John Mellencamp

Bio:
John Mellencamp (born on October 7, 1951 in Seymour, Indiana) also known as John Cougar Mellencamp is an American musician, singer-songwriter and actor. John formed his first band, Crepe Soul, at the age of 14 and eloped with his pregnant girlfriend, Priscilla Esterline, when he was 18. John attended Vincennes University, graduating in 1974. After doing odd jobs in Seymour, John relocated to New York City to pursue a career in music. His first manager, Tony DeFries, suggested that John’s first album released under the stage name Johnny Cougar. After struggling in the late 1970s, John found success in 1982 when his songs “Hurts So Good” and “Jack & Diane” were certified hits. John added his real name, Mellencamp, to his stage name and in 1983, followed up his success with the album Uh-Huh. The record featured hits “Pink Houses” and “Crumblin’ Down.” In the 1990s, John dropped the “Cougar” from his name. He continued to record and perform. In addition to music, John has an acting career, appearing in four films: Falling From Grace, Madison, After Images and Lone Star State of Mind. He claims he turned down a role in Thelma and Louise that went to Brad Pitt.

Best Known For:
John Mellencamp is best known as an American musician, writing and performing the hit songs “Jack & Diane” and “Pink Houses.”

Personal Life:
John is very active in politics. John divorced Priscilla Esterline in 1981. They have a daughter, Michelle, together. From 1981 to 1989, he was married to Victoria Granucci and they welcomed daughters Teddi Jo and Justice. In 1992, he married Elaine Irwin, having two songs – Hud and Speck — and in 2010, they separated. A year later, they finalized their divorce. John dated actress Meg Ryan from 2011 to 2015. In 2015, John was reportedly involved with former supermodel Christie Brinkley.