roky-erickson

Did You Know

• • Roky Erickson's shrieking vocals and lyrical themes helped birth psychedelic rock.
• • He started performing professionally at age 15, winning local talent shows.
• • His band, The Spades, had a regional hit with the surf-rock influenced "You're Gonna Miss Me."
• • A 1969 marijuana arrest led to Erickson being diagnosed with paranoid schizophrenia.
• • He spent years in a mental hospital where he underwent electroconvulsive therapy.
• • During his hospitalization, Roky claimed to be an alien and communicated through gibberish.
• • Erickson's song "Two Headed Dog (Red Temple Prayer)" became a cult classic.
• • He collaborated with ZZ Top in 1981, showcasing his enduring influence.
• • The 2005 documentary, "You're Gonna Miss Me", chronicled his struggles and triumphs.
• • Erickson's music influenced artists like R.E.M. and Primal Scream, solidifying his legacy.
• • Roky Erickson began his music career with The Spades, scoring a local hit with "You're Gonna Miss Me."
• • His hometown of Austin, Texas, profoundly shaped his psychedelic and counter-cultural sound.
• • Voluntarily committing to a mental institution to avoid prison marked a significant turning point.
• • Erickson believed an alien resided within his body, influencing his later lyrical themes.
• • Roky Erickson's raw, untamed sound heavily influenced the garage rock revival of the 1980s.
• • He collaborated with ZZ Top's Billy Gibbons, showcasing his enduring appeal to fellow musicians.
• • "Two Headed Dog (Red Temple Prayer)" remains his signature song, blending horror and psychedelia.
• • His struggles with mental illness brought greater awareness and empathy to artists facing similar battles.
• • Though never mainstream, his work was honored with a tribute album featuring diverse artists.
• • Erickson's blend of horror and rock established him as a pioneer of psychedelic horror rock.

Connected Places

Austin, TX