
Reverend and the Makers – Biography Songs Tour and Net Worth
Reverend and the Makers are an English indie rock band formed in Sheffield, South Yorkshire, known for politically charged lyrics, anthemic choruses, and high-energy live performances. Fronted by Jon McClure, the band rose to prominence in the late 2000s and remains active with new music and tours in 2025.
The band’s story begins in Sheffield, a city with a deep musical heritage that also produced Arctic Monkeys, Pulp, and The Human League. Jon McClure, born in 1981, developed his stage persona as “The Reverend” through outspoken political views and theatrical delivery. Before forming Reverend and the Makers, he played in local bands including The Yards and briefly performed as a live guitarist for Razorlight.
McClure assembled the group in the early 2000s, and after a chance meeting with Wall of Sound founder Mark Jones in 2006, the band secured a record deal. Their debut album followed in 2007, and they have since released six studio albums, toured with Oasis, and maintained a loyal following through constant evolution and social engagement.
Who Are Reverend and the Makers?
Reverend and the Makers
Sheffield, South Yorkshire, England
Indie rock, alternative rock, politically charged rock
Jon McClure (The Reverend)
Reverend and the Makers are known for their politically infused lyrics and energetic live performances. Their debut album ‘The State of Things’ (2007) reached No. 5 in the UK charts. ‘Heavyweight Champion of the World’ remains their signature hit, blending indie rock with social commentary. After a hiatus, the band returned with ‘Is This How Happiness Feels?’ in 2025, signaling a creative resurgence. The band has seen several line-up changes, with Jon McClure as the constant core member.
| Key Fact | Details |
|---|---|
| Formed | 2006 |
| Labels | Wall of Sound, Cooking Vinyl |
| Albums | 6 studio albums (including ‘The State of Things’, ‘A French Kiss in the Chaos’, ‘Is This How Happiness Feels?’) |
| Key Members | Jon McClure (vocals), Ed Cosens (guitar), Joe Moskow (bass), Lee Wortley (drums), Laura McClure (keyboard) |
| Famous Song | ‘Heavyweight Champion of the World’ |
| Latest Release | 2025: ‘Is This How Happiness Feels?’ |
What Are the Songs and Albums by Reverend and the Makers?
The band has released six studio albums, each reflecting a different phase of their evolution. Their music blends indie rock with post-punk energy and, later, elements of soul and funk, while maintaining Jon McClure’s characteristic lyrical focus on politics, class, and personal reflection.
What Is ‘Heavyweight Champion of the World’ by Reverend and the Makers?
“Heavyweight Champion of the World” is the band’s most famous track, released as the lead single from their debut album ‘The State of Things’ in 2007. It reached the UK Top 10 and propelled the band into the national spotlight. The song is an anthemic indie rock track with driving guitars and a defiant chorus, often interpreted as a commentary on working-class struggle and resilience. Its music video and live performances have cemented it as a staple of the band’s identity.
What Is the Latest Album by Reverend and the Makers?
The most recent studio album is ‘Is This How Happiness Feels?’, released in 2025. The record has been described as a return to form, blending raw lyricism with the band’s established indie rock sound. It follows a period of activity that included the 2024 charity single “Late Night Phone Call” and other standalone releases.
Vinyl editions of Reverend and the Makers albums have been released over the years, often in limited runs. Fans can find current pressings, including the new album ‘Is This How Happiness Feels?’, through the band’s official website and major music retailers. Older albums like ‘The State of Things’ and ‘A French Kiss in the Chaos’ are also available on vinyl through online marketplaces and record stores.
What Other Albums Have They Released?
The complete studio album discography includes ‘The State of Things’ (2007), ‘A French Kiss in the Chaos’ (2009), ‘@Reverend Makers’ (2012), ‘ThirtyTwo’ (2014), ‘The Death of a King’ (2017), and ‘Heatwave in the Cold North’ (2021). Each album explores different sonic territory, from the raw energy of their debut to the more polished and reflective tones of later records.
Who Are the Members of Reverend and the Makers and What Is Their Net Worth?
The band has experienced several line-up changes since forming in the early 2000s. Jon McClure remains the sole constant member and the primary creative force as lead vocalist and principal songwriter.
Who Are the Current Members?
Key members often associated with the band’s core include Jon McClure (vocals), Ed Cosens (guitar), Joe Moskow (bass), Lee Wortley (drums), and Laura McClure (keyboard). The exact line-up for live performances and recordings can fluctuate, and the official composition as listed by sources like Wikipedia may not always reflect all collaborators on a given tour or album.
Early members included Ed Cosens on bass, Dave Sanderson and Tom Jarvis on guitars, Joe Moskow on keyboards, Richy Westley on drums, and Laura Manuel on vocals. Over time, several musicians have departed and been replaced, maintaining the band’s sound through different eras.
What Is Reverend and the Makers’ Net Worth?
Net worth figures for the band are not publicly verified. Estimates found online vary considerably and should be treated as speculative. The band’s income is derived from album sales, touring, merchandise, and songwriting royalties, but no official or reliable financial disclosure exists.
What Are the Upcoming Tour Dates and Events for Reverend and the Makers?
Reverend and the Makers continue to tour actively in the UK and Europe. As of 2025, the band is playing an estimated 40 to 50 shows per year, mixing headline concerts with festival appearances.
Are Reverend and the Makers Touring in 2026?
Specific tour dates for 2026 have not been widely announced as of early 2025, but the band’s recent output and continued live presence suggest further performances are likely. Fans should monitor the official website and ticketing platforms such as Ticketmaster UK, Live Nation, AXS, and See Tickets for updated schedules.
What Upcoming Events Are Confirmed?
The band’s 2025 touring activity includes festival and outdoor summer events, particularly in Sheffield and the wider Yorkshire region, as well as intimate club and theatre shows. A pop-up event was also held in May 2025 at Meadowhall. Mental health and charity-aligned gigs, tied to organizations like Samaritans, remain a recurring part of their calendar.
Tour dates and events are subject to change. Always verify with the official band website or authorized ticketing partners to avoid incorrect or outdated information.
What Is the Timeline of Reverend and the Makers’ Career?
- : Band formed in Sheffield; Jon McClure and Ed Cosens join forces. McClure meets Wall of Sound founder Mark Jones and secures a record deal.
- : Debut album ‘The State of Things’ released; single ‘Heavyweight Champion of the World’ becomes a UK Top 10 hit.
- : Second album ‘A French Kiss in the Chaos’ released; the band supports Oasis on their final tour, including Wembley Stadium dates.
- : Third album ‘@Reverend Makers’ released, titled after the band’s Twitter handle at the time.
- : Fourth album ‘ThirtyTwo’ released, marking a more mature and reflective phase.
- : Fifth album ‘The Death of a King’ released, exploring themes of legacy and political turmoil.
- : Sixth studio album ‘Is This How Happiness Feels?’ released; UK tour announced.
What Is Certain and What Remains Unclear About the Band?
| Established Information | Information That Remains Unclear |
|---|---|
| Band formed in Sheffield in 2006 | Net worth figures are not publicly verified – estimates vary and should be treated as speculative |
| Jon McClure is the lead vocalist and central figure | Exact member line-up has fluctuated over the years; current official line-up may not reflect all live collaborators |
| ‘Heavyweight Champion of the World’ is a key song | Full details of future tour dates beyond 2025 are not yet confirmed |
| Current album ‘Is This How Happiness Feels?’ was released in 2025 | The exact formation year is cited differently across sources (2002–2005) |
What Is the Context of Reverend and the Makers’ Music?
Reverend and the Makers emerged from the same Sheffield scene that produced Arctic Monkeys, but charted a more politically outspoken path. Their sound blends indie rock, dance-punk, and folk influences, often addressing class, politics, and social justice. The band’s ability to adapt – from late-2000s success to a 2025 comeback – demonstrates their enduring relevance. Recently, ‘Is This How Happiness Feels?’ has been praised for its raw lyricism and return to form.
What Sources and Quotations Exist About Reverend and the Makers?
Several authoritative sources provide comprehensive information about the band. Wikipedia offers a detailed encyclopedic biography and discography. The official website serves as the primary channel for news, album pre-orders, and tour dates. Spotify hosts the band’s complete streaming discography, and the YouTube channel features music videos, live performances, and interviews.
What’s Next for Reverend and the Makers?
With the release of ‘Is This How Happiness Feels?’ in 2025, the band is expected to embark on a UK and potentially international tour. Fans can expect new music, vinyl releases, and pop-up events. Stay tuned to their official site for ticketing and pre-order details.
Frequently Asked Questions
How did Reverend and the Makers get their name?
The name comes from Jon McClure’s nickname ‘The Reverend’ – he was known for his preaching-style delivery on stage.
What are similar bands to Reverend and the Makers?
Fans often compare them to Arctic Monkeys, The Libertines, and Hard-Fi.
Where can I watch Reverend and the Makers live?
Check the tour section on their official website or ticketing platforms like Ticketmaster.
Does the band have a political affiliation?
Jon McClure has been vocal about left-wing politics, but the band does not officially endorse any party.
What is the meaning behind ‘Heavyweight Champion of the World’?
The song is widely interpreted as a commentary on working-class struggle and resilience, delivered through an anthemic indie rock structure.
Are there any new albums planned after 2025?
No official announcements have been made regarding a follow-up to ‘Is This How Happiness Feels?’.
Where is the band from?
They are from Sheffield, South Yorkshire, England.
What label released their debut album?
Wall of Sound released ‘The State of Things’ in 2007.
How many studio albums have they released?
Six studio albums: ‘The State of Things’, ‘A French Kiss in the Chaos’, ‘@Reverend Makers’, ‘ThirtyTwo’, ‘The Death of a King’, ‘Heatwave in the Cold North’, and ‘Is This How Happiness Feels?’.
What charity did the 2024 Christmas single support?
The single ‘Late Night Phone Call’ raised awareness and funds for Samaritans, a mental health and suicide-prevention charity.