We’re thrilled to announce that Bloomsbury Publishing (Rowman & Littlefield) will publish the authorized biography of John Larkin, aka Scatman John, in late 2025 / early 2026. Written by Gina Waggott, this biography tells the remarkable story of a man who defied all odds to become a global pop sensation in the 1990s.
Scatman John’s journey was far more than a novelty hit. A jazz musician who battled addiction and nearly let his stutter destroy his life, John Larkin turned his greatest challenge into his signature sound. At 52, he became the world’s unlikeliest popstar, best known for the global megahits ‘Scatman (Ski-Ba-Bop-Ba-Dop-Bop)’ and ‘Scatman’s World’.
But Scatman John’s impact extended beyond music. At the height of his fame, John mentored a teenage kid who was struggling with suicidal thoughts. His words of encouragement and their ongoing letters and phone calls helped her through one of the darkest periods of her life. Before he died in 1999, John persuaded her to keep going. She did, and now, nearly three decades later, she’s written his biography.
“That kid was me,” Gina says. “I can’t wait to share John’s story with the world and honour the man who taught me, and so many others, that our greatest struggles can become our greatest strengths.”
What most people know about Scatman John is only the tip of the iceberg. Gina estimates that over half the book contains details never made public. “If you found John’s journey inspiring before,” she says, “prepare to have your mind blown.”
Don’t forget to sign up for the latest Scatman John updates here for more information on when the book will be released, including other Scatman news. You can read a short biography of John on this site here, too.