Reverend & The Makers’ John McClure has opened up about his diagnosis of ADHD and his earlier feelings of “jealousy” toward his friend Alex Turner.
New festive single and charity support
- READ MORE: Reverend & The Makers on their Christmas charity single: ‘The Samaritans helped me so I should help them’
The frontman of the Sheffield rock band spoke with NME regarding the band’s latest holiday single ‘Late Night Phone Call’. He shared his experiences using the Samaritans charity, stating, ‘The Samaritans save lives 365 days a year, and their support becomes even more crucial during the Christmas season.’
“They did something for me, and I wanted to give back to them,” referring to how the proceeds from the single will aid Samaritans, whose services are particularly vital during the festive period.
Understanding ADHD
McClure also talked about his recent ADHD diagnosis, explaining that Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder is a neurodevelopmental condition that can impact concentration, organization, and self-regulation. It is marked by ongoing patterns of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity that disrupt daily functioning.
“I understand myself better,” McClure noted about his diagnosis. “When I was 24, I thought I had it all figured out. Looking back, I realize that my behavior was less than ideal for much of my career.
He elaborated on his struggles, mentioning his mental health challenges, the impact of substances, and how his feelings of envy towards his best friend (Alex Turner) being in a top band created a negative mix.
“Now, I recognize that ADHD is a unique strength that I didn’t know how to utilize,” he continued. “I have four unfinished novels with great ideas, but I still struggle to complete them. I created a storyboard for the ‘Late Night Phone Call’ video, and I’m the CEO of Day Fever. In light of everything that’s happened, I think it’s wise to bring someone on board to help finish a project.
“At 42, I feel like I was stuck in a juvenile mindset. Before my ADHD diagnosis, I took longer to mature and embrace responsibility. Now, I feel empowered to accomplish anything.”
McClure and Turner first met in 2001 while riding a bus. At that time, McClure invited Turner to join his band, and they later collaborated with Judan Suki and Arctic Monkeys drummer Matt Helders.
Over the years, they became roommates and co-wrote several songs, including “He Said He Loved Me” by Reverend & The Makers and “The Machine” and “Old Yellow Bricks” by Arctic Monkeys.
In other news, Reverend & The Makers are scheduled to perform at the 2025 Victorious Festival.
For help and advice on mental health issues:
- “Am I depressed?” – Help and guidance on mental health issues and subsequent steps
- MITC – Music Industry Therapists Collective.
- TONIC Rider – personalized training and support for music industry professionals
- Help Musicians UK – 24/7 mental health support and advice for musicians.
- Music support organization – assistance for musicians facing challenges with alcoholism, addiction, or mental health issues.
- YOUNG MINDS – A voice for the health and wellbeing of young people
- CALM – Campaign Against Living Miserably
- Samaritans – Confidential support available 24/7
https://www.nme.com/news/music/reverend-the-makers-jon-mcclure-on-adhd-diagnosis-and-past-jealousy-of-best-mate-alex-turner-being-in-the-biggest-band-in-the-world-3824583?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=reverend-the-makers-jon-mcclure-on-adhd-diagnosis-and-past-jealousy-of-best-mate-alex-turner-being-in-the-biggest-band-in-the-world
