As some of you know, my songwriting traverses a range of genres. I don’t fit neatly into any particular box as much as some have tried. ‘Protest Singer’ was a category often applied to me in the early days along with folk singer and, in the case of one song, psychedelic-folk.
I’ve also been referred to as a ‘balladeer’, which, as old fashioned as it might sound, is probably accurate more often than not.
However, other than a conscious effort to pen words that are substantial, there is no distinctive John Hanlon style. I’m subject to countless influences and am happy to let the words and melody dictate the genre of the song. The song is the hero, not me.
Occasionally, I write songs that are in shades of blue. Not necessarily 12 bar blues but undeniably blue nonetheless.
My cd ’12 SHADES OF BLUE’ contains a dozen such songs.
Over the next month I’ll feature a few of these in the hope that the blues lovers among you might enjoy them even though I’m not a true blue artist, merely a dilettante.
If you’re in a band, perhaps you’ll even learn and perform them. Because the greatest reward for a songwriter is when others choose to cover your work.
Sadly, as far as I’m aware, that doesn’t happen very often with my songs. And that’s enough to give anyone the blues, (he said with tongue firmly in cheek).
This track is called ‘SLIDING.’ The words should conjure up some entertaining images in your head.
I recorded it in Australia years ago. The guitarists are Rex Goh and Peter Northcote. Backing vocals, Brydon Stace. Producer, Russell Finch.
It’s not a live recording, the crowd is just a sound effect designed to add atmosphere.
Enjoy 🙂
Interesting concept John.
For me, it conjures up pictures of the sleazy side of Sydney, or even Auckland or any city for that matter.
Great song.
I wrote SLIDING when I was living in Sydney, Glenn. But I also had in mind nights I’d spent wandering in New York. And every musician knows what it’s like to be in a second rate hotel room with thin walls and a Gideon bible 🙂
Cool song John.
Thank’s Graham. Glad you enjoyed it 🙂
You got me love the groove well done John brings memories of Louisiana and Mississippi! !!!!!!
Bravo John. I like its rawness and wow!! That ending!! Look, I don’t know how to talk ‘music’ and this question might sound ridiculous……….Do you write lyrics and the music? The reason I ask is Bernie Taupin was The lyricist for Elton J. Do you do it all? OK, you can stop laughing now.
Hi Rosie,
I write both the music and the lyrics. I start by humming and strumming until a tune evolves and eventually find lyrics for it. Most often the lyrics are triggered by the pictures the tune conjures in my head. This is pretty much the opposite of the Taupin/Elton John partnership in so far as Elton writes the tune after getting Bernie’s lyrics. Rarely do I begin with a verbal ‘hook’ line for a song, which is how most ‘hit’ songs are written. I’d probably be more successful if I did that. Do you have a copy of 12 Shades of Blue. If not, email me and I’d be delighted to send you one.
Much love,
John
Hi John,
Hey I’ve re found your music and I’m all over it, as I just play it all day.
I remember your songs from my past, and must say that your music is as current as it was back then.
Especially your “protester” songs as you put it. These songs are not so much forgotten icons but are as relavant now as they were then.
I find your music timeless.
I am a home musician and enjoy playing along to your music and am thrilled to have re-found you again.
I would love to meet you or come listen jam style. Is the something you’d entertain ?.
I’ve got so many questions and an avid fan John. I have music connections in hamilton and would love to part of a comeback for your music. If not I still be a great fan of yours and glad to that you’re living back in NZ. Cheers