Roky Erickson
Appeared in these episodes:
Roky Erickson is a near-mythical figure in Texas music history, but his well-publicized personal turmoil tends to unfairly overshadow his contribution to rock & roll. His pioneering 1960s band the 13th Floor Elevators was the first act to use the term “psychedelic” in relation to music with its 1966 album The Psychedelic Sounds of the 13th Floor Elevators, featuring “Fire Engine” and the hit single “You’re Gonna Miss Me.” His work was influential enough on punk rockers and garage revivalists that he was able to resurrect his career in the 70s and 80s with horror-themed rock (“Don’t Shake Me Lucifer,” “Bloody Hammer”) and jangly pop (“Starry Eyes,” “We Are Never Talking”). While he faded from view in the 90s, his music was kept alive by the major-label tribute album Where the Pyramid Meets the Eye, featuring famous fans like R.E.M. and ZZ Top. Having re-entered the public eye thanks to the acclaimed documentary You’re Gonna Miss Me: A Film About Roky Erickson, the reinvigorated singer/songwriter at long last makes his studio 6A debut.
