Singer Joe Longthorne embarks on mammoth tour after beating cancer (From News Shopper)

Singer Joe Longthorne embarks on mammoth tour after beating cancer

9:02am Monday 9th July 2012 in Music News By Nikki Jarvis

An internationally renowned singer who has beaten cancer is embarking on one of his biggest tours yet.

Animal-loving Joe Longthorne is set to perform at The Orchard Theatre in Dartford on July 16.

The remarkable entertainer – who recently recovered from leukaemia and a harrowing bone marrow transplant – first shot to fame in 1981 as a singer and impressionist on TV show Search for a Star.

His intimate upcoming show includes songs which span the entire range of his 40 year career.

He told News Shopper: “My show includes songs I’ve written myself on the piano.

“I like a good ballad.

“I’m not a screamer but I enjoy singing – I’m old enough now to appreciate all the words to the songs.

“Singing My Way when I was 12 wasn’t the same.”

Joe, whose hits feature covers of Big Spender, Born Free, Lady is a Tramp and Sweet Caroline, says battling leukaemia has made him even more thankful for his fans.

He added: “I’m not just saying it, it’s really changed me.

“I listen to people more now – it was a big one to get over.

“I want to help others – that’s what it’s all about for me now.”

Joe calls himself old fashioned, saying he does not like the internet at all.

“I won’t go on Faceylicks or get involved with the internet.

“I’ve heard you can get messages on the internet you’d rather not see.

“I don’t like to get myself too excited – I’m old fashioned.”

By the end of this year Joe will have played 60 dates in the UK and clocked up more than 150 worldwide shows in 2012.

But he always looks forward to going home.

He added: “My partner James and I have eight hens, one cock and a sheep – we’re like one big family.

“We’ve got a secret garden too.

“I look forward to coming back and there they all are.

“There was a time when I went a bit giddy and spent money as it came along.

“I ended up on my arse.”

But Joe, known as ‘the singer’s singer’ has truly bounced back since those days and in 2007 he won a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Variety Club of Great Britain.

He has also worked tirelessly for a range of charities and in 2010 the Variety Club gave him a Silver Heart in recognition of this work.

His favourite song is Ave Maria in Latin.

“I could play that backwards and cry.” Joe said.

“I’m serious behind the piano.

“But I also do lots of impressions of everyone from Frank Sinatra to David Bowie.”

In 2011 Joe released The Impossible Dream, his first album in 10 years. Tickets to the show are available from £20.50.

For bookings visit orchardtheatre.co.uk