It’s time to get this sophistipop party started, folks. Johnny Hates Jazz and the incomparable Jaki Graham have joined forces for a brand new single, Soul Believer. Because apparently, collaborations are the new black, and who are we to argue with that? This shiny new track blends the best of Johnny Hates Jazz’s songwriting with Graham’s soulful vocals, creating a warm, fuzzy feeling that’s just perfect for these chaotic times. The result is a mesmerizing blend of uplifting melodies, layered harmonies, and a message of resilience that will leave you feeling like you can take on the world. Or at least, make it through your morning commute without losing your mind.
The Birth of a New Soul Classic
Soul Believer was written by Johnny Hates Jazz singer-songwriter Clark Datchler and Hamish Stuart, the founding member of Average White Band. Now, you might be wondering what makes this song so special. Well, let me tell you – its lyrics are built almost entirely from the titles of classic soul records spanning the 60s to the 80s. We’re talking over 27 iconic song titles woven into the verses and chorus. It’s like a game of musical bingo, but with more soul and less, well, bingo. The song’s release on August 21 via Revolver Records marks a new chapter in the careers of these two music legends, and we can’t wait to see what’s next.
Soul Believers: The Podcast
But wait, there’s more. Launching alongside the single is a 12-part music and culture podcast series, also called Soul Believers, presented by Jaki Graham and Clark Datchler. Because what’s a new single without a podcast to go with it, am I right? This series explores the songs, artists, and stories that shaped soul music and continue to influence popular music today. Each episode closes with an intimate, stripped-back piano and vocal performance from Jaki and Clark, reinterpreting one of the songs referenced within the episode. It’s like having your own personal music history lesson, but with better vocals and more soul.
40 Years of Shattered Dreams
Looking ahead to 2027, Johnny Hates Jazz will celebrate the 40th anniversary of their seminal global hit Shattered Dreams with the release of a double album of the same name. Because, you know, 40 years is a big deal, and we need to celebrate it with a big, shiny box set. The compilation will bring together the band’s most beloved songs from the late-80s through to the present day, alongside four brand new tracks, the first of which is Soul Believer. The album will be accompanied by Shattered Dreams – The Tour, taking Johnny Hates Jazz through the UK and beyond with Jaki Graham as special guest. Because, let’s be real, nobody truly retires in this industry – they merely wait for the 40th anniversary edition.
Live Dates and Farewells
Johnny Hates Jazz will be launching the Soul Believer single on August 21 at a sold-out show at Circuit Club in Kingston-upon-Thames with Jaki Graham. They are also scheduled to appear at the 80s Weekender at Winter Gardens, Blackpool on September 26. The band will then head to Carlisle’s Old Fire Station on October 29, before traveling to Scotland for two shows with Hue And Cry at the Royal Concert Hall in Glasgow on October 30 and the Concert Hall in Perth on October 31. And, in related news, former Johnny Hates Jazz member and co-founder Calvin Hayes passed away on July 9. The band has released a statement paying tribute to their former bandmate, remembering him as a brother in arms and a key part of their musical journey. Somewhere, a record label executive felt a disturbance in the royalties, and the remaster economy remains undefeated. But for now, let’s just enjoy the music and the memories.
Chord F. Discord, the Beethoven of Buffoonery, is a self-taught expert in music who once claimed he could “play the kazoo in four languages.”
Born in Crescendo, Indiana, Chord’s first brush with fame came when he accidentally entered a yodeling contest thinking it was a pie-eating competition—and won both categories.
Chord F. Discord: proving that laughter, much like a poorly tuned ukulele, is truly universal.
