Paul Kelly Chats With John Ford Coley Before Havertown Show
102.9 MGK’s Paul Kelly sat down with double platinum Grammy Nominee John Ford Coley, formerly half of England Dan and John Ford Coley. John shared career stories, his book – Back Stage Pass – and his upcoming show this Saturday, May 27th, at Havertown’s Kelly Center:
The Kelly Center for Music, Arts and Community in Havertown, Haverford Township, PA is proud to welcome Grammy nominated singer/songwriter John Ford Coley for an intimate solo performance Saturday evening May 27, 2023 at 7:30 pm.
Relatable, resonating, prolific – three words that describe the works of the legendary John Ford Coley. His songs are soundtracks of the human experience, and his simple lyrics and unassuming presentation instantly transport us to moments in our lives when we shared similar thoughts and desires.
Over the years, he has shared the stage with such artists as Elton John, Fleetwood Mac, Chicago, Carole King, Bread, Loggins & Messina, Poco, Orleans, Lou Gramm, and Gordon Lightfoot, just to name a few. He has written and produced for other acts, including The Hollies, Eddie Money, Tom Wurth, Connie Smith, Rob Guest and Foss Doll, as well as corporate clients including Maxwell House Coffee and Dr. Pepper.
John Ford Coley is an American singer, guitarist, classically trained pianist, actor, and author. He is most revered as half of the Grammy nominated duo, England Dan and John Ford Coley, creating many memorable hits such as: “Love Is The Answer”, “Gone Too Far”, “I’d Really Love To See You Tonight”, “We’ll Never Have To Say Goodbye Again”, “Nights Are Forever Without You”, and “Sad To Belong”.
Born in Dallas, Texas, John grew up listening to the Grand Ole Opry and early rock and roll music. He also grew up singing church hymns and learning to play classical piano. When he was just 16 years old, he and schoolmate Dan Seals (1948-2009), joined the group Theze Few. Later, the band became Southwest F.O.B. and toured the Texas music scene. They had one hit in 1969, “The Smell of Incense”, which hit number 43 on the charts, and soon the band got to play on stage with Led Zeppelin and other acts.
Later becoming England Dan & John Ford Coley, the duo was signed by A&M Records, and their first break came in 1972 with the song “Simone”. After three albums, they were released from their contract with A&M, only to acquire another record deal from Atlantic Records’ subsidiary Big Tree Records two years later. They released the song “I’d Really Love to See You Tonight” and had four top ten hits and two top-twenty hits. Nominated for a Grammy Award, they received triple-platinum and gold records and released eight albums before disbanding in 1980. As part of the growing appreciation for smooth yacht rock music, John Ford Coley brings his Grammy winning style to the scene with love.
The Kelly Center is a listening room located at 4 E. Eagle Road, Havertown, PA 19083. This event will be limited to 100 guests. A small number of VIP tickets will be made available to fans who would like to arrive early for dinner and casual conversation with John Ford Coley.
Get information and tickets HERE.
The Kelly Center is owned and operated by 501c3 non-profit organization, Kelly Music for Life.
