John Herring

John Herring

John Herring is a singer-songwriter from the United Kingdom, raised on an estate in Salford. His music is shaped by a wide range of influences from childhood listening, including Bacharach and David and Tchaikovsky, and by an early classical background. Strings and piano appear regularly in his recordings, alongside acoustic songwriting and references to the urban street scenes in which he grows up.

Recording and release

Herring spends the first half of 2009 recording his album Tales From a Northern City, which is recorded and released in July 2009 at Blueprint Studios, the home of Elbow. He co-produces the album with Gary Hadfield, who has worked with The Courteeners and The Twang.

Collaborators and musicians

The album brings together a number of musicians and songwriters, including Jason Dunkley, That Girl Sue, Phil Davies and Mike Kneafsey. It also features Tim Thomas on drums, Martin Roberts on bass, and Bob Buller on cello. Herring says the involvement of these musicians broadens the scope and appeal of the record.

Style and reception

People who work with Herring describe his music as honest, organic and earthy. The album keeps strong acoustic undertones while drawing on his background and city life. A full-band performance launches the release to an audience of around 200 fans, critics and fellow musicians.

Broadcast and comparisons

Herring appears regularly on a regional radio network and is named Artist of the Week on BBC Radio Manchester Introducing. His music is compared with Elbow, The Blue Nile, Roddy Frame, John Martyn, Doves, Peter Gabriel and The Smiths.

Press comments

Coverage describes Tales From a Northern City as a significant step in the rise of a major songwriting talent from the region, and notes its melodic, unforced character.