For centuries, musicians have used their artform to show their allegiance to people and causes they believe in. Whether in support of political, religious or cultural agendas, those at the top or those forgotten by society, a stirring anthem raises awareness and helps to bring new followers into the fold.
 
When Johnny Cash first performed “Man In Black” it was to a college campus audience who had never heard it before. Indeed, the song was so new that Cash needed cards to remind him of the revised lyrics that he’d been working on just before the show. He quietly introduced it as “the way I feel about a lot of things”, understating the passion behind the song. As he played the last chord the crowd rose to their feet, and Johnny Cash became known as The Man In Black.
 
Almost half a century later, “The Man In Black”, both the song and the performer, still resonate. The Johnny Cash Roadshow, the only tribute show to be endorsed by the Cash family, have been delighting audiences for over 15 years, including sell-out shows in the UK, Europe and beyond. Fronted by multi-award winning singer, songwriter and producer Clive John this truly unmissable show is back for 2021/22 with ‘From the Ashes Tour’, a new show celebrating the light and shade of Cash’s repertoire. The Spirit Band (Clive’s band) has also been revamped and you simply won’t see better.
 
While Clive’s rich baritone pays a superb homage to Johnny, the show wouldn’t be complete without the complementary vocals of Meghan Thomas who has recently joined The Johnny Cash Roadshow as Cash’s wife June Carter. They make a convincing pair. Caitlin Crowell, granddaughter of Johnny and June was “in awe of how incredible the performances were. Clive captures my Grandfather JUST as he was” and Johnny’s eldest daughter Rosanne Cash is equally impressed, saying of Clive, “His resemblance is uncanny”.
 
For a show to deserve accolades like those collected by Johnny Cash Roadshow, it needs more than just strong lead vocals. The accomplished band bring to life all the hits, including ‘Ring Of Fire’, ‘A Thing Called Love’ and ‘Walk The Line’, not to mention their unbelievable versions of the later ’Hurt’ and ‘The Man Comes Around’. The Roadshow Horns bring their brass sparkle alongside keyboard, rhythm guitar and backing vocals. On selected shows there are also ‘The Carter Sisters’ bringing their sparkle with extra layers of vocal harmonies.
 
When it comes to standing up and being counted, there is no doubt what Clive John and the Johnny Cash Roadshow believe in: putting on a big show that transports audiences back in time and always leaves them on their feet and wanting more. 
 

Cash endorsement quotes  -

‘His Resemblance is uncanny’ – Rosanne Cash, first daughter

‘Clive captures my Grandfather JUST as he was’
Caitlin Crowell - Granddaughter of Johnny Cash
 
‘Absolutely authentic to the point where it felt as if it wasn't a tribute’
Caitlin Crowell - Granddaughter of Johnny Cash
 
'Clive sings moves and acts just like the 'Man in Black.' The Johnny Cash legend will continue.... Lasse Lindfors - Author and lifelong friend of Johnny Cash
 
 
Press Reviews
 
‘A voice better than the original’ (John Wheatcroft, York Mix)                   
 
‘Extraordinary concert’ (Daily Record and Sunday Mail)
 
‘the closest we will get to attending a Johnny Cash concert. We should be grateful for this opportunity’ (The Edge, Bournemouth)
 
‘What an amazing show, you could have sworn that Johnny Cash was there with you’ ***** (The Ironworks, Inverness)
 
‘Clive John was mesmerizing as the Man in Black’ (John Carter, New Theatre, Oxford)
 
‘Energetic and entertaining 5 Star show’ What’s on stage
 
‘Pull out all the stops to see Clive John and his show it is one which is exciting, memorable and quite frankly, unforgettable. ‘ (Carol Lovatt, Whats on, Birmingham)