An Interview with Poetry Writer and Producer, John Cheetham - AKA - UK Bloke
We sat down and shared a chocolate bar or two with the inspiring John Cheethem, known as that UK Bloke in the music industry. What made you want to become a poetry/song writer? I didn’t plan to become a poet/ songwriter although, I’ve always been interested in music/songs from a lyrics point of view. What accomplishments do you see yourself achieving in the next five to 10 years? I hope to see one of my songs in the charts either, in the U.K. or USA. That would be wonderful. What strengths do you have that you believe make you a great poetry/song writer? I think that my strengths are that I listen. My incident gave me great patience. Which instrument is your favourite to play? The piano is the only instrument that I can play although, I’m not great. I was once given the opportunity to play Scott Joplin’s piano. My performance was not good!
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LANCASHIRE & NORTH WEST MAGAZINE
What is it about music that makes you feel passionate? Words are emotional are I like the fact that simple words can awaken emotions either good or bad. Describe your creative process when you write new music. I write lyrics first. Then, try to add the melody. That is the strength of a good music partnership when, one partner is good at lyrics and one at melodies. Lennon & McCartney for example. Who’s your ideal musician to collaborate with? Chris Rea would be a favourite of mine to collaborate with, then Elton John and Bruce Springsteen. Are there any musicians who inspire you? What qualities do you admire about them? Elton John inspired me with “I’m still standing“ from his Too Low for Zero album. As you know I was involved in a serious incident that, resulted in me being unable to walk for a long time. Elton’s “I’m still standing“ inspired me to try and walk again when four hospitals had said that I probably wouldn’t. It worked and, the song is still a favourite.
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