John Mellencamp to perform at Purdue on March 31

Mellencamp will take the stage at the Elliott Hall of Music at 8 p.m. March 31. Presented by Purdue's Student Concert Committee and Jam Productions, the concert is part of Mellencamp's new "Words and Music Tour." It will be his third visit to Purdue.

A native of Seymour, Ind., Mellencamp's tour is in support of his latest release, "Words and Music: John Mellencamp's Greatest Hits," a collection of 35 hits and two new songs. The new songs, "Walking Tall" and "Thank You," were both produced by Mellencamp and another Hoosier native, Kenneth "Babyface" Edmonds. This is the first time that all 22 of Mellencamp's Top 40 hits, including his 10 Top 10 hits, will be available on one collection.

A nominee for the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, Mellencamp's long recording career began in 1976 with his first release under the name of John Cougar. His breakthrough album, "American Fool," in 1982 rocketed him to No. 1 on the charts. He then added Mellencamp to his stage name.

Mellencamp is an outspoken advocate for American farmers, and he founded the Farm Aid concert with Willie Nelson and Neil Young. He also became known for his anti-corporate stance, refusing to accept tour sponsorship offers from beer or tobacco companies.

Ticket prices are $49.50 and $39.50, which include all applicable fees.

Tickets for Purdue students, staff and faculty go on sale beginning at 10 a.m. Feb. 17 at campus box offices. Public ticket sales begin at 10 a.m. Feb. 18 at any Ticketmaster outlet.

Writer: Laura Clavio, Purdue Convocations assistant director and Student Concert Committee adviser, (765) 496-2913, lzclavio@purdue.edu

Purdue News Service: (765) 494-2096; purduenews@purdue.edu

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