There are battles along the way with victories for many, but for some, that war is waged against an outcome. After serving his country in the Falklands War and doing tours in Northern Ireland during the troubles, for army veteran John Crompton it is how he has retained that courage and conviction during his illness that defines him.
John decided to put into words how the cancer was affecting him emotionally and draining him of his spirit. The lyrics were sent to Hull-born singer-songwriter Andy Stocks who added the melody, instruments and vocals. The artist now based in California says, “Playing it felt like magic. I instantly connected with the lyrics”.
John’s daughter Samantha Perotti instantly fell in love with the track, sent it to producer Lorenzo and signed it to her label Fuchsia Aura Music. What the trio have put in play is a heart-rending and emotional song that will target the soul of anyone who understands the cancer struggle. Andy’s vocals drip with the very essence of finding the will to carry on.
Recognising the key role of early detection and mental health support, John is donating a proportion of the song’s earnings to the charities Macmillan Cancer Support, Sue Ryder, Marie Curie, and the Royal British Legion. He still gives to society, thinking of others and how to make a difference.
In this regard, he is selfless, a champion of those who have lost hope and a true hero. The word is bandied around in the media these days but there are few people to which it legitimately applies. John Crompton is one of those rare few and, the legacy of I Can But I Can’t ensures that he will always be remembered. The song will be released on 31/1/2025.
