JOHN Mayall s UK tour will see him stop off at the Cambridge Corn Exchange next month where he will be performing songs from an incredible 55 albums, showcasing his 40-year-long career with guitarist Stan Webb and Chicken Shack. He said: I love the excit

JOHN Mayall's UK tour will see him stop off at the Cambridge Corn Exchange next month where he will be performing songs from an incredible 55 albums, showcasing his 40-year-long career with guitarist Stan Webb and Chicken Shack.

He said: "I love the excitement and honesty of blues music.

"The sound is quite unique, and to communicate to people through my music live on stage is an exciting experience."

John, who has lived in Los Angeles since 1969, said his inspiration for music was never ending.

"I get it from real life stories and emotions," he said.

Born in Macclesfield, Cheshire, on November 29, 1933, John was the son of a semi-professional guitar player.

He said: "My father was a fan of jazz music so it was a natural progression for me to do what I'm doing now."

At the age of 14, art student John had taught himself the basics of guitar and later taught himself how to read and write music.

He said: "As my career was directed towards graphic design, I never really thought about becoming a professional musician.

"During the 50s, England was dominated by the traditional jazz bands of the day, and as there was no indication that the blues would ever have an audience, I played only for my own satisfaction."

Since then, John has worked with many admired musicians, including Mick Fleetwood, Peter Green, and John McVie.

"I've been very lucky because I've always been able to find people to work with who are inspiring musicians," he said.

In 1965 John hired Eric Clapton, which led to the release of the landmark Bluesbreakers album that broke into the UK charts and put John on the map.

He said: "Clapton was the only person I heard who had an understanding of music and a maturity that other people didn't seem to have."

John will also be joining forces with guitarist Stan Webb at the concert on Monday November 13.

For tickets priced at £23.50 call the box office on 01223 357851.