John Denton: A United Kingdom Young Talent Making Waves

Interview Indie Artist, John Marr, Johnny Marr, Manchester, Rock Music, UK, United Kingdom TPA 2025-02-09

A Rising Indie Music Star from the UK

John Denton, a 14-year-old singer/songwriter from Salford (Greater Manchester, England), has already established himself as a force to be reckoned with in the music industry. Despite his young age, his heartfelt lyrics, captivating melodies, and distinct musical style have garnered him national attention. Featured in NME, Far Out, Granada Reports, BBC 5 Live, BBC Radio Manchester, and XS Manchester, John has proven that his talent speaks for itself.

His journey took a significant leap in 2023 when he won the prestigious Johnny Marr Award. This incredible achievement brought him not only recognition but also the mentorship and support of the legendary Johnny Marr himself. This moment cemented John's place as a promising artist with a bright future ahead.

Musical Beginnings and Early Success

John first gained recognition as the frontman of the band The Height. With his leadership, the band released several singles that collectively amassed over 25,000 streams. His music resonated with a growing audience, helping him build a substantial online following. With 1.7k followers on X (formerly Twitter), around 600 followers on Instagram, and tens of thousands of plays on TikTok, John’s reach continues to expand.

Not the Same – A Bold Debut

John’s debut single, Not the Same, is an indie anthem that immediately caught the attention of listeners. The track delivers a relentless guitar rhythm paired with introspective lyrics about inequality and the pressures of modern life. The song reflects the universal struggle of comparing oneself to others and the mental health implications that come with it. His distinctive style, likened to a mix of The Courteeners and The Smiths, stays true to his Salfordian roots and resonates deeply with his audience.

Electrifying Live Performances

John’s dynamic stage presence and ability to connect with an audience have allowed him to perform at renowned venues across the UK, including:

Manchester Academy
Liverpool Cathedral
33 Oldham St (Manchester)
Peace Hall (Halifax)
Network (Sheffield)
Kaizier Stockroom (Liverpool)

With each performance, John solidifies his reputation as a must-see act, captivating crowds with his raw energy and passion for music.

Embracing the Solo Journey

John is now embarking on a solo career, set to release new singles in 2025. While transitioning from a band to a solo act can be daunting, John has embraced this change with resilience and determination. His solo work is eagerly anticipated, promising to deliver the emotive and powerful music that fans have come to love.

The Challenge of Going Solo

After parting ways with The Height, John faced the challenge of starting over as a solo artist. Reflecting on this transition, he acknowledges the difficulties of losing the camaraderie of a band while also gaining the freedom to shape his own artistic direction. Although the change was tough, John remains optimistic about the future and aims to build a new band around him in the future.

Lessons Learned in the Music Industry

John’s journey has taught him invaluable lessons:

Resilience is Key – The music industry is unpredictable. When things are going well, support is abundant. However, during slower periods, true supporters reveal themselves. John has learned to push forward despite the setbacks.
Surround Yourself with Good People – Trusting the right people is essential. Whether it’s friends, family, or mentors, having a solid support system is crucial. At the same time, knowing the difference between genuine supporters and those looking for personal gain is equally important.
Love What You Do – Whether playing to 10 people or 1,000, John reminds himself to enjoy every moment. Music is his passion, and his love for the craft keeps him going through the ups and downs.

Johnny Marr’s Influence

One of the most defining moments of John’s career so far has been winning the support of Johnny Marr. Hearing the legendary musician speak about him on national radio and in the press gave John a boost in confidence and credibility. His journey serves as a reminder that while hard work and grassroots promotion are essential, keeping an eye out for big breaks can open doors that once seemed out of reach.

Looking Ahead

With a promising solo career ahead, new music on the horizon, and an ever-growing fanbase, John Denton is set to make an even bigger impact on the music world. His talent, passion, and resilience ensure that his journey is only just beginning. As he continues to evolve as an artist, one thing is clear – John Denton is a name that the world will be hearing for years to come.