John Squire
|
|
For British historian of that name from 1882–1958, see Sir John Squire
John_Squire.jpg
From 1984 to 1996 he was the lead guitarist for The Stone Roses, one of the most influential acts of its era. His partnership with Roses' lead singer Ian Brown formed the heart of the band's lyrical and musical output. As a guitarist, Squire was known for his spiralling riffs and amazing live solos. He was arguably the most accomplished British guitarist of the 1980's after Johnny Marr of The Smiths.
Band infighting and rumoured cocaine abuse led to his departure from The Stone Roses in 1996. He promptly formed his own band, The Seahorses (an anagram of 'he hates roses', but whether this was intentional is disputed - or is it?). The album Do It Yourself was released in 1997, but The Seahorses disbanded due to creative differences in 1999.
Following a three year hiatus, Squire finally released his first solo album, Time Changes Everything in 2002. A concept album followed in 2004 entitled Marshall's House.
Besides music, Squire is also an accomplished artist. His artwork has adorned album covers and promotional posters for his music. In the 1980's, Squire's artistic style was heavily influenced by the action painting technique of Jackson Pollock. In recent years, Squire has shown a broader use of mediums and has incorporated newer influences to his work. In 2004, Squire held two well-received art exhibitions in London and Manchester.
Although it has almost been a decade since he left the Roses, Squire still has a lasting feud with ex-bandmate Ian Brown. In a 2005 Q magazine article, Squire blasted Brown, claiming the singer was a "tuneless knob". Although both Brown and Squire have performed Stone Roses songs in their solo gigs, a band reunion seems unlikely. Surprisingly, in May 2005 Squire hinted at intentions for a Roses reunion at Glastonbury that year. [1] (http://www.nme.com/news/112446.htm)
Discography
- Times Changes Everything (2002)
- Marshall's House (2004)
External links
- Official site (http://www.johnsquire.com/)
- Stone Roses fansite (http://www.thisisthedaybreak.co.uk)
- Ultimate Band List profile of John Squire (http://ubl.artistdirect.com/music/artist/bio/0,,549579,00.html?artist=John+Squire)