Questions to Star of the Show Clive John
How does it feel to play Johnny Cash on stage?
Big shoes to fill but I’m comfortable in them. Johnny had a lot of charisma and swagger but also darkness – it’s hard to get this right when everyone is looking at you and judging. Over the years I’ve just slipped in to a half and half person on stage where I feel more at ease being myself but in a Johnny Cash kind of way. I feel this is more respectful to Johnny and myself as a musician/singer/songwriter. Also a whole lot more real than trying to speak in a phony American accent for example.
Did you need to do much preparation before taking on the role?
After sound check I just brush my hair in to shape, iron two shirts (black for set 1 and white for set 2) out the suit and shoes on, tune guitar and then I’m sorted. I like to have a beer before the show also – just to loosen up a little.
What is your favourite Johnny Cash song/album and why?
A very commonly asked question this. I genuinely love ALL his songs and recordings but particularly like the songs he wrote himself. These songs seem to sit much more within my favourite category of song writing and also voice pitch for myself as a performer and writer. My favourite album over all is probably ‘Out Among The Stars’. The songs are all first class, Johnny’s voice was on peak form and the production (by his son John Carter Cash) is bang up to date and done with the upmost care and attention. I also of course love the prison albums too!
How have audiences reacted to the show so far?
Well it’s been going since 2005 and we’ve expanded all over Europe. We’ve NEVER had a negative review yet (fingers crossed for the future!) so it’s fair to say – so far so good!
To win tickets* for this show email the answer to the following question:
What was Johnny Cash’s Nickname?
email your answer along with your name and contact details to competition@westwaleschronicle.co.uk
*one lucky winner drawn at random will win a pair of tickets to the show. Competition ends Friday 1st June at 12pm.
Help keep news FREE for our readers
Supporting your local community newspaper/online news outlet is crucial now more than ever. If you believe in independent journalism, then consider making a valuable contribution by making a one-time or monthly donation. We operate in rural areas where providing unbiased news can be challenging. Read More About Supporting The West Wales Chronicle
