I write songs in a variety of genres. I try to write tunes you can hum with words that matter. My voice (such as it is) tends to change the song I'm singing. At best you'd have to say I convey the pictures and emotions of the songs rather than indulging in vocal acrobatics, which I'm not really capable of.
In the 70s I accidentally (long story) enjoyed a successful career in New Zealand, having a number of Top 10 hits and winning awards for Songwriter ot the year and Album of the Year three years in succession. I then chose to drop out of the music world to do other things.
Around 2000 I went back into the studio because the need was in me again. I've since decided to leave my day job and concentrate on songwriting. I have no illusions about becoming a chart smashing recording artist, but hope to develop a small cult following. More importantly, I'd love others to record my songs.
I believe I write good songs, but you'll have to decide that for yourself.

Latest News

Well folks, after nearly three decades of lying low I'm finally stepping back into the public arena musically. Just released the first of three new CDs in New Zealand. It' called Just Quietly and you can hear samples of the songs at johnhanlon.com.au
Already getting some radio play and have press and TV interviews planned for late july. Here I go ... wish me luck.

Bio

http://www.sergent.com.au/johnhanlon.html

Comments

Author
Matia Dathen
over 30 days ago to John Hanlon

Hi John,
Just reviewed 'Playing it by Heart'. Great song. I forgot to tell you, you have this cool Harry Connick Jr. vibe to you.

Cheers,

Mike

1 Replies
 
John Hanlon
over 30 days ago

Thanks Mike. Not sure if that's very flattering to me or vaguely insulting to Harry :) delighted you enjoyed the song. Please drop into my website johnhanlon.com.au from time to tome to check out what I'm up to.
I'm about to check out your music now.
Havent even seen your review yet, however in assuming it will be encouraging.
Take care,
John



Author
Julie Vik
over 30 days ago to John Hanlon

Your review of 'that young child' was right down. Yes, the indulgent end. This is an unmastered version - left it up for sampling.



Author
Steve Low
over 30 days ago to John Hanlon

Thanks John for your review of my song Terror bone. I agree the arrangement is a bit casual. I grew up in Nelson NZ (and have returned there) so you were big on our radio back in the 70s. Damn the Dam was great. Your new songs sound equally as good. Good luck with your 2nd coming Steve

3 Replies
 
John Hanlon
over 30 days ago

Hi Steve, '2nd Coming' may be overstating it a bit :) I never stopped writing, mate, I just walked away from the stage. Have a gazillion new songs though and in some respects feel I have unfinished business. Would quite like to remind Kiwis of who I am and what I do, but I'm not at all sure anyone would care. You may see me travelling past with guitar in hand one day, or not. Anything is possible.
Take care, John

Steve Low
over 30 days ago

It is a fickle business and the new generations probably don't care about the past but for our generation you definitely have a kind of iconic status and a recognisable brand (trade mark sound) so I would have thought you could trade on your name quite a bit over here. These types of site are great at least for having a chance of getting music heard. I've found sound-cloud good with 4000 hits on 2 sites over 2011.

John Hanlon
over 30 days ago

It's all too hard for me to administrate Steve. I'm so busy with this and that. I have a great many songs but too little time. Plus, to be frank, I'm a bit of a Luddite when it comes to the internet. It seems every time I'm urged to go to a 'you beaut' music site another handful emerge. It's overwhelming :)
Might return to 'trade' on my name one day. It will be small, unambitious tiru playing old and new songs. Probably just me nd my guitar initially and if there is great interest, I'd up the ante for the second tour. It wont be until 2012 though. concentrating on promoting and marketing a book I've written this year.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rgXA8-NHdLU 1

Take care,

John



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