Big Star’s 1972 record, “#1 Record,” doesn’t get enough credit for what it really is. Just by looking at the record cover, you’ve got this huge LED light in the shape of a star with the word, BIG inside. It’s as simple as it can be, but looks freakin’ awesome. And then comes the listening part, because you’ve got a great record cover, check, now the music. Sometimes you can get fooled with an awesome cover, and the music, well, not so much. But, in this case, the music is great. I was expecting it to be more of a glam rock record, heading into the direction of pure energetic rock and roll, just like David Bowie in his “Diamond Dogs” album (which is great, and if you haven’t discovered it, I encourage you to do so) or New York Dolls. And, I’ve already heard of Big Star in the past, around the end of my college days, but I’ve never taken the time to listen to their music, there was so much more to be discovered out there, and I kinda put them aside, until this year. And let me tell you that I was in for something. Because not only was I wrong about it being an energetic record, but yet amazed at the same time on how the music centers around this magical aurora of acoustic folk/rock.
“The Ballad of El Goodo,” was the song that immediately caught my attention, not only for its great melody, but on how the song reflects behind the idea of being yourself. The idea of taking that special stance, and being yourself is what really counts in life. You don’t need to pretend, or put yourself into uncomfortable situations to make people like you, because at the end of the day, you being you is what really matters, that’s it. And this next song, I kinda take to heart, because it’s not because of the simplicity behind this wonderful acoustic melody, but a particular message that caught my attention. “Thirteen,” expresses the idea behind a young, innocent teenager witnessing change taking place during the 1960’s.
“Tell him what we said about “Paint It, Black”
Rock and roll is here to stay,
come inside, well, it’s okay.”
Let me make this clear. ROCK AND ROLL IS NOT DEAD! That specific verse got to me, because it made me reflect on how rock, and roll music in 2024 is still alive. New, and interesting bands are taking the torch, and blowing our minds with these interesting melodies. This is why it can also highlight the importance of being open-minded when it comes to music. You never know what we can stumble upon, sure sometimes the melody can be misinterpreted, and ill fitting, but other times it can just cause an explosion in your mind, wanting more. “Watch the Sunrise,” has such a joyful folk melody, and surprisingly reminds me of Joni Mitchel just by that fast acoustic guitar strumming in the intro. But, while listening to the song, you feel as if you’re starting to see a sort of “clearer picture.” It’s time to start letting go of your fears, and go about your day, starting it off on a bright note, where every day is a new beginning to your journey.