John’s back in town

March 19, 2010

It’s not an unusual story; much of what Drumchapel born and bred singer-songwriter John Condron has been through is something most either have already, or will have to at some point.
But it’s that universality that makes John’s music so powerful – he shoots from the hip and sings from the heart.
He said: ‘My music is all about me. Maybe that sounds egotistical, but that’s what makes me write songs.
‘When I write a song it’s a moment in time, almost like a diary, it helps me deal with real life.
‘Some of best stuff spills out onto the page when I’ve been drinking the night before and when heavy stuff is going on in my life.’
John moved to Oxford four years ago this month, after splitting up with his then girlfriend. Things were going well for the 27-year-old – a series of gigs and live radio performances on BBC Berkshire – looked to have John on the path to a successful music career….
But his stay in England was cut short when his father was diagnosed with cancer and he returned home just before last Christmas.
He ‘s made quite a noise for himself down south, but feels that Glasgow is an altogether tougher nut to crack.
He said: ‘I still don’t feel like a proper musician, up here anyway… Maybe that’s a feeling you get in being from Glasgow, where you’re not to encouraged to boast.
‘But this city is awash with talent. It’s amazing.
‘I’m just trying to make my mark in Glasgow, but things move so fast up here.
‘Down south I’m Scottish and I do my own thing – I’m a bit different.
‘But in Glasgow I’m just another guy with a guitar at the moment.’
John admitted that for his father’s condition he is just glad to be back in Glasgow.
He added: ‘They said that they won’t be able to cure my Dad, but just to be around and help him with simple things is good.’
John Condron plays McCuills on Thursday, March 25.