Starting with a Bang: In 1984, John accompanied close friends George Michael and Andrew Ridgeley of Wham! to film the now-iconic Christmas video in Switzerland. He described it as a surreal experience for a 21-year-old, filled with fun and friendship.
Working with Wham: After the band split in 1986, Andrew offered John a role as his personal assistant and “fixer,” which involved extensive travel between Monte Carlo and Los Angeles.
Tour Management: John transitioned to tour management, handling logistics for major artists, including a Michael Jackson tour in the 90s, which featured jaw-dropping encore stunts.
Mentorship in Media
- John is passionate about helping young people navigate the noisy and competitive media landscape.
- Website & Process: He encourages aspiring media professionals to visit his portal, jfmediamentor.com, where they can fill out a form to seek mentorship.
- Advice for Beginners:
- Work collaboratively with others and join local groups or clubs.
- Engage with school teachers, especially music teachers, who can offer guidance.
- Attend live events and participate in open mic nights to gain real-world experience.
Changes in the Media Landscape
- Then vs. Now: The media landscape in the 80s had limited channels for success, such as “Top of the Pops” and print media. Today, opportunities have expanded exponentially with digital platforms like Spotify.
- Challenges: Despite the vast number of platforms, the pyramid to success is steeper, with intense competition and a lack of quality control.
- Essential Skills: John emphasized the importance of building genuine connections, seeking guidance from trusted mentors, and stepping outside the digital bubble for authentic engagement.
