John George Turnbull, born on 27 August 1950 in Newcastle upon Tyne, England, is a highly accomplished guitarist and singer, celebrated for his contributions to pop and rock music.
Known for his versatility and distinctive style, Turnbull has been a key figure in numerous influential bands and projects throughout his career.
Turnbull’s musical journey began in the 1960s, playing with bands such as Skip Bifferty, The Chosen Few, and Arc. These early experiences helped him hone his craft and establish himself as a talented guitarist.
He later joined Loving Awareness and Glencoe, further showcasing his ability to adapt to different musical styles.
In the 1980s, Turnbull became a member of Ian Dury and the Blockheads, a role he continues to hold today. His work with the Blockheads has been pivotal, contributing to their unique sound and enduring popularity.
Turnbull has also collaborated with a wide range of artists, including Nick Lowe, Dave Stewart and the Spiritual Cowboys, Eurythmics, Talk Talk, Londonbeat, Paul Young, Bob Geldof, and World Party. His versatility as a musician is evident in his ability to seamlessly transition between genres and projects.
Turnbull’s talents extend beyond live performances and studio recordings. He has contributed to film soundtracks, most notably the 1971 classic Get Carter, starring Michael Caine. His work in this realm highlights his ability to create evocative and memorable music that enhances visual storytelling.
A testament to his enduring influence, Turnbull is one of the few artists to have performed at both Live Aid in 1985 with Paul Young and Live 8 in 2005 with Bob Geldof. These performances underscore his commitment to using music as a force for positive change.
