Next in our Q & A miniseries we spoke to the remarkable John Smith ahead of his Sidmouth debut at the festival in August.

You’ve toured extensively in Britain, Europe and America, both solo and with artists such as Iron and Wine, James Yorkston, John Martyn, Gil Scott-Heron and Lisa Hannigan. What have been some of your personal highlights from the last few years?

I toured the US with Patty Griffin, that was a good time. L.A. Airport closed down on the day I landed, so I had to find a car and drive to Phoenix for the first show. I stopped on the side of the road to use nature’s facilities and heard a loud rattle, just a few feet away. I must have covered the 100 yards back to the car in about three seconds.

Any top tips for keeping sane on the road?

I quit boozing on the road in 2021. That made everything easier. I take a load of movies and books so that I can kill time, if I find myself in the kind of dressing room that makes you want to quit. There are still some dressing rooms out there that make you question every decision you’ve ever made. Headphones and a book go a long way towards keeping me sane.

You spent your childhood in Devon, is there something special about returning to the county after long stretches away?

I left in 2000 for Liverpool, but I’ve made my way back South. I’m living in Somerset these days. I get a kick out of taking my family to Devon for weekends, back to Brixham and Man Sands, up to Dartmoor, back down to Prawle. It’s heaven.

Will this be your first time performing at Sidmouth? What have you heard about the festival?

It will indeed. Most of my friends in folk music have played there and they all say it’s one of the best. I’m playing the same day as Siobhan Miller, which makes me very happy.

You’re playing an afternoon concert at The Ham – what can people expect from your set?

Afternoon shows are a little more relaxed. I’ll be going slow and steady, trying out some new ideas but throwing in some requests too.

Is there anyone else on the Sidmouth line-up you’d recommend checking out?

Jake & Tim (The East Pointers) and I got excited when we thought we were all playing the Friday – until we realized there are two Fridays! They’re my favourite festival band. They’re on the first Friday.

What’s next for you after summer festivals?

I’m putting out a record and going on tour in the UK & Europe until Christmas, then it’s back to the US & Canada next year, maybe down to Japan and Australia.

You can see John live in concert on Friday 8th August, 3.15pm at The Ham. Tickets available here: https://www.tickettailor.com/events/sidmouthfolkweekproductionsltd/1674575