John Ellis

Favorite

Born June 1st, 1952 in Kentish Town, London.

Guitarist & founding member of the British punk band The Vibrators.
During the 80's he worked as a studio & live musician for Peter Hammill & Peter Gabriel.
In the 90's he was a member of The Stranglers.

In the early days he studied Graphic Design at Middlesex University.
Other jobs include:
Film librarian for the British Film Institute.
Tree Surgeon.
Professional illustrator.

Music:
Formed Bazooka Joe, band members included Adam Ant. First Sex Pistols gig was as support to Bazooka Joe.
Formed THE VIBRATORS. Extensive recording and touring.
Released 2 solo singles, BABIES IN JARS and HIT MAN. Tracks now available on vinyl EP.
Played guitar in Jean-Jacques Burnel’s Euroband for UK tour.
Formed RAPID EYE MOVEMENT featuring HOT GOSSIP dancers and electronics. Supported Jean-Jacques Burnel’s Euroband on UK tour.
Joined PETER GABRIEL band for “China” tour and played on Gabriel’s 4th solo album.
Stood in for Hugh Cornwell for 2 shows by THE STRANGLERS at the Rainbow Theatre. Album from gig released.
Worked with German duo ISLO MOB on album and single.
Started working with PETER HAMMILL eventually doing many tours and recording on 7 albums.
Rejoined THE VIBRATORS for more recording and touring.
Recorded 2 albums under the name of PURPLE HELMETS with Jean-Jacques Burnel and Dave Greenfield of THE STRANGLERS.
Played additional guitar on THE STRANGLERS tour.
Joined THE STRANGLERS as full time member. Extensive touring and recording over 10 years.
Press officer for M11 Link Road campaign.
Started recording series of electronic instrumental albums as soundtracks for Art exhibitions. Released by Voiceprint.
Worked on JUDGE SMITH’S “CURLYS AIRSHIPS” project over 5 year period.
Left THE STRANGLERS to work in Internet business.
Experimental projects with American accordionist MICHAEL WARD-BERGEMAN.
Guitarist on “Jimi Hendrix Welsh National Anthem” hoax. Massive coverage.
Occasional session work and soundtrack composition.
Started teaching guitar.
More sessions for JUDGE SMITH.
Started doing live solo work using looping technology and laptop.
Created CHANOYU RECORDS to release solo work.
Worked in Europe doing live soundtrack improvisation, Masterclasses etc.
Formed DREAM DETECTIVES with German artist MOI. MOSER to create multi-media projects and performances.
John delivers monthly Blues Guitar workshops on behalf of THE INDYTUTE.
Currently developing a major multi-media guitar tuition project.