He was born with spina bifida, which in 1951 was a death sentence. The man has done and seen it all and lived to tell the tale. John Mellencamp was not expected to last. From his very robust musical career to his acting and film credits, to his family and personal life. Mellencamp (born October 7, 1951), previously known as Johnny Cougar, John Cougar, and John Cougar Mellencamp, is an American singer-songwriter. Mellencamp rose to fame in the 1980s while 'honing an almost startlingly plainspoken. He is known for his catchy brand of heartland rock, which emphasizes traditional instrumentation. Throughout John Mellencamps life, he has had many successes. Mellencamp 2 (born October 7, 1951), previously known as Johnny Cougar, John Cougar, and John Cougar Mellencamp, is an American singer-songwriter. John being a very unapologetic liberal, supported both Barack Obama and Hillary Clinton during the their primaries, even going as far as to perform for Barack Obama at the Obama inaugural celebration at the Lincoln Memorial. John was very critical of Ronald Reagan during the 1980's. He also has had no problems what so ever criticizing presidents or other politicians when they do things he disagrees with. Earlier this summer, a source told People that John Mellencamp and Barrett had been dating for several months. The couple was introduced by Mellencamp’s daughter, Teddie Mellencamp Arroyave. He was one of the first famous celebrities to come out against the Iraq war. Singer-songwriter John Mellencamp has reportedly parted ways with his current girlfriend, Natasha Barrett, after only several months of dating. John has also been very vocal on his political views. The two had been friends for years, and Billy Joel even asked John to induct him when he was inducted back in 1999, but unfortunately John had made prior plans and was unable to. The induction ceremony took place in New York City on March 10, 2008, and Mellencamp was inducted by his good friend Billy Joel. John was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame's Class of 2008. He has also been nominated for 12 other Grammys in his career. His most notable award is his Grammy win for Best Male Rock Performer for "Hurts So Good" in 1983. He has put out numerous albums and solo tracks that have all reached critical acclaim. John Mellencamp has had a very successful career in his life.