I think I was about 13 when I first heard about Daniel Johnston. Now that I think about it I’m pretty sure it had to do with the movie, Kids by Larry Clark. Daniel Johnston had a song called “Casper the Friendly Ghost” on the soundtrack that was also featured in the movie. I’m sure you remember it:
There is something about the sound of Daniel Johnston’s voice that instantly reminds me of my teenage years growing up in DC. House parties, driving around without a care in the world and the music of Daniel Johnston. Kurt Cobain was also a fan of Johnston’s music famously wearing one of his shirts at the ’92 MTV VMA Awards.
My eyes were really opened to the man behind the music when I saw his documentary, “The Devil and Daniel Johnston” a few years ago. Although a talented artist and songwriter, Daniel has struggled much of his adult life with various mental issues. Through all that this film is heartbreaking and makes you appreciate his music even more when you see the roots it’s born from. His album “Fun” is a great one to get started on if you aren’t familiar with his music. One of the most original artists of the past 30 years I’d say.
I hope you find a new artist to listen to on this Monday and if you know him already then break out the tapes and listen again.
photos via google//tumblr
