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Biographie
Born in the severely un-rock and roll settings of Cleveland, Ohio, Marc Cohn has a backstory that would put steel in anyone’s soul. His mother died when he was two years old and his father passed when he was twelve, so he found solace in music, writing songs while learning to play guitar by the time he was in junior high school. By the time he reached college he’d diversified into playing the piano as well, and after he transferred from the Oberlin College of his native Ohio to the University of California, Los Angeles, he started playing solo shows around the campus’ local coffee houses.
Once he started to pick up a strong reputation in L.A, he moved to New York City to try and make a career out of music. At first he worked as a demo artist, taking songs by everyone from Jerry Webb to Leiber and Stoller and recording them to be shopped around record labels, before taking a job as a backing vocalist. He tooled around behind the scenes of the music industry, appearing as a singer on various records including an album of songs from Starlight Express in 1987, but in 1989 he found a more dignified gig as Tracy Chapman’s backing pianist. It was while performing with her that a demo CD of his piano playing, voice and songs fell into the hands of Atlantic Records, resulting in a contract with them soon afterwards.
No-one could have foreseen just how successful Cohn would become. His debut single “Walking In Memphis”, was released in 1991 and was an absolute smash hit, peaking at number 13 on the Billboard Hot 100. Propelled by the success of “Walking In Memphis”, his self-titled debut album was certified Gold within a year of its release and he netted the Best New Artist award at the following year’s Grammy Awards. In terms of commercial success this arguably set Cohn for life, as he never reached those heights again, but who would? He saw out the rest of the year releasing acclaimed albums to a devoted fanbase, and even had the mighty Cher cover “Walking In Memphis” for a single in 1995.
Cohn’s story turned horrific in 2005 after he was shot in the head during an attempted carjacking, in Denver, Colorado. Astonishingly, the bullet struck him in the temple and didn’t penetrate his skull, so he was hospitalised for a night and released the next day. He’s released two new studio albums since the event and remains the poster boy for the best kind of one hit wonder. He has his one hit that everyone knows and loves, but there is also a lot to love in everything released after his time near the top of the charts. Also, now that he’s in his fourth decade performing, few people can put on a live show of his calibre. For that, Mark Cohn comes highly recommended.
Avis
It’d be easy to admire Marc Cohn just purely because he’s surely one of the only people in history to survive being shot in the head at point-blank range - in a failed carjacking attempt in Denver in 2005 - but there is, of course, much more to him than that, including a highly successful songwriting career. His 1991 debut album, which was self-titled, contained a slew of hits, including his signature song, ‘Walking in Memphis’, which went on to be covered by the likes of Cher and Lonestar and helped to guarantee Cohn the Grammy award for Best New Artist in 1992. Since then, he’s continued to record and tour, with his most recent album, 2010’s Listening Booth: 1970, featuring a selection of his favourite tracks from that year. He hasn’t toured the UK in quite some time, but he retains a significant cult fanbase over here; in the States, though, he played extensively across the country last year, playing shows that leant heavily on his classic 1991 album and also including a few cuts from across his impressive catalogue; he’s now well overdue for another record, so perhaps he’ll break his UK absence when that does drop, probably sooner rather than later.
Joeg_67
I have been waiting to see Marc Cohn live since his first album in 1991. I was not disappointed. Having seen most of my music heroes live, I can honestly say that this, at Union Chapel London, is probably one of the best concerts I have been to.
Marc came across as avery sincere person and a very professional artist. In addition to the excellent sound quality, he engaged the audience throughout, with dialogue and explanations of the stories behind the songs.
Having not played the UK for, I think 18 years, he was I think, somewhat nervous about how well he would be received. He was rewarded with a raptorous response and he was clearly appreciative and responded with warmth and passion.
At he end he said "I'm not going anywhere, so if you want to talk, have autographs, I will be out front at the end of the show." There was large queue! He said he will be back next year. So will I!
chsteb10
This show was fantastic! Marc Cohn never disappoints. There are many reasons he’s my favorite singer/songwriter but last night’s show showcased two of them specifically: his versatility in making his music sounds brand new and different without losing the quality that makes me love it and ALWAYS introducing me to new artists. I had never heard of Robert Cray or The Blind Boys of Alabama before they played with Marc Cohn - and I really enjoyed both of them. The gospel sound of the Boys harmonized well with Marc Cohn and their onstage presence and enthusiasm made the experience that much better. I look forward to the album coming out in August! And Robert Cray was great! The range of his voice, his skill on guitar and interaction with the audience was great. Anyone who even remotely likes blues/jazz/soul will (and probably does) love him. HIGHLY RECOMMEND THIS TOUR AND THESE ARTISTS.
megan-timmins
My wife and I thoroughly enjoyed the concert last night. Marc was in fine voice and his band played great. He played a myriad of his songs from throughout his career. In between songs, Marc was very personable and displayed a playful, amusing banter while talking with the audience. The City Winery is a wonderful place to hear a concert (great acoustics), not to mention that the food and wine were excellent!
Al Winkler
aborbeau
Great show! One of the opening acts, Chelsea Williams, was fantastic, and took part in a few songs with Cohn. Also, David Crosby showed up and graced the audience with a solo song, accompanied on the piano by his son!
Marc Cohn himself was amazing, performing all the songs I hoped to hear: Silver Thunderbird, Walking in Memphis, and (most hoped for) True Companion. All in all a wonderful and memorable evening!
JimHodge
Fabulous show!!! The combination of Marc and The Blind Boys is unmatched. Pianist and percussionist were fabulous. Tears, laughter, moving. So much feeling, so much rhythm, so much soul. Thanks. Please come through again!
I hat an excellent show! Marc is an amazing storyteller and musician. He was interactive, funny and truly happy to be onstage performing to an appreciative audience. I highly recommend seeing him.
jenlehman
In a word, Exceptional! First time I have had the pleasure of hearing him perform. Love his music and he's still got it! Great intimate venue for his style. Thunderbird was outstanding!!
vancecarroll
As always Marc Cohn never disappoints! To his musical talent and great storytelling.
We ❤ us some Marc Cohn!
Can't wait until you are back in the Land of 10,000 Lakes!
ellenberg67
