Daniel Johnston vs. the world
Daniel Johnston is arguably one of the last writers in music to really achieve that cult like status that embodies legends later on down the road. The thing is, it
didn’t take an overdose of drugs or suicide to give him this acclaim. Diagnosed with bi-polar disorder, Johnston’s knack for music derives from a place no other writer can imagine. However, he connects with people. His music is not only diverse, usually steeped in an other wordly darkness, but some of the most honest material to come to surface. His influence is paramount, inspiring dozens of artists today to cover his music, such as Tom Waits, Pearl Jam, and Sonic Youth. His live act has been described as a spiritual reawakening, bringing hundreds of followers that drive hundreds of miles to see him.
Fortunately for you, Johnston is taking the act out on the road, even overseas.
While he might seem new to you, Johnston has been quite the subject of interest in the last few years. In 2006, a documentary, The Devil and Daniel Johnston, offered introspect into the troubled musician’s life. In fact, there’s a great story within and it’s rather heartbreaking, actually. It kind of puts a whole new perspective on what music represents.
Anywho, the history lesson’s over, folks. Go get ya tickets!
Daniel Johnston - 2008 Tour Dates
Jun 20 - Warsaw, Brooklyn, NY
Jun 21 - art event in NYC (details TBA)
Jun 22 - Popped Festival Philadelphia, PA
Jun 24 - The Orange Peel, Asheville, NC
Jun 25 - Cannery Ballroom, Nashville, TN
Jun 26 - Variety Playhouse, Atlanta, GA
Jul 18 - Sticky Fingers Stockholm, Sweden
Jul 19 - Berns Gothenburg, Sweden
Jul 20 - Rockefellar Oslo, Norway
Jul 23 - The Old Fruit Market Glasgow, UK
Jul 24 - New Century House Manchester, UK
Jul 25 - Indig02 London, UK
Jul 27 - Whelans Dublin, Ireland
Jul 28 - Whelans Dublin, Ireland
Check Out:
Daniel Johnston - “I Had Lost My Mind”
Great movie. Very intriguing character. The Flaming Lips have also covered his songs with “steve” from Blue’s Clues and Sparkelhorse. Very talented person needless to say.
I agree, Johnny. Are you gonna try and catch him on tour?
Dunno. I have a pretty busy schedule planned for the summer. I live in Chicago so it would be a haul to see him anywhere this summer. Hoping to catch the Flaming Lips tomorrow actually though at Summercamp.