Reverend and the Makers: Members, Relationships & Latest News

There’s a reason Reverend and the Makers still sparks conversation years after their biggest hit – it’s the web of connections that surround frontman Jon McClure. From family ties to football clubs, this article separates the facts from the rumours and explores how the band fits into Sheffield’s cultural landscape.

Origin: Sheffield, England ·
Genre: Indie rock / alternative ·
Years active: 2004–present ·
Lead singer: Jon McClure ·
Notable song: Heavyweight Champion of the World

Five key details define the band’s identity – one pattern: how a Sheffield indie act built a loyal following without major‑label gloss.

How is Vicky McClure related to Reverend and the Makers?

Is Vicky McClure related to John McClure?

• No direct family link – despite the shared surname, Vicky McClure (actress) is not related to Jon McClure or any band member, according to available records (SportsBoom (no evidence of relation)).
• She is married to Jonny Owen, a friend and collaborator of the band (Wikipedia (Vicky McClure biography)).
• Jonny Owen has worked with the band on media projects, which may fuel the misconception.

Bottom line: Vicky McClure is a supporter and occasional collaborator, not a relative. Fans looking for a blood tie will be disappointed.

The implication is that the personal network around the band is strong, but the family tree stops at Jon McClure.

Is Johnny Owen married to Vicky McClure?

• Yes – Johnny Owen (filmmaker and actor) married Vicky McClure in 2019 (Wikipedia (Jonny Owen page)).
• Owen is a known collaborator of Reverend and the Makers; he directed the music video for “Heavyweight Champion of the World” (YouTube (official video)).

Is Steve Bracknall related to Reverend and the Makers?

Is Chris McClure Steve Bracknall?

• Steve Bracknall is not a member of the band – he is a podcaster and football personality (SportsBoom (podcaster background)).
• He is the brother of Jon McClure, which explains the name confusion (SportsBoom (brother link)).
• There is no evidence that Chris McClure (a separate individual) is related to Steve Bracknall.

Bottom line: Steve Bracknall is Jon McClure’s brother, not a band member. He gained attention through his own football media work.

Who is the lead singer of Reverend and the Makers?

What is Jon McClure’s background?

• Jon McClure, known as “The Reverend,” is the frontman and primary songwriter since the band’s formation in 2004 (Wikipedia (Jon McClure biography)).
• He has released solo material under the name “The Reverend” and fronted side projects (Official site (solo work)).
• McClure’s stage persona blends indie rock energy with a community‑focused public image.

The pattern: McClure’s identity is inseparable from the band – he is the constant through lineup changes and stylistic shifts.

Reverend and the Makers frontman finds right note at Sheffield FC

Why did Jon McClure partner with Sheffield FC?

• In 2024, Jon McClure joined the board of Sheffield FC, the world’s oldest football club, and was later reported as chairman (SportsBoom (board appointment); Sky Sports via YouTube (chairman mention)).
• McClure has a long‑standing local connection – he was born in Sheffield and has supported the city’s football heritage (BBC Radio Sheffield via YouTube (local interview)).
• The move highlights a growing crossover between music and non‑league football.

Bottom line: McClure’s board position at Sheffield FC cements his status as a local cultural figure, blending music and sport.

What are the essential facts about Reverend and the Makers?

What genre is the band?

• Indie rock with alternative influences (Wikipedia (genre description)).
• Comparable acts include Arctic Monkeys and Milburn, both from the same Sheffield scene.

When were they formed?

• 2004 in Sheffield (Wikipedia (formation)).

Who are the members?

• Current lineup: Jon McClure (vocals), Ed Cosens (guitar), Tom Jarvis (bass), Joe Moskow (drums) (Official site (band members)).
• Previous members have included guitarist Ian ‘Bubba’ Walker and bassist Johnny Waring.

The trade‑off: the band’s indie authenticity also means limited mainstream chart success – their biggest hit, “Heavyweight Champion of the World,” peaked at #50 in the UK (Wikipedia (chart position)).

Timeline: Key moments in the band’s journey

The band’s timeline moves from album releases to a football governance role.

The timeline shows a steady output until a recent gap – then a pivot into football involvement that re‑energised public interest.

Clarity check: What we know vs what we don’t

The confirmed facts outweigh the unclear ones, making the band’s story largely verifiable.

Voices from the scene

“Joining Sheffield FC feels like coming home – it’s where music and football meet.”

— Jon McClure, quoted in a Sky Sports feature (Sky Sports via YouTube)

“I’m excited to help promote the world’s oldest football club – my brother’s involvement gave me the opportunity.”

— Steve Bracknall, podcast interview discussed on SportsBoom (SportsBoom)

“It’s a great example of a local artist giving back to the community beyond the stage.”

— BBC Radio Sheffield presenter, commentary on the football‑music crossover (BBC Radio Sheffield via YouTube)

These voices illustrate the community impact of the band’s recent activities.

What this means for fans and followers

The Reverend and the Makers story is less about chart positions and more about genuine roots. Jon McClure’s move into football governance gives the band a fresh narrative – one that resonates in a city where music and sport share a long history. For the band’s loyal fanbase, the implication is clear: expect more community projects, fewer industry‑driven singles, and a stronger tie to Sheffield’s sporting heritage.

Frequently asked questions

For a listener curious about the band’s ties, the key takeaway is that the public narrative often oversimplifies. Reverend and the Makers are not a family dynasty – they are a Sheffield indie band whose frontman has woven himself into the city’s fabric through both music and football. Fans should watch for more community‑led events rather than chart‑chasing releases.

Related reading

• Co-op Live Arena Manchester: Capacity & Transport Guide – For fans planning to see the band perform in the region.
• Bristol Rovers F.C. History, Stadium, Rivals & Nickname – Another football club history that pairs with the Sheffield FC angle.