John Hanlon comes out of "hiding"

John Hanlon comes out of "hiding"

Award-winning artist releases beautiful new album

At least two generations of New Zealanders have been born since John Hanlon was a regular feature on our airwaves. Those old enough to remember him will recall songs like the iconic protest Damn the Dam, the soaring melody of Higher Trails and jaunty pop beat of Lovely Lady.

True fans would be aware that he dominated New Zealand’s Record Awards during the mid 70s collecting Album of Year and Songwriter of the Year awards three years in succession. A feat never achieved by any other artist before or since.

As well, he won the APRA Silver Scroll two years in succession.

Then, without so much as a polite goodbye, he walked away from the spotlight and virtually disappeared and little has been heard from him since.

Where did he go and why? And why has he now decided to step back into the musical arena after an absence of over 25 years?

Why would he choose to launch a series of three new albums now, when the record industry has been decimated and albums are rapidly becoming a thing of the past?

Will his new songs be relevant in this day and age?

According to John it’s not about him as an artist and has never been:

‘For me, it’s all about the songs. People will either like the songs — that is find something in the words and tunes they can hold onto — or they won’t.

I try to write timeless songs with words that matter and tunes you can hum. Age — my age or that of the audience — doesn’t come into it. Neither, at least not for me, will trends in music.

‘I’m going to approach each new album in the same way as an artist approaches an exhibition. Each one will be different, in style, mood, colour and content.

‘And, hopefully, people will come to appreciate I’m not a singer seeking stardom but a songwriter working hard at his craft for the enjoyment of anyone who cares to listen.’Ink ends

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