Speeding Motorcycle Yo La Tengo Daniel Johnston
If you're a fan of alternative music, you may be familiar with the song "Speeding Motorcycle" by Yo La Tengo. However, did you know that the song was actually written by musician and artist Daniel Johnston? In this article, we'll explore the origins of the song, its various iterations, and what makes it such a beloved track in the indie music scene.
Who is Daniel Johnston?
Daniel Johnston was a singer-songwriter and visual artist known for his lo-fi recordings and unique artistic style. Born in Sacramento, California in 1961, Johnston grew up in West Virginia and later moved to Texas, where he began recording music in the late 1970s. His music was often characterized by its raw, emotional lyrics and simple melodies, and has been cited as an influence by a number of musicians in the alternative and indie rock scenes.
Johnston struggled with mental illness throughout his life, and his art and music often reflected his experiences with depression, anxiety, and other mental health issues. Despite these challenges, he continued to create and perform music until his death in 2019.
The Origins of "Speeding Motorcycle"
"Speeding Motorcycle" was originally written and recorded by Johnston in the early 1980s. The song was included on his 1985 cassette album "Hi, How Are You," which later gained a cult following among indie music fans. The original version of "Speeding Motorcycle" featured Johnston's signature lo-fi production style, with simple guitar and keyboard accompaniment and lyrics that alternated between cheerful and melancholy.
The song gained wider exposure in 1990, when Yo La Tengo recorded a cover version for a tribute album to Johnston called "The Late Great Daniel Johnston: Discovered Covered." Yo La Tengo's version of the song featured a more polished production style and added a driving beat and layers of guitar and keyboard instrumentation. The band's take on "Speeding Motorcycle" became a fan favorite and remains one of their most popular songs.
Other Versions of "Speeding Motorcycle"
Since Yo La Tengo's cover version of "Speeding Motorcycle" was released, the song has been covered by a number of other artists in a variety of styles. Notable versions include:
- A country-tinged rendition by Mary Lou Lord, which was featured on the soundtrack to the 1995 film "I Shot Andy Warhol."
- A punk-infused cover by the band The Gories, which appeared on their 1994 album "I Know You Fine, But How You Doin'."
- A stripped-down acoustic version by the band The Magnetic Fields, which was included on their 2004 album "i."
Each of these versions puts a unique spin on the song, highlighting different aspects of its lyrics and melody.
Why is "Speeding Motorcycle" So Beloved?
So what is it about "Speeding Motorcycle" that has made it such a beloved track among indie music fans? There are a few factors at play:
- The song's simple yet catchy melody, which is easy to sing along to and has a timeless quality that makes it feel like a classic from the moment you hear it.
- The lyrics, which are simultaneously joyful and melancholy, reflecting Johnston's unique perspective on life and the world around him.
- The song's association with Yo La Tengo, who are themselves beloved figures in the indie music world and have helped to popularize the song among a wider audience.
Ultimately, "Speeding Motorcycle" is a testament to the power of music to connect with people on a deep and emotional level. Whether you're a die-hard Daniel Johnston fan or just discovering the song for the first time, it's hard not to be moved by the beauty and simplicity of this indie classic.
