Original folk songwriter based in Cork, Ireland. Delving into the world of fingerstyle guitar, influenced by the music of Ireland, England and America.
“I spent much of the early part of 2017 in and out of hospital with some mysterious illness that was intent on wasting my now 30-year-old body. My energy was at an all time low and all that gave me joy had been stripped or put on hold. All but my guitar and what was left of my feeble voice. So to fill the days and occupy my mind, I wrote.
I wrote of resilience, of pain and uncertainty. Of new love through fevered dreams, of strength, hope, distance, sedation and the cure.
I did it every day and recorded the demos sitting up in my hospital bed accompanied by the electronic bleeps of the machines and punctuated by the nurse’s concerned enquiries.
I had a reason. For me this is cathartic. For me, this was the panacea.”
In an age when it would be easy to become disillusioned with the music industry John has remained steadfastly positive and unyieldingly creative. Known for being one of Ireland’s hardest touring musicians. His live show is thoughtful and entertaining, littered with stories and showcasing his arresting vocals and intricate guitar playing.
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“A lovely sounding thing” – Roddy Hart, BBC
“A force of nature” – The Irish Times
“a master of subtlety in realms of folk-informed pop.” – The Thin Air
‘His songwriter talent is shining brighter with every album.’ – John Creedon, RTÉ
Homepage: https://johnblek.com/Releases
