Answers
ALBUM, LYRIC, AND VIDEO INFORMATION
Q: What albums has John recorded, and what year were they released?
A:
Chestnut Street Incident; 1976
The Kid Inside; 1977
A Biography; 1978 (UK release only)
John Cougar; 1979
Nothin' Matters and What If It Did?; 1980
American Fool; 1982
Uh-Huh; 1984
Scarecrow; 1985
The Lonesome Jubilee; 1987
Big Daddy; 1989
Whenever We Wanted; 10/8/91
Human Wheels; 9/7/93
Dance Naked; 6/21/94
Mr. Happy Go Lucky; 9/10/96
The Best That I Could Do; 11/18/97
John Mellencamp; 10/6/98 (first release with Columbia)
Rough Harvest; 8/17/99 (final release with Mercury)
Cuttin' Heads; 10/16/01
Trouble No More; 6/3/03
Words and Music; 10/19/04
Freedom's Road; 1/23/07
Life, Death, Love and Freedom; 7/15/08
Additional (non-Mellencamp approved) releases:
The following list of releases involve the material John recorded as Johnny Cougar in 1975-1977 for his first manager, Tony DeFries. DeFries has all legal control over this material and can release it in any way he wishes. John had nothing to do with allowing these albums/collections to hit the market.
John Cougar The Collection; 1986; English import collection of Chestnut Street
Incident and The Kid Inside; Castle Records
John Cougar Mellencamp - The Early Years; 1986; collection of Chestnut Street Incident and The Kid Inside; Rhino Records
John Cougar The Collection; 1994; Australian Import re-release of the English version with a different cover, but the exact same track listing; Castle Records
Chestnut Street Incident (reissue); 1998; English import with previously unreleased bonus tracks; Red Snapper Label
The Kid Inside (reissue); 1998; English import with previously unreleased bonus tracks; Red Snapper Label
Skin It Back; 2000; Compilation of tracks from Chestnut Street Incident and The Kid Inside, with previously unreleased bonus tracks; Snapper Music Label
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Q: What other albums has John appeared as a contributor or a producer?
A:
Falling From Grace (movie soundtrack)
"It Don't Scare Me None" (performed by John)
"Nothing's For Free" (performed by John)
"Sweet Suzanne" (written by John)
"Common Day Man" (written by John)
"Searchin' for the Perfect Girl" (written by John and others)
Cocktail (movie soundtrack)
"Rave On"
Honeymoon in Vegas (movie soundtrack)
"Jailhouse Rock"
A Very Special Christmas (1987; various artists)
"I Saw Mommy Kissing Santa Claus"
Bob Dylan: 30th Anniversary Celebration (various artists)
"Like a Rolling Stone"
"Leopard-Skin Pill-box Hat"
Folkways: A Vision Shared
"Do Re Mi"
Christmas of Hope (various artists)
"Teddi's Song (When Christmas Comes)"
Blue Chips (movie soundtrack)
"Baby Please Don't Go"
Rainbow Warriors
"We Are the People"
Rock for Amnesty; The Ultimate Rock Album
"R.O.C.K. in the USA"
Concert for the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame
"R.O.C.K. in the USA" / "Little Latin Lupe Lu" medley
Missing Years; John Prine
"Take a Look at My Heart" (co-written w/ Prine)
Emotion; Barbra Streisand
"You're a Step in the Right Direction" (co-written w/ Streisand)
MTV Unplugged
"Pink Houses"
The Songs of Jimmie Rodgers...A Tribute Album
"Gambling Bar Room Blues"
Heaven and Hull; Mick Ronson
"Life's a River"
I’ve Always Been Crazy – A Tribute to Waylon Jennings
“Are You Sure Hank Done it This Way”
Conception: Musical Tribute to Stevie Wonder
“I Don’t Know Why I Love You”
My Honky Tonk History; Travis Tritt
“What Say You”
Producer:
Never Kick a Sleeping Dog; Mitch Ryder
Too Long in the Wastelands; James McMurtry
Candyland; James McMurtry
Colored Lights (Hard Line album); The Blasters
The Perfect Storm (movie soundtrack)
"Yours Forever"; music by James Horner; lyrics by John Mellencamp and George Green. Produced by James Horner, John Mellencamp and Mike Wanchic
Songwriter/Performer:
America’s Heart and Soul
* "The World Don’t Bother Me None”
*This recording is available only on the movie's DVD release
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Q: What videos have been made?
A: One of the defining characteristics of John Mellencamp's career has been his use of the video medium. Whether this being TV appearances/interviews/performances, promotional video clips, or film, John has set a standard that other musicians still try to live up to.
Music Videos
John Mellencamp has an extensive list of videos he has made. Here is a complete listing of videos for his songs. Please do not mail Mellencamp.com asking for a copy of these videos, as we do not have them and can not copy them. Some of the early videos were used only in Europe and Australia only where the video medium took off earlier than in North America.
From John Cougar (1979):
I Need A Lover
Miami
Small Paradise
From Nothin' Matters and What If It Did (1980):
This Time
Ain't Even Done With The Night
From American Fool (1982):
Hurts So Good
Jack & Diane
Hand To Hold On To
From Uh-Huh (1983):
Crumblin' Down
Authority Song
Pink Houses
From Scarecrow (1985):
Lonely Ol' Night
Small Town
Rain on the Scarecrow
R.O.C.K. in the U.S.A.
Rumbleseat
From Lonesome Jubilee (1987):
Paper in Fire
Check It Out
Cherry Bomb
Rooty Toot Toot
Hard Times for an Honest Man (unreleased)
From A Very Special Christmas (benefit album)(1987):
I Saw Mommy Kissing Santa Claus
From Big Daddy (1989):
Pop Singer
Jackie Brown
Let It All Hang Out:
From Whenever We Wanted (1991):
Get A Leg Up
Now More Than Ever
Love and Happiness
Again Tonight
From Human Wheels (1993):
Human Wheels
When Jesus Left Birmingham
From the soundtrack to the movie Blue Chips (1993):
Baby Please Don't Go
From Dance Naked (1994):
Wild Night (with city/cab scenes)
Wild Night (with no city/cab scenes)
Dance Naked
Another Sunny Day 12/25 (unreleased)
L.U.V. (unreleased)
From Mr. Happy Go Lucky (1996):
Key West Intermezzo
Just Another Day
From John Mellencamp (1998):
Your Life Is Now
I'm Not Running Anymore
From Cuttin' Heads (2001):
Peaceful World
From Trouble No More (2003):
To Washington
Teardrops Will Fall
From Words and Music (2004):
k Tall
From Freedom's Road (2007):
Our Country
From Life, Death, Love and Freedom (2008):
Jena
My Sweet Love (official version)
My Sweet Love (Internet-only version)
Troubled Land
A Ride Back Home
Home Video
In 1984, a home video titled "Ain't That America" was released. The following is a description of that VHS:
Ain't That America
1984, 49 minutes
Ain't That America is a "video album" from 1984 which contains videos, some live footage from the studio, and some interview-like comments from John and some of his friends. This video has been out of production for almost 10 years, so good luck in locating a copy. Although the video was released on laser disc a few years ago, and still can be found in that format. Unfortunately this is the only "home video" John has ever released. There are currently no plans to release any other home video.
The videos included are:
Jack & Diane
Hand To Hold On To
Hurts So Good
This Time
Ain't Even Done With The Night
I Need A Lover
Miami
Small Paradise
Crumblin' Down
Authority Song
Pink Houses
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Q: What's the story behind "Grandma's Theme" off the Scarecrow album?
A: John's grandmother, Laura sings the song on the album. She often sung this song to John and his cousins when they were babies, and thus the song has been a cherished memory of the Mellencamp family.
Though no credit is given on the album, what is used is an excerpt taken from "In the Baggage Coach Ahead"; a 1896 folk song by Gussie L. Davis.
Sheet music cover:
http://beinecke.library.yale.edu/LetItResound/min_baggage_coach.html
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Q: I’ve seen both “The Kid Inside” and “Chestnut Street Incident” on CD. Are these legitimate releases?
A: These albums were made for MCA, but when John was dropped from MCA Tony
DeFries (John's manager) got controlling rights to these albums. Later, once
John was breaking through to major fame, he released these as the single album
John Cougar the Collection. Then he released them individually also in the
'80s. In 1998, apparently he licensed them to a small label (Red Snapper) to
press them on CD for the first time. Since John never gained control over that
material, he couldn't stop it. They are legitimate, legal releases.
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Q: I’ve seen an album called “Skin it Back” (Griffin Records) on a discography. What is that, and where can I get one?
A: It was first thought that this long-rumored-to-be-released CD was never going to be released. However, John's first manager, Tony DeFries, who owns the rights to John's first two albums, Chestnut Street Incident and The Kid Inside released the 2-CD set in April, 2000. (John has no involvement in this release) Skin it Back is a compilation of most of the material from Chestnut Street Incident and The Kid Inside, in addition to outtakes and rarities.
This is the 4th time Mr. DeFries has released these two albums in different packaging.
You can purchase this through Amazon.com
http://www.amazon.com
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Q: Can the album “A Biography” be found anywhere?
A: The most recent news on A Biography is that this album is among the first series of albums being re-mastered and released on March 29, 2005. Check
http://www.mellencamp.com/POP_news.php?news_id=205
for more info This will mark the first time the album will be released on CD.
ORIGINAL ANSWER: A Biography is INCREDIBLY hard to find. At the first Mellenfest a copy went for several hundred dollars. This was only released in England and Australia only on vinyl. Plus once John released John Cougar, it went out of print and has never been re-released. So that means there are a limited number of copies, only a few of which ever made it to the USA. Now I know that some industrious people have converted it to CDR and have traded it around, so you might get lucky and find someone who has it that way. Every few months one pops up on eBay.
It's the kind of thing you want to look for in second-hand record shops, record stores overseas, record conventions/shows and places like that.
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Q: Does John have a live album, or are there any plans to do one in the future?
A: As of now, John has not released a live album nor has there been a live home video release. In interviews over the years, John has commented on how he isn't confident that live CDs or videos capture the energy and spirit of his live show. Hopefully someday John will release a live CD or DVD.
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Q: Does John have a box set?
A: Several times over his career in interviews, John has mentioned doing a box set. He has even said it would be titled "Nothing Like We Planned" after how his career has turned out. Originally discussed in the early 1990's, the box set has never come to fruition. It has been worked on several times over the years, but was never completed or scheduled for release.
There were rumblings that the box set may come out after all of John's albums have been re-mastered and released in 2006.
Watch the NEWS http://www.mellencamp.com/index.php?page=news page for updates on if and when the box set will be released.
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Q: Can you tell me more about the re-mastered releases?
A: From the Universal Records Press Release:
As one of the most popular and significant artists of our era heads out on tour this spring for the first time in three years,
a "Definitive Remaster" series of reissues is set to reinvigorate his original albums. Thirteen Mellencamp discs, from 1978's A Biography (never before released in the U.S. and never on CD anywhere) to 1998's Rough Harvest, are included in "The John Mellencamp Definitive Remasters" to be chronologically issued in three releases from Universal Music Enterprises (UMe) and Island/Def Jam during 2005.
Each "Definitive Remaster" features newly remastered sound utilizing the original master tapes, a rare or previously unreleased bonus track and upgraded packaging encompassing lyrics and the complete original artwork.
To see the entire press release, head on over to http://www.mellencamp.com/index.php?page=news
Series One, released March 29, 2005, encompasses:
A Biography: Originally released only in the U.K. and Australia, the album includes the original issuance of his breakthrough track "I Need a Lover". The "definitive re-master" bonus is the U.K. single version of "I Need a Lover".
John Cougar: "I Need a Lover" arrived in America on this 1979 album and scored his first top-40 hit. The "definitive re-master" bonus track is the previously unreleased ""Take Home Pay".
Nothin' Matters and What if it Did: This 1980 Steve Cropper-produced album peaked top 40 and yielded the top-40 singles "This Time" and "Ain't Even Done With the Night". The album would eventually be certified platinum. The "definitive re-master" bonus track is the previously unreleased "Latest Game".
American Fool: The 1982 album that launched Mellencamp as a superstar hit #1 and quintuple platinum. A pair of singles went gold: "Jack & Diane" (#1) and Grammy winner "Hurts so Good" (#2), and "Hand to Hold On To" hit the top 20. The "definitive re-master" bonus track is the previously unreleased "American Fool".
Uh-Huh: In 1983, his first album as John Cougar Mellencamp spawned the top 10s "Pink Houses" and "Crumblin' Down", plus the top-20 placed "Authority Song". The album reached #9 and triple platinum. The "definitive re-master" bonus track is the acoustic "Pink Houses" which was first issued as the b-side of "Authority Song".
Series two, released May 24, 2005, encompasses:
Scarecrow: The 1985 album that underscored the plight of the American farmer and was a catalyst in the movement that birthed Farm Aid. The album includes three top-10 singles: "Small Town", "Lonely Ol' Night", and "ROCK in the USA". The "definitive re-master" bonus track is an acoustic version of "Small Town", which previously had only been available as a b-side.
The Lonesome Jubilee: This 1987 album -- the first to be released under his given name, John Mellencamp -- is another classic album in the series. It includes three top-15 singles: "Paper In Fire", "Check it Out", and "Cherry Bomb". The bonus track included is "Blues From the Front Porch", a down-home studio romp from Mellencamp and his band, never before released.
Big Daddy: The 1989 album that includes the top-15 hit "Pop Singer", which was thought to be the artist's personal manifesto, and the evocative "Jackie Brown". The bonus track on the definitive re-master release is a rare acoustic version of "Jackie Brown", heretofore only released as a b-side.
Whenever We Wanted: Released in 1991, it includes the top-15 hit "Get A Leg Up". The definitive re-master bonus track is a London club mix version of the album opener "Love and Happiness", which was originally a CD single b-side.
Series three (final releases), released July 19, 2005, encompasses:
Human Wheels: This 1993 release includes "When Jesus Left Birmingham" and "What If I Came Knocking". The latter was a #1 track on Radio and Records' Album Rock Chart. The title track got to the #2 position on the same chart that year. The definitive re-master bonus track is a version of "When Jesus Left Birmingham" featuring Sounds of Blackness.
Dance Naked: Included on this 1994 album is "Wild Night", Mellencamp's hit version of the Van Morrison song featuring Me'Shell NdegeOcello. The song charted #3 on Billboard's Top 100 Singles Chart, and stayed in the #1 position on the Adult Contemporary Chart for 8 weeks that year. The title track was also a chart hit on both the Pop and Album Rock Charts. The bonus track offered is an acoustic version of "Wild Night".
Mr Happy Go Lucky: This 1996 release includes the Billboard Top 15 hit "Key West Intermezzo (I Saw You First)". The bonus track is a live version of "What If I Came Knocking", which was recorded live in Chicago.
Rough Harvest: This 1999 release is a collection of alternative and (then) unreleased versions of many of Mellencamp's most highly-regarded songs including "Rain on the Scarecrow", "Jackie Brown" and "Minutes to Memories". The bonus track is the much sought after rendition of Willie Dixon's Muddy Waters' classic "Seventh Son" which was recorded at 2120 S. Michigan Avenue, the site of the original Chess Records.
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Q: Where can I find the lyrics to “Farewell Angelina” and “In My Time of Dying” off of Rough Harvest?
A: The lyrics to this Bob Dylan song can be found here:
http://www.mellencamp.com/index.php?page=lyrics
The lyrics to all songs on John's albums can be found at that link.
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Q: Why did John's first greatest hits collection, "The Best That I Could Do", not have all of John's hits?
A: John had early record contracts that forced ratios of his early-80's material to be included vs. his mid-80s' and on material. That's why his first greatest hits collection was only 1978-1988 and why some songs like "Rain on the Scarecrow", "Play Guitar", and "Rumbleseat" were not included. Because for each of those songs added, a song from his early career would have to have been added.
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Q: I’ve seen an EP with John’s cover of Paul Revere and the Raiders’ “Kicks” on it. Can I buy that anywhere?
A: That vinyl single (33 1/3 LP) titled U.S. Male was released in 1978 on Bloomington IN label Gulcher Records. It was a collection of some early records that John made, including "Kicks" which was his first demo. Only about 2000 copies were pressed. It's pretty hard to find and was never re-released, but you might be able to find a copy on EBay sometime.
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AWARDS AND NOMINATIONS
Q: What awards and/or nominations has John received?
A:
2008; Rock and Roll Hall of Fame
2008; Grammy nomination; Best Solo Rock Vocal Performance; "Our Country"
2007; ASCAP Foundation Champion Award; for music in the service of humanity
2005; Music Video Production Association Award; Adult Contemporary Video of the Year; "Walk Tall"
2003; Woody Guthrie Award – Huntington’s Disease Society of America
2001; Grammy nomination; Best Male Rock Vocal Performance; "Peaceful World"
2001; Billboard Century Award
1999; Grammy nomination; Best Male Rock Vocal Performance; "Your Life is Now"
1998; Grammy nomination; Best Male Rock Vocal Performance; "Just Another Day"
1997; Grammy nomination; Best Male Rock Vocal Performance; "Key West Intermezzo"
1994; Grammy nomination;- Best Pop Vocal Collaboration; "Wild Night"
1991; Nordoff-Robbins Silver Clef Award; Special Music Industry Humanitarian Award
1991; Grammy nomination; Best Rock Vocal Performance, Solo; "Whenever We Wanted"
1988; Grammy nomination; Best Performance Music Video; "Check It Out"
1988; ASCAP Pop Award; Most Performed Songs; "Cherry Bomb"
1987; Grammy nomination; Producer of the Year; "The Lonesome Jubilee"
1986; Special NARAS Award; President's Merit Award; Farm Aid
1986; Best Conceptual Video; "Rain on the Scarecrow"
1986; ASCAP Pop Award; Most Performed Songs; "R.O.C.K. in the U.S.A." & "Small Town"
1985; Grammy nomination; Best Male Rock Performance; "Rain on the Scarecrow"
1984; Grammy nomination; Best Male Rock Performance; "Pink Houses"
1983; American Music Award; Favorite Pop Male
1982; Grammy nomination; Album of the Year; "American Fool"
1982; Grammy Award; Best Male Rock Performer; "Hurts So Good"
1982; Billboard Award; No. 1 Top Pop Singles Artist
1982; Billboard Award; No. 2 Top Pop Singles Artist
1982; Cash Box Awards; No. 1 Artist of the Year
1982; Cash Box Awards; No. 1 Male Pop Album Artist
1982; Cash Box Awards; No. 1 Male Pop Singles Artist
1982; NARM Award; Best Selling LP by a Male Artist; "American Fool"
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BIOGRAPHICAL INFORMATION
Q: When and where was John born?
A: October 7, 1951 in Seymour, Indiana
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Q: How tall is John?
A: Approximately 5'7"
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Q: What color are John's eyes?
A: Blue
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Q: What's the deal with John's name being changed from Johnny Cougar to John Cougar Mellencamp and then John Mellencamp?
A: In 1976, Tony DeFries of MainMan Mgmt landed John a deal at MCA. When the album Chestnut Street Incident was released, Mellencamp discovered his last name had been changed to Cougar, courtesy of DeFries. In 1983, John added Mellencamp back to his name. In 1991 he dropped the "Cougar" moniker altogether.
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Q: Where did John attend college, and what was his major?
A: John attended Vincennes University and his major was Communications (Broadcast Journalism).
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Q: I’ve seen John’s name in print as both “John Jay Mellencamp” and “John J Mellencamp”. Which is correct?
A: Well, Tony Buechler (webmaster of Mellencamp.com) spoke to John's sister, Janet, at the Louisville show on 7/14/99, and she set the record straight. According to her, the "J" stands for nothing. So, John J Mellencamp would be correct.
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Q: How many times has John been married, and how many children does he have?
A: John has been married 3 times. Pricilla Esterline (1970-1980) and Victoria Granucci (1981-approx 1989) were his first two wives. He has been married to Elaine Irwin since 1992. Currently, he has 5 children and several grandchildren.
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Q: What are the names and ages of his children?
A:
Michele; born 12/4/70 (mother is Pricilla Esterline)
Teddi Jo; born 7/1/81 (mother is Victoria Granucci)
Justice; born 8/14/85 (mother is Victoria)
Hud; born 4/27/94 (mother is Elaine Irwin)
Speck; born 4/23/95 (mother is Elaine)
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Q: I heard John was born with a medical condition known as spina bifida. Is that true? What is that?
A: Spina bifida is a birth defect that occurs during the first 30 days of the development of a baby. The spinal cord begins as a flat sheet of cells that eventually curve to form a tube/cord. Sometimes there is a place where the cells do not curve and close, leaving an opening in the spinal cord. John was very lucky in that he was among the 4% of children born with this birth defect where the opening was just a fluid filled sac called meningocele. If the sac had contained any spinal cord nerves John could have been rendered paralyzed. A successful surgery, at the age of six weeks, had repaired the opening of John's
spinal cord and fused his vertebrae, leaving him with no physical impairments as a result.
In an interview from the Special Olympics, he also said that two other people were born at the same time he was with spina bifida. He said he always saw a particular girl at the basketball games who was confined to a wheelchair. He asked someone who she was, and they told him that she was one of the others born with spina bifida. John realized it could have been him in that wheelchair, and that is one of the main reasons he did a song for the Special Olympics. Most of those with spina bifida end up like the girl in the wheelchair and are not as fortunate as John.
For more information about the disease:
http://www.sbaa.org/
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FAN CLUB INFORMATION
Q: Who runs JohnMellencamp.com?
A: JohnMellencamp.com is managed by longtime Mellencamp webmaster TonyB tony@mellencamp.com. Tony started one of the first Mellencamp fan sites in 1995, which became John's official site in 1998 under the name Mellencamp.com. All content on the website, and John's fan club, are
overseen by TonyB.
The site is designed by Design Monsters. They are the people who have done the artwork for most of John's albums. The site is hosted and powered by Signatures Network. They are the people who produce John's concert merchandise and administer his fan club.
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CLUB CHERRY BOMB INFORMATION
Q: What is the Street Team on the Club Cherry Bomb message board? Can anyone help?
A: The Street Team is a volunteer group of fan club members that want to help support John in his career and music by doing different projects. Past projects include requesting his songs on radio, promoting John via other message boards, doing retail checks to see how John's albums are positioned in stores, and different projects of that nature.
Any Fan Club member is welcome! Just visit the POST section of ClubCherryBomb and look for the street team section.
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Q: What is the Minutes to Memories Online Journal? What happened to the Minutes to Memories Newsletter?
A: John's Fan Club's have a long tradition of having a newsletter. The newsletter has always been written by a group of fans, for the fans. It compiles of stories, ideas, photos and experiences related to John Mellencamp.
In the past, during the pre online/Club Cherry Bomb era of the Club, the Minutes to Memories 'Newsletter' was sent via the US Mail. to PAID members of John Mellencamp's fan club.
When Club Cherry Bomb was launched the newsletter moved into a downloadable and printable digital format. However, that format wasn't a huge success. One of the main challenges was the time it took to compile the newsletters. Often by the time they were finished the stories contained were dated.
In order to better reach the Club membership we evolved the newsletter into an online journal (some may call it a blog) in a section on the Club website. The journal is updated with stories and pictures submitted by members of the Club whenever they are written.
The intent of the Journal is to provide insight into John's fans and past events that have transpired over time that are not necessarily considered news, but particularly of interest to John's fans. The journal also contains numerous full-color photographs that are not available in any other location(s). Fan contributions are appreciated and always welcomed.
Minutes to Memories is no longer referred to as a "newsletter" since most of the information that would be construed as actual John Mellencamp news is instantaneously available online and via Official Club Newsletter e-mail blasts. The journal is more of a timely forum containing commentary and stories of past events and/or humor as well as stunning photographs of John, the fans and John Mellencamp's amazing band.
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Q: How can I access the Club Cherry Bomb Minutes to Memories Online Journal?
A: Once you are logged into the Club website, click on the link that says JOURNAL.
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Q: I have a great story idea. Can I contribute to the Club Cherry Bomb Minutes to Memories Online Journal?
A: YES! We would love to here your stories, ideas, experiences, and see your photographs of John Mellencamp. E-mail
help@mellencamp.com
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Q: I would like to tell you how I feel about the Club Cherry Bomb Minutes to Memories Journal. Where can I voice my opinions?
A: We would love to have feedback about the Journal! E-mail help@mellencamp.com with your comments.
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Q: Can FREE members access the Club Cherry Bomb Minutes to Memories Online Journal?
A: No. The journal is for PAID members only.
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GENERAL INFORMATION
Q: What tattoos does John have?
A: The one on his right arm originally was his ex-wife, Vicky. Later, he had it altered by adding a beard making it look like Jesus. He also has a woodpecker with a cigar or cigarette in its mouth (I believe this is the Thrush Muffler logo) and a broken heart along with the words "forgive us". On his left ring finger, he has what looks like the sign of "female" (circle with a cross).
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Q: What is carved on John's Gibson Dove acoustic guitar?
A: From the MTV Unplugged book: "The night before the Mellencamp Unplugged,
John decided to carve "Fuck Fascism" into his guitar. Because
we've stated over and over that the purpose of the show is to showcase
the songs and the simplicity of the acoustic instruments, it was
pretty much impossible to film him playing without having the message
flash across televisions all over America. So we compromised. John
agreed to place a 'Censorship is UnAmerican' button across his whittled
message. Since it only covered part of the 'U', it's a fair bet that
the viewers knew exactly what point he was trying to make. Even if
it did look as if it said 'Fock' Fascism."
There is also a partially carved eagle that was started in the mid-'80s on
tour, but was never finished.
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Q: Where exactly is John's house located in Indiana?
A: He lives on the outskirts of Bloomington, IN, about 50 miles from his boyhood home in Seymour. Out of respect for his privacy, please do not ask for the exact address.
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Q: What is Mellenfest?
A: The Mellenfest events are fan conventions,
if you will. To date, there have
been three such gatherings: 1997,
1998 and 2000.. Approximately
300-400 fans (primarily from
the MTM fan club and Human-Wheels
mailing list from all over the
world) got together in John's
hometown of Seymour, IN, for
2 nights and 2 days of events which included
live music and self-guided tours of Seymour.
Mellenfest 2000 was held in conjunction
with Seymour's Oktoberfest.
Live
music at these events included
The Bobby Clark Band (Bobby being
John's first cousin), Rusty Bladen and
the Shakin' Jakes (John's current
bassist, John Gunnell (aka: John E Gee) formerly
played bass guitar in Rusty's
band), Jimmy Ryser (who contributed to the Dance
Naked, Human Wheels and John
Mellencamp albums), The Mary Janes (Janas
Hoyt performed with John on both John Mellencamp and Rough
Harvest), and No Net (featuring Toby Myers
and Moe Z MD).
Also at the 1998
Mellenfest, fans were fortunate
to have John attend. He performed
one song live ("Early Bird Cafe"; solo/acoustically)
and played two songs ("Your Life is Now" and "I'm
Not Running Anymore") off of the then unreleased
album John Mellencamp. He was also gracious
enough to stay for a while to
sign some autographs.
There are
no plans for another Mellenfest.
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Q: Where can I view some of John's paintings?
A: 
The book "Paintings and Reflections" (Harper Perennial; 10/23/98; Hardcover $40.00; Paperback $20.00) for the first time gathers beautiful full-color reproductions of John's favorite work. John has donated his profits from the book to VH1's "Save the Music" program which helps buy musical instruments for school children. There will be no further printings of this book in the hardcover edition.
There are paintings on display at the "Southern Indiana Center for the Arts" http://www.soinart.com
You can view some of the paintings on John's official page http://www.mellencamp.com/index.php?page=paintings
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Q: Who is George Green?
A: We are fortunate enough to have an answer directly from George:
"John Mellencamp and I (grew) up in the same town. We have been close friends for many years and we are the same age. We started writing songs together after high school. I am a lyricist by profession, so for any song my name is on, I
wrote the lyrics. Among my songs with John are: 'Hurts so Good', 'Crumblin' Down', 'Rain on the Scarecrow', 'Human Wheels', 'Minutes to Memories' & 'Key West Intermezzo'. I have also written songs recorded by several other artists,
including Jude Cole, Vanessa Williams, Hall & Oates, Level 42, Girl Overboard, and Barbra Streisand".
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Q: Is the movie "Falling From Grace" released in DVD format yet?
A: The theatrical release of "Falling From Grace" was 1991. The script was written by Larry McMurtry, and it marked John Mellencamp's acting and directorial debut. It stars John as well as Muriel Hemingway, Kay Lenz and Claude Akins, and is about a famous singer's return to his small-town roots. >
The DVD is available at http://www.amazon.com/
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Q: Is Elaine Mellencamp in George Michael's video, "Freedom '90"?
A: No. German model, Tatjana Patitz, is the model who appears in that video.
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Q: Who is the model driving the cab in the "Wild Night" video?
A: She is model Shauna Zadrick. Here's an excerpt from an online bio:
Apart from the Guess? campaign, Zadrick also appeared in ads for Calvin Klein's perfume... Apart from advertising, Shauna also appeared in John Mellencamp's video "Wild Night", the video accompanying the 1994 single from his album Dance Naked.
She was born and raised in Grand Junction, Colorado.
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Q: What has John's role been with Farm Aid?
A: John was a founding organizer of Farm-Aid along with Willie Nelson and Neil Young. John's role is now more of a quiet supporter, letting Willie run things. The goal is to raise awareness of the plight of the American farmers. The day-long concert takes place yearly.
http://www.farmaid.org
To make a donation to Farm-Aid, call 1-800-FARMAID.
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Q: Is that a “Whenever We Wanted” tour T-shirt I saw Matthew McConaughey wearing in the 1996 movie “A Time to Kill”?
A: Yes. Matthew is a self-professed fan of John's, and has attended at least 3 of John's shows in the past few years. It is reported that they are friends and have even vacationed together. Also, Matthew appeared in the video for "Key West Intermezzo".
When John received the 2001 Billboard Century Award, Matthew gave the induction speech.
There's a publicity photo of Matthew wearing the shirt here:
http://www.imdb.com/gallery/ss/0117913/fcs_lt_0020.jpg
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Q: There is a group called “Jon Cougar Concentration Camp”. Who are they, and does John have anything to do with them?
A: They are a punk-rock group; one of their albums being a compilation of Ramones' cover songs, And, no, John has nothing to do with them. Using that name perhaps was just an easy way for them to try to gain some notoriety and name recognition.
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Q: Does John allow fans to take pictures at his live shows?
A: John stipulates in his performance contracts that cameras are NOT allowed
at his shows. It is almost always stated on the tickets, and security
is usually informed that only professional photographers with approved
media credentials will be allowed to take pictures during the first
three songs when accompanied by a representative from the promoter.
How
security handles fans taking pictures depends entirely on them.
Some will let you take pictures, some will make you stop
if they see you, some will take your film if they see you, some
will take your camera until after the show, and some might even make
you leave the show.
Bottom line: If you choose to sneak a camera
in, do not use flash. Do not
over use the camera by taking lots of pictures right in John's or the band members'
faces. Use common sense, as you are taking a chance.
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Q: What other bands has John been a member of?
A:
Crape Soul
Snake Pit Banana Barn (1966)
Trash (1971)
The Romans
Mason Brothers
John Cougar and The Zone
He and has band have also appeared incognito under the following names:
COPS
Pearl Doggie
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Q: What is Belmont Mall?
A: The Belmont Mall Studio is John's recording studio. Belmont is an extremely
small southern-Indiana town.It's
located about 10 miles outside of Bloomington and consists
of two “ Belmont ” signs on a state highway, one
mile apart, with
about 10 buildings in between. The studio is not located on the
highway, and to protect John's privacy, the location will not be
posted here.
The
album Uh Huh was recorded in a mobile recording truck at
his sister's unfinished house. After that, John
decided he wanted his own recording studio.
So he bought a house in the Belmont area, and converted it
into a recording studio
and a small office
area. Since 1985, starting with Scarecrow, all of
his albums have been recorded
there.
With
the exception of when he's recording or being interviewed, John is rarely in
the studio. It is staffed by a handful
of people who take care of
John's business dealings. When time permits, the staff there also deals with
John's fan mail
and autograph requests. The mail is sorted through and put on John's desk. He
goes through
it when he has the time. Some fans have been
able to locate the phone number and they call trying to get
news or information, but the staff deals only in the business and not John's
career.
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Q: I have heard that the fan club can give out photo passes to take pictures at Mellencamps' shows? Can you tell me more?
A: John's management allows the fan club one photo pass at most Mellencamp headlining concerts. Fan club photographers are treated just like photographers from local newspapers. They have to have pro grade or semi pro gear and skills. They have to shoot from the soundboard area, and typically only get to shoot for the first few songs of the show.
If you have high quality camera gear and would like more information please e-mail help@mellencamp.com
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Q: Can anyone volunteer to be a fan club photographer? Do I have to be a member?
A: Anyone can volunteer, but you need to have the appropriate equipment to be able to take pictures from the soundboard, which is usually about 30 rows back from the stage. A high quality camera is required.
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Q: What movies has John appeared in?
A: 
Falling From Grace: Here's more than a little bit of information about this terrific movie!
Falling From Grace (1991)
"One of the best films of the year." Roger Ebert, Siskel & Ebert
"A vibrantly funny and touching film...It sneaks into your heart with the power of a song." Peter Travers, Rolling Stone
"A very fine filmmaking debut from John Mellencamp." Gene Siskel, CBS This Morning
Singer John Mellencamp makes his acting and directing debut in this heartfelt love story about a famous singer's return to his small-town roots. Written by Pulitzer Prize-winner Larry McMurtry (Lonesome Dove, Terms of Endearment), Falling From Grace travels the same rural roads as Mellencamp's best music. Jetting in from Los Angeles singer Bud Parks (Mellencamp) and his wife Alice (Mariel Hemingway) return to his Indiana hometown to celebrate his grandfather's 80th birthday. But once there, Bud immediately returns to the wild ways of his youth. He risks his marriage by renewing a love affair with his high school sweetheart (Kay Lenz), and risks his life with the hard drinking and highwire antics that made him famous. Like A Star Is Born, Falling From Grace is an unforgettable portrait of a star driven to make music - and desperate to find live.
Falling From Grace is John Mellencamp's acting as well as directorial debut. Falling From Grace is the result of John's discussions with Larry McMurtry about writing a script for a movie for him to star in that began in the mid 1980's. While John had much input on the general story it is not the autobiographical tale that many believe the film is. However there are many similarities between the character Mellencamp plays and his real life. Falling From Grace was not a blockbuster at the box office. However it did respectably and is looked upon as an artistic success for Mellencamp's first attempt at acting and directing a feature film. Falling From Grace was mostly filmed in Southern Indiana and specifically in John's hometown of Seymour Indiana. Since its theatrical release in 1991 the movie has been released on home video and is also show occasionally on movie networks such as HBO, Cinemax, Showtime and the Independent Film Channel.
After Image: 2001 John plays a crime-scene photographer. The DVD release is available as of 8/2/05.
Lone Star State of Mind: 2002. Described in the press release as a "comedic crime-romp". John plays a slightly deranged (and very funny) family member . Available on DVD.
Madison: 2005. John is a narrator for this movie. Released to theaters in late Spring 2005. The DVD was released on 9/13/05.
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Q: I have heard that John's wife, Elaine Irwin, was married to "rocker" Tommy Lee before she married John. Is this true?
A: There is no truth to this. This was mistakenly reported in the early days of the web in the mid-90's, and has remained there ever since.
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Q: Whatever happened to that musical John and Steven King were working on?
A: Tentatively titled “The Ghost Brothers of Darkland County”, John said he hopes it will be in front of people in 2006, possibly staging it in the Chicago area. In mid 2005, John and Steven had a read through of the show with some actors in NYC to evaluate their progress. The story was outlined by John, and then fleshed out by Steven. The music is written by John.
Everything is tentative at this point. Check back for updates!
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TOUR INFORMATION
Q: What is the latest tour information?
A: John and his band have just begun a summer tour, once again with Bob Dylan! The tour started on 7/13/10 in Ontario, Canada, and is scheduled to end on 9/3/10 in Yakima, WA.
Stay tuned for more tour dates to follow the release of “No Better Than This”, in stores on 8/17/10!
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Q: Where can I find the latest tour information?
A: The JohnMellencamp.com or ClubCherryBomb.net TOUR section will always have the most up-to-date information. Here you will find tour dates and stops, reviews and links to pictures. You will also find a link to the most current Tour FAQ.
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Q: Who were John's band members for the Summer 2009 Tour?
A:
Mike Wanchic: guitar; backing vocals
Andy York: guitar; harmonica; backing vocals
Dane Clark: drums; percussion
John Gunnell (aka: Jon E Gee): bass guitar
Miriam Sturm: violin, percussion; backing vocals
Troye Kinnett: keyboards; organ; accordion; drums; backing vocals
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Q: What ever happened to past members of John's touring band?
A: Over the years, John has invited several artists to record, tour and sit in with the band. The following are members who have toured with John, and what they're doing now:
Toby Myers: (1982-1999) (though he did contribute to the 2003 TNM album) Toby left the band to concentrate on his family life.
Crystal Taliefero: (1985-1989) Crystal is a touring session musician, composer and producer. In addition to John, she has toured with many artists including Billy Joel, Bruce Springsteen, and Meatloaf.
Mindy Jostyn: (1994 DN Tour) Mindy passed away from cancer on 3/10/05. She played violin, guitar and harmonica on the Dance Naked Tour. In addition, she was quite an accomplished singer/songwriter/musician.
David Grissom: (1991-1993) David left John's band to play with the now-disbanded Storyville. After that, he went on to play with the Allman Brothers, and has also played with a long list of musicians.
Kenny Aronoff: (1980-1996) Since leaving John's band to become a session/touring drummer for hire, Kenny has toured with a wide variety of artists, including Melissa Etheridge, Bob Seger, Smashing Pumpkins, Michelle Branch and John Fogerty. In 2005 he is touring with the BoDeans. His studio session work is extensive and frequent. He also gives a number of drum clinics nationwide each year.
Larry Crane: (1975-1991) Since leaving John's band, Larry has had a solo career, and has released several albums.
John Cascella: (1984-1992) On 11/14/92, during the recording sessions of the Human Wheels album, he passed away from a heart attack.
Lisa Germano: (1985-1994) Lisa is a solo artist with several albums, and has also toured and recorded with a long list of artists.
Jenn Christy: (2001-2002) Left John's band to pursue a solo career.
Courtney Kaiser: (2001-2002) (also contributed to the TNM album) Left John's band to pursue a solo career.
Moe-Z M.D.: (1996-2002) Moe-Z went from John's band to tour with the Wallflowers, and in addition to being a musician and songwriter, is a producer.
Carroll Sue Hill: (1983) Carroll was in John's band for the Uh-Huh tour. I am unable to find any information on her since leaving John's band. Anyone reading this who has any info to share, please contact us!
Michael Ramos: Michael was in John's touring band for the first 2 legs of the Words and Music Tour in 2005. Because he is now promoting his project, Charanga Cakewalk, he was unable to join the band for the 3rd leg of the tour.
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Q: What is "Rural Electrification"?
A: The following is an excerpt from the press release:
Mellencamp, long noted as one of rock's most exciting and popular live performers, is calling the 40-city trek (1999) "The Rural Electrification Tour," as a way of defining the anticipation he and his band feel for performing for sold-out crowds across the country. As he explained, "In the Thirties, Rural Electrification brought electricity to farmers and other rural dwellers for the first time in their lives, and along with that electricity came radios and record players: Music! We're lucky enough that for the last 20 years, we've had the opportunity play our own small part in bringing music to people; to
entertain them and have a lot of fun in the process."
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Q: When and where is the next Farm Aid taking place?
A:
This year, 2010, marks the 25th anniversary of Farm Aid.
Planning is in the works for "Farm Aid 25: Growing Hope for America".
FarmAid.org or johnmellencamp.com for up-to-date info.
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Q: When and where have all of the Farm Aid shows taken place?
A:
9/22/85; Champaign, IL
7/4/86; Austin, TX
9/19/87; Lincoln, NE
1989; Farm Aid on the Road: Willie Nelson did 16 of his own shows around the country, holding press conferences at each show.
4/7/90; Indianapolis, IN
3/14/92; Irving, TX
4/24/93; Ames, IA
9/18/94; New Orleans, LA
10/1/95; Louisville, KY
10/12/96; Columbus, SC
10/4/97; Tinley Park, IL
10/3/98; Tinley Park, IL
9/12/99; Bristow, VA
9/17/00; Bristow, VA
9/29/01; Noblesville, IN
9/21/02; Burgettstown, PA
9/7/03; Columbus, OH
9/18/04; Seattle, WA
9/18/05; Tinley Park, IL
9/30/06; Camden, NJ
9/9/07; Randalls Island, NY
9/20/08; Mansfield, MA
10/4/09; St Louis, MO
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KUDOS
Q: Where did you get all of this information, anyway?
A: The following people also contributed information for the FAQ:
Philip Allen, Krista Attreau, Josh Auzins, Julie Bindi, Durk Brownlee, Brian Bruner, Tony Buechler, Matthew Bullis, Michael Buxton, Sharon Carone, Rob Conley, John Darner, Jonathan Dombrow, Jen F, Chris Jeffries, Chad Harvey, Lori Hoag, Bryon Jordon, Ben Kahn, Eric Kaplan, Matt Kennedy, Scott Kraul, Edoardo la Sala, Trevor Manning, Steve Markowitz, Ken McDermed, Lisa Modglin, Eileen H. Monti, Thane Phelan, Becky Porter, Joe C. Ruffin Jr., Toni Selinsky, Dawn Taggart, Michael Ticsay
*A special thank you to Sharon O'Grady, who provided us with the information on Spina Bifida. She has a child who was born with the disease and he wasn't as fortunate as John, as he's in a wheelchair.
If anyone was left out it was unintentional. This FAQ would not exist in this form without the input of these people.
If you have information that you feel would benefit the people on this list, e-mail it to JMTPfan @ aol.com and/or tony @ mellencamp.com (take out the spaces)
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