Thursday, April 20, 2017

Big Star – Memphis Soul

Big Star were a ‘70s Memphis rock band who only became popular after they broke up and Gen X rockers began praising the band in interviews. (You can learn all about the Big Star drama in the 2012 documentary Big Star: Nothing Can Hurt Me). Fronted by the former teenage lead singer of the Box Tops, Alex Chilton, Big Star had some great power pop songs (Cheap Trick’s cover of Big Star's teen anthem “In the Street” kicks off That ‘70s Show) but I’ve always cared less about Big Star’s rocking side and more about their gentler, quieter side. 


For me, it’s on the vulnerable, lovelorn acoustic numbers where Alex Chilton’s unique voice and beautiful guitar playing really shine. I especially like when Chilton sings other people’s songs because we not only get to hear his soul in these loving covers but the man reminds us: he’s also a fan. Most of the founding members of Big Star have passed- Alex Chilton included- but the good thing about music is it lives on. So, enjoy some Big Star.  


01. Big Star – “In the Street” (1972)
02. Chris Bell feat. Alex Chilton – “You and Your Sister” (1978)
03. Big Star – “Blue Moon (Demo)” (1974)
04. Big Star – “I’m in Love with a Girl” (1974)
05. Big Star – “Motel Blues (Live)” (1974)
06. Big Star – “September Gurls” (1974)
07. Big star – “Femme Fatale (Demo)” (1974)
08. Big Star – “Back of a Car” (1974)
09. Big Star – “Thirteen” (1972) 
10. Big Star – “Nightime” (1975)


Listen to the playlist on Spotify...  



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