One of the things that keeps me so interested in music is that every time I think I've heard it all, I learn about an artist that I knew nothing about who just blows me away. Yesterday that was Texas psychedelic-garage-rock-cult-hero, Roky Erickson. Don't get me wrong; I have heard OF him but never knew his story nor listened to any of his music.
That all changed last night when I turned on the Sundance Channel who happened to be playing the amazing 2005 documentary on Roky called "You're Gonna Miss Me". I won't ruin the movie for those who may see it, but Roky's life may be one of the most facinating tales in music history. At times the film is very hard to watch, but in the end you are more than rewarded for doing so. His songs have influenced everyone from R.E.M. and Bruce Springsteen to the Butthole Surfers and ZZ Top with a million others in between.
After spending the day cranking some of his stuff, I am now planning to get my hands on every Roky Erickson disc I can. I know I will not be disappointed.
"You're Gonna Miss Me" Trailer
1 comment:
Be sure to listen to the 13th Floor Elevators records -- they're especially good. I agree with your thoughts on "You're Gonna Miss Me" -- his brother really saved his life.
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