Born October 7, 1951, in Seymour, Indiana, John Mellencamp encapsulates a true Hoosier. From a young age, he has fought for Small Towns, advocating for farming rights and family farming in his native state of Indiana. After leaving Seymour, Mellencamp attended Vincennes University before fully immersing himself in music.
Mellencamp started his first band Crepe Soul when he was just 14 years old. Traveling and playing local gigs for most of his teenage and college years, his big break did not come until 1982 when he released “American Fool,” His grammy winning album bolstered his career with the likes of “Jack & Diane” and “Hurts So Good”. From the release of American Fool through 1990, Mellencamp dominated the music charts, producing hit singles like “Small Town”, “Pink Houses”, and “R.O.C.K. in the USA.”
Rolling Stones author and Indiana University graduate Anthony Decurits, opened up about his relationship with Mellencamp throughout the years.
Mellencamp used painting and drawing as an escape from music. A true form of expression, he used his art when words were not enough to portray his political and social views on the world. Farming rights, social justice, and human rights were highlights of his artwork.
The Eskenazi Museum of Art was given the right to curate a collection, and until December 15, 2024, his work is on display inside the museum titled Crossroads.
John Mellencamp and his band performing Small Town during the unveiling ceremony of his statue on Indiana University Bloomington’s campus.
John Mellencamp donated his music and art archives along with all of his life work to the University last year during a symposium celebrating his achievements. After the donation, donors came together and the statue of Rock and Roll Hall of Famer was in the works. Michael McAuley who curated the statue of Hoagy Carmichael just a few feet away was comissioned and created the lifesize statue of rocked John Mellencamp in his famous pose holding the guitar.
Friends, family, and fans alike showed up to celebrate the dedication and unveiling of Mellencamp’s statue. Many fans remember growing up with his music and the impact he had not only on their taste in music, but also on their social and political beliefs. Mellencamp was not afraid to speak up on his beliefs and issues he believed in and he put those opinions and feelings into his music and artwork.
Forever a Hoosier John Mellencamp will be, and forever a place he will have in the beautiful flower garden next to the auditorium on Indiana University Bloomington’s campus.
