Like the beat poets made hip the exploration of the darker inner recesses of the soul through references to sex, drugs, music, emotions and environment in the 50s and 60s, John Cooper Clarke’s magical wordsmithery took the 70s and 80s by storm, chewing up society’s niceties and ills then spitting them out all abrasive edged and star shaped. Known as the Bard of Salford and beloved by Manchester musicians throughout that seminal time, Cooper Clarke has continued his love-affair with the alternative, artistic industries and his wicked humour, quick-fire satirical influence resonate loudly through the likes of Plan B and The Arctic Monkeys work. Currently on tour with Squeeze supporting as a very special guest, Dr John Cooper Clarke remains one of the most iconic voices and greatest performers of our time.

Fri 17 Jun, Birmingham Town Hall, Victoria Square, Birmingham, B3 3DQ. Tel: 0121 780 3333, 8pm, £28 – £33 www.thsh.co.uk