About

SNG Live & Edge Street Live present
Dr John Cooper Clarke with Special Guest Mike Garry

POET; TV & RADIO PRESENTER; CULTURAL COMMENTATOR;

Literary phenomenon John Cooper Clarke is a British cult hero. Known as the
'Godfather of Punk Poetry" and the original people's poet, John's cultural influence spans literature, music and fashion. From creating some of the most iconic poetry of the
modern era, including the world's most popular wedding poem "I Wanna Be Yours" (recently celebrating over a billion streams in its incarnation as a hit record by the Arctic
Monkeys) to sharing his life story through his 120k selling memoir of the same name.

His poetry features in the UK national curriculum syllabus.

In 2025 John became the first poet to headline an arena at Co-op Live in Manchester.

John's live show is a chance to see one of the world's most important and entertaining spoken word artists at his bold and brilliant best.

John's best selling poetry collection, WHAT, was released in paperback on February 13th 2025.

"One of Britain's outstanding poets"
- Sir Paul McCartney

"Fantastically entertaining. As a writer of comic prose Clarke is the match of anyone alive, and his turns
of phrase are as sharp as his suits"
- The Times

"An immensely entertaining memoir that fizzes with wit...It's impossible not to hear him read every word
aloud in your head with that unforgettable Manc drawl"
- NME

"Riveting"
-The Observer