John Blaylock is an artist whose raw, soul-baring vocals and emotionally rich songwriting create a powerful connection with anyone who listens. If you are drawn to music that bridges the gap between classic and contemporary pop, infused with deeply personal expression, John Blaylock’s work will resonate strongly with you. His upcoming debut album promises a collection of beautifully crafted, heartfelt songs featuring Lennon-like raw, gritty lyrics and captivating loops that take you to the edge.
You might find it interesting to know that John’s musical journey began at the age of 12 when he picked up the guitar and instantly fell in love. In his teenage years, he formed a band that gained significant attention, with their songs played by prominent DJs such as Zane Lowe on Radio 1, Steve Lamacq on Radio 2, and Clint Boon on XFM. The recognition included having one of their singles chosen as “single of the week,” a testament to the depth and appeal of their early work.
Recorded in North London at the historic Konk studios—famously known as The Kinks’ studio—as well as Snap studios, John’s upcoming album benefits from collaborations with notable musicians and producers. This includes Freddy Sheed, drummer for Lewis Capaldi; Grammy Award-winning producer Guy Massey; and talented hit songwriter and producer Helen Boulding. These partnerships enrich the album’s sound and reinforce the quality of his music for you to enjoy.
Central to John’s sound is the acoustic guitar, which is a massive part of his musical identity. His playing is influenced by legends like Paul Simon, a fact you can easily hear woven through his compositions. His distinctive northern tones give his powerful vocals a unique quality that can tear you open emotionally and then put you back together again. Such songwriting is rare, and it offers albums that don’t just entertain but become a part of your life’s story, living in your memories as true masterpieces.
John’s influences include iconic artists like Paul Simon, Bob Dylan, Crosby, Stills & Nash, James Taylor, The Byrds, and The Stone Roses. If you are familiar with these musicians, you’ll likely appreciate how their spirit and artistry shine through John’s work.
Beyond his music, John Blaylock is deeply involved in his local community, something that sets him apart as both an artist and activist. You may be inspired by his dedication to running community choirs, which bring people together through music at charities, homes, churches, community centers, and local events. His commitment shows how music can be a meaningful force in creating connection and making a difference where you live.
As you follow John’s career, you might also know that he has been touring the UK with the legendary Wet Wet Wet, gaining further exposure and audiences. Recently, John released the second single from his debut album, titled “Burns Like Fire,” which exemplifies his emotive style and songwriting skill. Supporting John on this journey are industry partners including WMA, Hart Media, Catapult National Radio, and Absolute Distribution, who help bring his music to a wider audience.
If you’re looking for music that tells real stories and touches you on a deep level, John Blaylock is an artist whose work is well worth your attention. His upcoming album offers you an opportunity to experience songs that feel like a reflection of your own life and emotions, crafted with brilliance and honesty.
Stream Burns Like Fire here: https://open.spotify.com/track/5lrz9rNh6xKR8qc91V3iYc?si=3b29e0c4e8cf4dde
What sets your music apart? What is unique, or at least uncommon?
I write these indie / pop songs but have this theme of bad ass acoustic fingerpicking running through everything. Not many singer songwriters can play an acoustic guitar like I can and I love that. So much so I’m giving my guitar a firm nod in naming my album – Sounds of The Dreadnought
If you could go open a show for any artist, who would it be?
I’d love to open up for Oasis on this forthcoming tour; the crowds are gonna be absolutely massive and everyone goes mental for a band they grew up with reuniting. Plus Heaton Park would be a fun place to play.
Where have you performed? What are your favorite and least favorite venues? Do you have any upcoming shows?
I’ve done gigs all over the UK and quite a lot in America and Europe too. My favourite venue so far has been The Royal Concert Hall in Nottingham because it’s really beautiful, favourite crowd – Dundee on a Friday night! They know how to do it in Scotland, especially at the weekend. I’m on tour again with Wet Wet Wet in October so amongst others will be playing The Lowry in Salford which I’m really looking forward to.
What is your favorite song to perform?
Probably Where Did All My Friends Go, it’s always last in the set as it’s a total banger and always gets great reactions from crowds, I really believer this tune can be a global hit record, I’ve performed it in LA and I’ve performed it in Tokyo and a lot of places in between. The response has been immense everywhere
What is the best advice you have been given?
Enjoy the journey, happiness is not a destination, it’s a vibration
If you could change anything about the industry, what would it be?
I’d like to turn the whole thing upside down, get rid of the “who you know network” get rid of 50 year old men writing songs for 20 year old girls, get rid of record labels, make streaming fair so artists can get paid,
What are your top two favorite albums of all time? Why those albums?
The Stone Roses – The Stone Roses – It’s just a perfect record, absolutely astounding
Urban Hymns – The Verve – Just great song after great song and the guitar sounds are incredible
What kind of recording facilities do you have at home?
I’ve got a good set up for making high quality recordings but I prefer to just make quick demos, getting the vibe and the melodies right on new songs before taking them to better producers
If you could have any superhero power, what would it be and why?
I’d speak every language in the world with every dialect too, it’d be amazing, you could travel the world and make amazing connections in the most random places. Or you could just take a bus round Manchester chatting away
If you were a tree, what kind would you be and why?
I’d be a Christmas tree, just get me in your house for a quick party and then I’m gone!
What two nonessential items would you want if you were shipwrecked on a deserted island?
A guitar and a 4 track recorder, that could turn a disaster in to a great getaway!
If you had a time machine, would you travel to the future or back to the past?
I’d go back in time to some of the greatest gigs in history – Jimi Hendrix at Woodstock, Queen at Wembley, Stone Roses at The Hacienda, U2 on the New York rooftop..
What would be the ideal food to have cooked for you on a date night?
Who wants to eat food on a date night!? I can think of far better things to do ????
What historical figure would you love to see in 21st century life?
A 20 year old Mozart would be fun to hang out with. I’d take him on a night out round Manchester and hit some of the street pianos, would be a good night
