John’s Children were a 1960s rock band hailing from Leatherhead, England. Known for their explosive live performances and audacious antics, the band holds a unique place in the history of British rock. Despite a short-lived career, they left a lasting impact on the music scene and are often recognized as precursors to glam rock.
Origins of John’s Children
The Formation of the Band
John’s Children began in 1965 when drummer Chris Townson and singer Andy Ellison formed a group in Great Bookham, near Leatherhead, England. Initially named the Clockwork Onions, the band went through several iterations, including the Few and the Silence, before becoming John’s Children. The lineup solidified with Townson and Ellison, joined by guitarist Geoff McClelland and bassist John Hewlett.
Meeting Simon Napier-Bell
While performing in France in mid-1966, Townson crossed paths with Simon Napier-Bell, manager of The Yardbirds. Although Napier-Bell described the band as “positively the worst group I’d ever seen,” he agreed to manage them. He rebranded the group as John’s Children, naming them after bassist John Hewlett due to his musical inexperience—ensuring he wouldn’t be fired.
Napier-Bell transformed the band’s image, dressing them in white stage outfits and encouraging outrageous behavior to attract press attention. Their live performances included onstage fights, fake blood, feathers, and instrument destruction, leaving audiences in awe.
The Rise of John’s Children
Early Singles and Success
John’s Children signed with Columbia Records, an EMI subsidiary, and released their debut single, “Smashed Blocked/Strange Affair”, in late 1966. Despite using session musicians for the recording, the single made waves, reaching the US Billboard Hot 100 and achieving regional success in California and Florida.
Their second single, “Just What You Want – Just What You’ll Get/But You’re Mine”, featured a guitar solo by Jeff Beck of The Yardbirds. This track marked their first entry into the British Top 40.
The Infamous Album Orgasm
The band recorded their debut album, Orgasm, for their US label, White Whale Records. To create the illusion of a live recording, Napier-Bell added overdubbed screams from the A Hard Day’s Night soundtrack. However, the album’s provocative title led to its delay; White Whale shelved it for four years, releasing it only in 1971.
John’s ChildrenMarc Bolan Joins the Band
In 1967, Napier-Bell recruited Marc Bolan, a budding songwriter and guitarist, to replace McClelland. Bolan brought a fresh energy and contributed as the band’s primary songwriter. His first composition for the group, “Desdemona”, became a controversial hit, banned by the BBC for its risqué lyric, “Lift up your skirt and fly.” Bolan’s tenure, though brief, became one of the band’s most memorable periods.
The Band’s Wild Performances
Touring with The Who
John’s Children embarked on a German tour in April 1967, opening for The Who. Determined to stand out, they delivered chaotic performances involving Bolan whipping his guitar with chains, Townson attacking his drums, and Ellison diving into the audience after ripping open pillows filled with feathers.
Their antics caused a riot in Düsseldorf and nearly prevented The Who from performing in Ludwigshafen. The tour ended abruptly when The Who, frustrated with being upstaged, demanded their removal.
A Temporary Stint with The Who
Despite the turmoil, Chris Townson later filled in for The Who’s drummer, Keith Moon, during a UK tour in June 1967. Moon had injured himself during a performance, and Townson stepped in seamlessly, impressing audiences.
The Decline and Disbandment of John’s Children
Bolan’s Departure and Final Singles
Tensions arose when Bolan clashed with Napier-Bell over the production of their next single, “A Midsummer Night’s Scene”, leading to Bolan’s departure in June 1967. The single was never released, and the band reworked its B-side, “Remember Thomas à Becket”, into “Come and Play with Me in the Garden” as a replacement.
Without Bolan, Townson switched to guitar while Chris Colville joined as the drummer. The group recorded a few more tracks, including “Go Go Girl”, a Bolan composition later reimagined as “Mustang Ford” by his next band, Tyrannosaurus Rex.
Final Performances and Breakup
The band’s last major performance was at Hamburg’s Star-Club, where they substituted for the Bee Gees. Following a disastrous German tour, John’s Children disbanded in 1968, ending their brief but impactful run.
Legacy of John’s Children
Influence on Glam Rock
John’s Children’s theatricality, flamboyant image, and unapologetic attitude earned them a place as precursors to glam rock. Critics often cite their music as eccentric, irreverent, and ahead of its time. AllMusic described them as “pre-glam rockers,” and some historians even credit them as the first glam rock band.
Cult Following
Though commercially unsuccessful during their active years, John’s Children gained a cult following. Their limited discography—six singles and one album—became highly sought after by collectors. A rare copy of “A Midsummer Night’s Scene” sold for £3,700 at auction in 2002.
Critical Reassessment
Over time, critics have reappraised John’s Children. Music historian Richie Unterberger described them as an “interesting blip” on the psychedelic and mod scenes. Their raw energy, rebellious lyrics, and chaotic performances have since been recognised as influential in shaping the British rock landscape.
Musical Style
John’s Children’s sound was characterised by distorted guitars, feedback, and erratic drum patterns. Songs like “Jagged Time Lapse” and “Desdemona” showcase their unique style, blending frenzied instrumentation with flamboyant theatrics. Despite initial criticism, their music remains a testament to their unorthodox approach.
Conclusion: John’s Children’s Lasting Impact
John’s Children may have had a short career, but their impact resonates to this day. Known for their provocative performances and willingness to push boundaries, they carved out a niche in rock history. From their outrageous antics onstage to their influence on the glam rock movement, John’s Children continue to be celebrated by fans and collectors alike.
Their story is a reminder of the transformative power of music and the enduring appeal of those who dare to be different.
