On the latest podcast episode of WTF with Marc Maron, Marc discusses, among other things the blending of modern art and rock music with The Talking Heads/The Modern Lovers guitarist and songwriter Jerry Harrison, touching on how both bands helped pioneer a new culture in the New York City scene that allowed groups like The Velvet Underground, Blondie, and The Ramones to thrive.
LISTEN NOW: WTF with Marc Maron: Jerry Harrison
Fans know and love the Talking Heads and The Modern Lovers as two of the most influential bands of the '70s -- with many arguing the two are the best bands... ever. Songwriter, keyboardist, and guitarist Jerry Harrison was in both groups, beginning with The Modern Lovers in the early '70s before joining the Talking Heads in 1977 and remaining with them until their indefinite hiatus was announced in 1991. Harrison, since the indefinite break, has produced albums for the likes of the Violent Femmes, Live, Crash Test Dummies, The Verve Pipe, Rusted Root, Black 47, Of A Revolution (OAR), No Doubt, Kenny Wayne Shepherd, and many others.
During their chat, Marc also got into some of the behind-the-scenes tension experienced within the Talking Heads, which led to their eventual hiatus as well as Jerry’s rekindled friendship with Modern Lovers frontman Jonathan Richman.
After being invited to try out for the Talking Heads in the late-70s, who were looking for a keyboard player at the time, Jerry showed up with his guitar and jammed with the band. "I felt, this is different than anything else," says Harrison. "Artistically this is a great success; no idea what its commercial success will be but I want to be a part of this." Acknowledging the unique talents of each member, he also notes the minimal approach they took to songwriting, helping to usher in in one form or another the budding Punk scene. However, just like with Modern Lovers, the artistry of the main songwriters, Talking Heads' David Byrne, and Richman respectively, moving into different realms musically than what fans had come to expect as well as a cultural shift in music in general that was leading to a much bigger, fuller sound.
Listen to the full interview to get a look behind the curtain with Marc and Jerry.
Fans will also be happy to know that Harrison and Talking Heads/King Crimson guitarist Adrian Belew will reunite for a special celebration of the Talking Heads‘ 1980 album Remain In Light this fall in Los Angeles at The Wiltern on September 29. The special performance will feature songs from the classic record and others from that era, as well as a moderated talk with the former Talking Heads members.
Listen to the full WTF with Marc Maron episode featuring the Talking Heads' Jerry Harrison, now playing on Audacy -- and follow along for more revealing conversations with your favorite comedians, actors, directors, writers, authors, musicians, and folks from all walks of life.
While you're in the mood, listen to Talking Heads Radio, now streaming on Audacy
Plus, browse and favorite some of Audacy's all-new stations like The 70s, 80s Underground, New Wave Mix Tape, ALT Roots, 80s Guitar, Rock N’ Road, Freedom Rock, The Canyon, Arena Rock, Wake Up and Rock, and The Roots of Rock for those who crave the early days.
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