Roky Erickson, the legendary rock musician and songwriter, is a name that has become synonymous with the psychedelic rock scene of the 1960s and 1970s. His music, which blended elements of rock, blues, and folk, was ahead of its time and has inspired generations of musicians.
Erickson’s life and career were shrouded in mystery and tragedy, from his struggles with mental illness to his battles with drug addiction. Despite these challenges, he remained a prolific artist, leaving behind a legacy that continues to influence and inspire musicians to this day. In this article, we will delve into the life and music of Roky Erickson and explore his enduring legacy in the world of rock and roll.
Roky Erickson was a musician and songwriter known for his influential work in the psychedelic rock genre. Born in Texas in 1947, Erickson first gained fame as the frontman of the 13th Floor Elevators, a band known for their trippy sound and rebellious attitude. After struggling with mental health issues, Erickson became a cult hero in the 1980s and 90s with his solo work, which blended elements of rock, blues, and country. He passed away in 2019 at the age of 71.
Roky Erickson: Latest Information
Name: | Roger Kynard “Roky” Erickson |
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Nickname: | Roky |
Profession: | Musician, Singer-Songwriter |
Date of Birth: | July 15, 1947 |
Age: | 76 years old |
Net Worth: | $1 million |
Height: | 5’11” (180 cm) |
Weight: | Not known |
Body Measurement: | Not applicable |
Eye Color: | Blue |
Hair Color: | Blonde |
Birthplace/Hometown: | Austin, Texas, United States |
Nationality: | American |
Gender: | Male |
Ethnicity: | White |
Religion: | Christianity |
Sexuality: | Straight |
Sun Sign (Zodiac Birth Sign): | Cancer |
House Location: | Austin, Texas, United States |
Wiki Page: | https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Roky_Erickson |
Facebook Link: | https://www.facebook.com/rokyericksonofficial/ |
Twitter Profile Link: | https://twitter.com/rokyerickson |
Physical Statistics
Height (Tall) | 6 feet (183 cm) |
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Weight | Unknown |
Profession | Musician, Singer, Songwriter |
Eye Color | Blue |
Shoe Size (UK) | Unknown |
Hair Color | Blonde |
Roky Erickson was an American musician, singer, and songwriter. He was known for his work as the lead vocalist and guitarist of the 13th Floor Elevators, a psychedelic rock band formed in Texas in the mid-1960s. Erickson was also a solo artist, releasing several albums throughout his career. He passed away in 2019 at the age of 71.
Family
Parents | Weight | Siblings |
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Frank Erickson (father) | Unknown | Sumner Erickson (brother) |
Evelyn Erickson (mother) | Unknown |
Roky Erickson was born to Frank and Evelyn Erickson in Dallas, Texas on July 15, 1947. He had one brother, Sumner Erickson. Unfortunately, information about Roky’s parents’ weight is not available.
Unknown Facts about Roky Erickson
The Man Behind the Music
Roky Erickson is a name that most music lovers have heard of. His contributions to the music industry are immense, and his legacy continues to inspire generations. But who was Roky Erickson, the man behind the music? What made him such an influential figure in the world of rock and roll? In this article, we’ll take a deep dive into the life of Roky Erickson and uncover the unknown facts that made him a true icon.
A Brief Overview
Roky Erickson was an American musician and songwriter, known for his work with the 13th Floor Elevators and as a solo artist. Born in Texas in 1947, Erickson began playing music at a young age and quickly gained a reputation for his unique sound and style. He was a pioneer of psychedelic rock, and his music was heavily influenced by blues, rock and roll, and folk music. Despite facing numerous challenges throughout his life, Erickson continued to create music until his death in 2019. His contributions to the music industry have left a lasting impact on generations of musicians and fans alike.
Exploring the Unknown
If you’re a fan of Roky Erickson, or just curious about the man behind the music, this article is for you. In the pages that follow, we’ll explore the unknown facts and fascinating stories that make Roky Erickson a true legend of rock and roll. From his early days in Texas to his rise to fame with the 13th Floor Elevators, we’ll take a deep dive into the life of this remarkable musician. So, without further ado, let’s explore the unknown world of Roky Erickson and discover the magic that made him an icon in the music industry.
Roky Erickson: A Brief Biography
Early Life and Career
Roger Kynard Erickson, popularly known as Roky Erickson, was born on July 15, 1947, in Dallas, Texas. He was the eldest of five siblings and grew up in a musical family. Roky started playing the piano at the age of five and later learned to play the guitar. He formed his first band, The Spades, in 1964, which played a mix of garage rock and blues.
In 1965, Roky joined the 13th Floor Elevators, a psychedelic rock band from Austin, Texas. The band’s debut album, “The Psychedelic Sounds of the 13th Floor Elevators,” released in 1966, is considered a landmark in the history of psychedelic music. Roky’s powerful vocals and the band’s innovative sound influenced many musicians in the years to come.
Legal Troubles and Mental Health Issues
In 1969, Roky was arrested for possession of marijuana and sentenced to ten years in prison. However, he was declared unfit to stand trial due to his erratic behavior and was sent to a psychiatric hospital. Roky was diagnosed with paranoid schizophrenia and underwent electric shock therapy, which had a severe impact on his mental health.
After his release from the hospital, Roky struggled with his mental health and addiction issues. He continued to make music but faced difficulties in finding a stable lineup for his bands. Despite his struggles, Roky’s music continued to inspire many fans and musicians.
Revival and Legacy
In the 2000s, Roky’s music experienced a revival, with new fans discovering his music and musicians paying tribute to his influence. In 2005, he was honored with a Lifetime Achievement Award by the American Association of Independent Music. Roky continued to perform and record music until his death in 2019.
Roky’s legacy continues to inspire musicians across genres, and his music remains a testament to the power of creativity and resilience in the face of adversity.
Discography
The 13th Floor Elevators
The Psychedelic Sounds of the 13th Floor Elevators (1966)
The band’s debut album, which is considered a landmark in the history of psychedelic music.
Easter Everywhere (1967)
The band’s second album, featuring the hit single “Slip Inside This House.”
Solo Work
The Evil One (1981)
Roky’s first solo album, which features a mix of garage rock and horror-themed lyrics.
Don’t Slander Me (1986)
Roky’s second solo album, featuring a bluesier sound and guest appearances by musicians such as Doug Sahm and Charlie Sexton.
Influences and Legacy
Musical Influences
Roky’s music was influenced by a variety of genres, including rock and roll, blues, and psychedelic music. He cited artists such as Elvis Presley, Little Richard, and Buddy Holly as early influences and later drew inspiration from the music of the 1960s counterculture.
Legacy
Roky’s music continues to inspire musicians across genres, and his influence can be heard in the work of artists such as Jack White, The Black Angels, and Ty Segall. His life and music have also been the subject of documentaries, such as “You’re Gonna Miss Me” (2005).
Conclusion
As a musician, Roky Erickson was a visionary who pushed the boundaries of rock and roll and helped to define the sound of psychedelic music. Despite facing numerous challenges in his life, he continued to create music that has inspired generations of fans and musicians. Roky’s legacy serves as a testament to the power of creativity and the enduring impact of art.
Roky Erickson was an American singer-songwriter who had a significant impact on the music industry during his lifetime. Despite facing numerous personal struggles and health issues, including schizophrenia, Erickson continued to make music that inspired and moved his fans.
Erickson’s unique blend of rock, punk, and psychedelia made him a standout in the music scene. He was a pioneer of the psychedelic rock movement in the 1960s and 1970s, and his music continues to influence generations of musicians today.
Although Erickson passed away in 2019, his legacy lives on through his music and the impact he had on those who knew him. His dedication to his craft and his refusal to give up in the face of adversity serve as an inspiration to artists and fans alike. Roky Erickson will always be remembered as a true icon of rock and roll.