John Helliwell (born John Anthony Helliwell, 15 February 1945, in Todmorden, Yorkshire, England) is a British musician and the saxophonist, and occasional keyboardist for the rock band, Supertramp.

Career

As a child, he sang in a church choir and took up piano (which would come in handy once he joined Supertramp, as he would play additional keyboards in live performance from 1974 to 1987; and sang additional background vocals). Then he took up the clarinet at the age of 13, and then the saxophone at 15.

Helliwell played sax in various bands, including the 1960s band, The Alan Bown Set (as John Anthony), before joining Supertramp unofficially in 1973. He has remained with Supertramp ever since as his saxophone solos became a Supertramp trademark. He uses Selmer soprano, alto, tenor and baritone saxophones. He also played various additional keyboards and synthesizers in concerts during the 1974-87 period, sang backing vocals, and was the Master of Ceremonies at each Supertramp concert introducing the songs and communicating with the audience.

When not performing with Supertramp, he is oftimes with his own band, John Helliwell's Crème Anglaise. He also played with various artists such as Thin Lizzy and Pink Floyd (he played saxophone on "Terminal Frost").

He has been married to his wife Christine since 1975, and has two sons, Charles and William.

External link

Helliwell's personal website is www.johnhelliwell.com