John Mellencamp

John Mellencamp

John Mellencamp is an American singer-songwriter from Seymour, Indiana, born in 1951. He is associated with rock, classic rock, americana, aor, folk rock, heartland rock, pop, and pop rock, and he maintains a long recording and performing career.

Career

He first records under the stage name Johnny Cougar, a name used at the insistence of his first manager, Tony DeFries. Mellencamp says he does not know about the name change at the time and dislikes the name. He gains wider recognition in 1982 with the album American Fool, which includes the hit singles “Hurts So Good” and “Jack and Diane”. At this point he is still using the John Cougar name.

In 1983, with the album Uh-Huh, he restores his family name and becomes known as John Cougar Mellencamp. By 1987, with The Lonesome Jubilee, he drops “Cougar” entirely and uses John Mellencamp.

Songwriting, labels and associated acts

His releases are connected with Belmont Mall Publishing. The verified record of associated acts includes Buzzin' Cousins, John Cougar and the Zone, Streethart, and The Tiger Force Band.

Public work and beliefs

Mellencamp is noted for his involvement with Farm Aid, the charity event. He is also politically active and supports the Vote for Change tour in 2004 in opposition to the policies of President George W. Bush. He speaks publicly about his evangelical Christian faith and his belief in non-violence.