Musician, songwriter, singer, and all-round top bloke (as his friend Geoff Downes describes him), John Wetton lived a truly extraordinary life until his death five years ago…
John Wetton and Geoff Downes (photo credit Mike Inns)
John Wetton An Extraordinary Life features stories and tributes from more than seventy people who knew and worked with John – among them former bandmates in Family, King Crimson, Uriah Heep, Wishbone Ash, Roxy Music, U.K., Asia, the John Wetton solo band, and more.
Along with exclusive stories from John’s brother Robert, his son Dylan, and widow Lisa, are tales of love, friendship, music and sometimes craziness from those who truly knew him best. John’/s friends and family do not steer clear of his problems but explain the why, the how, and his triumph over them in honest and touching recollections. This is the story of John Wetton’s extraordinary life told by many for the first time in intimate testimony.
As Geoff Downes says “It’s hard to believe that we have arrived at the 5-year anniversary of John’s passing. Despite all the unexpected challenges the world is facing, here we are.
Dylan, Robert, and I look forward to sharing our own personal stories with you, as we carry him in our hearts every day. It is a pleasure also to share the personal recollections and never before told anecdotes-from earliest experiences right through to his last days. The incredibly moving response from the plethora of people that were involved in John’s life will give you new insights into the man behind the magnificent songwriter/performer that is John Wetton.
Today, let us forget about pandemics and politics, taxes and weather. Today, let’s all play our favourite John Wetton songs, raise a glass of cheer and think about these lyrics:
“All of the good times, and all of the bad Responsibility is totally mine I know I rightly stand accused But I believe that I can change Yes, I can change my world Go seize the day Wake up and say This is an extraordinary life Enjoy today Come what may This is an extraordinary life”.
Among the stories of friendship, music and craziness are reflections on what made John Wetton such an unforgettable man. Scattered among the stories are personal and classic photos of John at work & play which add to the celebration of An Extraordinary Life.