The Longest Johns
The Longest Johns: Masters of the Shanties
Origins and Early Days
The Longest Johns emerged from Bristol's vibrant folk scene in 2012. Consisting of four multi-instrumentalists: Jonny Rowan (vocals, guitar), Andrew Morgan (vocals, fiddle), Robbie Sattin (vocals, bouzouki), and Dave Robinson (vocals, concertina), the band quickly gained recognition for their captivating interpretations of traditional sea shanties and folk songs. They drew inspiration from the works of renowned shanty singers like Stan Rogers and A.L. Lloyd.
Challenges and Controversies
Like many rising bands, The Longest Johns faced their share of challenges. In 2017, they were accused of cultural appropriation for performing indigenous songs without appropriate acknowledgment. The band responded by engaging in dialogue with indigenous communities and making amends for their past actions.
Discography
The Longest Johns have released several acclaimed albums, including:
* Suo Gan (2014)
* Written in Salt (2017)
* Between the Jigs and the Reels (2018)
* Smoke & Oakum (2020)
* Midnight in the Trenches (2022)
Viral Success with "Wellerman"
In early 2021, The Longest Johns' rendition of the 19th-century whaling shanty "Wellerman" went viral on TikTok, propelling the band to international fame. The song became a global phenomenon, reaching the top 10 charts in multiple countries and spawning countless covers and parodies.
Members
* Jonny Rowan (Vocals, Guitar)
* Andrew Morgan (Vocals, Fiddle)
* Robbie Sattin (Vocals, Bouzouki)
* Dave Robinson (Vocals, Concertina)
Current Activities
The Longest Johns continue to tour extensively, captivating audiences with their infectious energy and authentic performances. They have collaborated with the BBC, the Royal Opera House, and other prestigious institutions. The band remains dedicated to preserving and revitalizing the tradition of sea shanties while also exploring new musical territories.
Origins and Early Days
The Longest Johns emerged from Bristol's vibrant folk scene in 2012. Consisting of four multi-instrumentalists: Jonny Rowan (vocals, guitar), Andrew Morgan (vocals, fiddle), Robbie Sattin (vocals, bouzouki), and Dave Robinson (vocals, concertina), the band quickly gained recognition for their captivating interpretations of traditional sea shanties and folk songs. They drew inspiration from the works of renowned shanty singers like Stan Rogers and A.L. Lloyd.
Challenges and Controversies
Like many rising bands, The Longest Johns faced their share of challenges. In 2017, they were accused of cultural appropriation for performing indigenous songs without appropriate acknowledgment. The band responded by engaging in dialogue with indigenous communities and making amends for their past actions.
Discography
The Longest Johns have released several acclaimed albums, including:
* Suo Gan (2014)
* Written in Salt (2017)
* Between the Jigs and the Reels (2018)
* Smoke & Oakum (2020)
* Midnight in the Trenches (2022)
Viral Success with "Wellerman"
In early 2021, The Longest Johns' rendition of the 19th-century whaling shanty "Wellerman" went viral on TikTok, propelling the band to international fame. The song became a global phenomenon, reaching the top 10 charts in multiple countries and spawning countless covers and parodies.
Members
* Jonny Rowan (Vocals, Guitar)
* Andrew Morgan (Vocals, Fiddle)
* Robbie Sattin (Vocals, Bouzouki)
* Dave Robinson (Vocals, Concertina)
Current Activities
The Longest Johns continue to tour extensively, captivating audiences with their infectious energy and authentic performances. They have collaborated with the BBC, the Royal Opera House, and other prestigious institutions. The band remains dedicated to preserving and revitalizing the tradition of sea shanties while also exploring new musical territories.
