’d be a billionaire if I had a quid for every person that recited that poem at their wedding.” Despite his success, he maintains a down-to-earth attitude, acknowledging the impact of royalties and streaming revenue on his livelihood.
With an upcoming performance at Manchester’s Co-op Live arena, Clarke’s journey comes full circle, showcasing his resilience and enduring appeal to audiences old and new. His poetic legacy serves as a testament to the power of words to transcend time and connect with listeners on a profound level.
In a world where artistry often struggles to find its place, John Cooper Clarke stands as a beacon of authenticity and creativity, reminding us of the enduring impact of raw, unfiltered expression. As he takes the stage once again, his words will echo through the hearts of those who find solace in the beauty of poetry and the resilience of the human spirit.
