Singing in bands was something John Mellencamp had done since his early teens, but becoming a successful painter was his ambition - until he was offered a recording contract while scouting for art opportunities in New York City.  During his appearance on NBC's Late Night with Seth Meyers Wednesday (426), John talked about that, his ongoing interest in painting - and confirmed that another musician convinced him that he should start selling his paintings.

John also performed one of the new songs with Carlene Carter fromt their new album Sad Clowns & Hillbillies and did a solo, acoutsic version of Jack and Diane.