The Life & Lyrics of Jonn Penney: an in conversation

Jonn Penney has written a lyric book, because that’s where he is at: “I might like to show off and demand attention on stage, but writing a book is a different beast. Talking constantly about myself is not exactly my idea of fun, so I decided to write a lyric book instead - because my words in our songs are what I am most proud of. Hopefully, by reflecting on those words, I can reveal to Neds fans what was happening with the band and my own life at specific times in our story… and why.’
Happily, while reviewing the origins of the songs, Jonn has also been able to recant a candid tale or two: “I'm told that some folk want to read this stuff… and it's actually been a real treat to reflect on my experiences. I’ve always felt like an 'accidental rock star', because almost all of these words just seemed to pour out of me automatically in those various studios and rehearsal rooms. I didn't feel like I was driving the words as they emerged, it felt like I'd accidentally burped them out.”
“I didn't keep diaries and so while writing this book, I only had traces of feelings that I had back then for reference; I'm a 50-something, reflecting on what happened (well, what my memory tells me happened) with a 50-something perspective. So that's what this book is: simply a reflection.’
If you are a fan of Ned’s Atomic Dustbin and had time amongst the beautiful chaos to appreciate Jonn’s words… if you ever wondered what Jonn was writing about… what his life was like during his blessed Neds existence and, essentially, who Jonn Penney actually is… then this book is for you.

Copies of Jonn's book will be available to purchase at the event and there'll be a dedicated book signing afterwards.

About the Author:

As the singer and lyricist for 90s indie rock band, Ned's Atomic Dustbin, Jonn Penney found his ‘happy place’ on stage, during the hundreds of rabidly supported gigs across the globe that the band played in the first half of the decade.

Away from the white-hot spotlight of touring and releasing albums, Jonn created the vocal melodies and penned 99% of his lyrics in rehearsal rooms with his four band-mates, instantaneously inspired by their uniquely energised riffs and hooks.

His telling observations in rhyme on all manner of both personal and vicarious subjects saw him create a body of lyrical work that poignantly reflects his humble, down-to-earth and deeply introspective personality.

Neds had three indie single hits in 1990, followed by two Top Twenty singles and a #4 album in 1991. More Top 20 singles and albums followed in 1992, before the band split following the release of a third album in 1995. When all five original members of the band reformed in 2006, Jonn was once again able to visit that happy place on stage, singing his words to unswervingly loyal fans, articulating his gently pensive yet at times bitingly insightful thoughts.

These days, Jonn is content with his ‘accidental rockstar’ lot; he also enjoys Earl Grey tea, dark beers, dark chocolate and making light of a world that tries to dim us all down.

Know what’s Happening Next — before everyone else does.

Get App

Host or Publisher Louder Than Words Festival