John Joseph McGowan (born October 3, 1962) is a musician, author and Ironman triathlete from New York City, most famous for his work as the lead singer of the Cro-Mags. McGowan was raised in foster care, and grew up on the streets of New York City. In the late 70s he enlisted in the United States Navy after drug charges could’ve landed him in Federal Prison. While in the Navy he was stationed in Virginia Beach, VA and discovered the punk scene down there.
He joined the Cro-Mags in 1981 for six months until the band broke up, and again when they reformed in 1984. He sang and wrote lyrics for their demo, first, third, and fourth albums. He also sings lead on the "Before the Quarrel CD", essentially a reissue of the demo. Before, during, and after his time in the Cro-Mags, McGowan served as a roadie for Bad Brains, and he sang background vocals on Antidote's "Thou Shalt Not Kill" EP. He returned to the Cro-Mags briefly in the early to mid-1990s. He also worked as a bicycle messenger in New York City from 1981 to 1991, and continues to cycle around the city today, often recording it for his social media. McGowan has also sung for the bands Both Worlds and Bloodclot.
His autobiography, "The Evolution of a Cro-Magnon", details his rough upbringing in an abusive foster home, the problematic history of the Cro-Mags, and his extensive involvement with the Hare Krishnas. He is also the author of two other books: one on veganism and fitness training titled "Meat Is for Pussies", and the other titled "The P.M.A. Effect", which is about living life with a "positive mental attitude". Interviews with McGowan were featured in the 1999 documentary "N.Y.H.C." as well as the 2006 documentary "American Hardcore". Since 2010, McGowan started competing in Ironman competitions. He lives a straight edge lifestyle, but does not identify with its subculture.
