In conversation with John Robb
Author, musician, journalist, presenter and pundit – JOHN ROBB will be heading out on an extensive UK tour this month.
As he prepares to embark on his eagerly anticipated ‘Do You Believe In The Power Of Rock N Roll’ tour, I was thrilled to catch up with the man himself.
Born and bred in the vibrant seaside town of Blackpool, John Robb’s formative years were shaped by the seismic waves of punk rock that swept across the nation, igniting a fire within him that would fuel his creative endeavours for decades to come. From these humble beginnings emerged The Membranes, a pioneering post-punk outfit that pushed the boundaries of sonic exploration and captivated audiences with their raw energy and unbridled passion.
But Robb’s influence extends far beyond the confines of the stage. As a prolific writer, his incisive journalism and visionary cultural commentary have earned him a place at the forefront of the music scene, while his role as the founder of Louder Than War has cemented his reputation as one of the UK’s most influential voices in music and culture.
From his seminal interview with Nirvana to his pivotal role in shaping the iconic Madchester scene and coining the term ‘Britpop,’ Robb’s fingerprints are etched into the annals of music history.
“Nirvana were the game changers, the worldwide generational impact of Nirvana is equal to the Beatles. Not just in the UK but in America too. To me it’s just insane. I often talk about that first interview I did with them in New York. They played to about 20-30 people that day. I still can’t get my head around it. I live in the student part of Manchester. When I walk down the street, I’ll always see three Nirvana shirts and just think, wow. None of those students would ever think that weird looking old dude is the first person to ever interview Nirvana.”
With an extensive repertoire of best-selling books, including ‘Punk Rock – an Oral History’ and ‘The Stone Roses and the Resurrection of British Pop,’ Robb continues to illuminate the hidden corners of musical lore and cultural mythology.
“Do you believe in the Power of Rock N Roll, it’s the title of a song and album I did years ago, I think it’s a nice title really, you can go off on so many tangents with it. I always admire people like Henry Rollins who can learn a whole show. I can’t do that; my brain doesn’t work that way so every audience will have completely difference experience.
In Liverpool Peter Hootton from the Farm is joining me, he’s amazing, a really underrated cultural force. We did a great tour together and a gig for Hillsborough ‘96 (now 97) in Liverpool, It was just so emotional. I was concerned that people would think why is this bloke from Manchester here? but it was incredible and just so powerful. I have James Dean Bradfield joining me in Cardiff, there will be some excellent guests.”
As the curtains rise on the ‘Do You Believe In The Power Of Rock N Roll’ tour, audiences can expect an immersive journey through the annals of music history and a nuanced perspective on the complexities of contemporary society punctuated by Robb’s trademark wit, wisdom, and infectious energy. From intimate conversations to electrifying performances, Robb invites fans old and new to join him on a tour unlike any other.
So, mark your calendars, buy your tickets and prepare to be swept away by the unstoppable force of John Robb’s music and message. The ‘Do You Believe In The Power Of Rock N Roll’ tour promises to be an unforgettable experience, celebrating the power of music to unite, inspire and provoke change. A shared celebration of the transformative power of music and the enduring legacy of one of its most iconic figures.
Tour dates and ticket links below…
March
22 Selby Town Hall : Tickets and details here
23 Chorley Theatre : Tickets and details here
27 Kendal Brewery Arts : Tickets and details here
28 Sale Waterside : Tickets and details here
29 Halifax Square Chapel : Tickets and details here
April
10 Sheffield Leadmill: Tickets and details here
11 Pocklington Arts Centre : Tickets and details here
12 Buxton Pavillion Arts : Tickets and details here
18 Worcester Huntingdon Hall : Tickets and details here
19 Bristol Folk House : Tickets and details here
20 Southampton The Attic : Tickets and details here
21 Cambridge Junction : Tickets and details here
23 Colchester Arts Centre : Tickets and details here
24 Norwich Arts Centre : Tickets and details here
26 Chester Storyhouse Garrett : Tickets and details here
27 Liverpool Philharmonic (Music room) : Tickets and details here
28 Leeds The Old Woollen: Tickets and details here
May
2 Brighton Komedia : Tickets and details here
3 Woolwich Works : Tickets and details here
4 London 21 Soho : Tickets and details here
9 Edinburgh Voodoo Rooms : Tickets and details here
11 Nottingham Lakeside Arts tickets and details here
27 Corsham Pound Arts Centre
