Roky Erickson
Roky Erickson: The Haunting Ballad of I Walked with a Zombie
In the realm of psychedelic rock and beyond, Roky Erickson emerged as an enigmatic and influential figure. His haunting vocals and twisted lyrics, often exploring themes of madness, alienation, and the supernatural, left an indelible mark on music history.
Early Life and Influences
Born Roger Kynard Erickson Jr. in Austin, Texas, in 1947, Roky's musical journey began at a young age. Inspired by the likes of Howlin' Wolf and Link Wray, he formed his first band, The Spades, while still in high school.
The 13th Floor Elevators
In 1965, Roky co-founded The 13th Floor Elevators, a seminal psychedelic rock band known for their experimental and mind-bending sounds. Their debut album, "The Psychedelic Sounds of the 13th Floor Elevators," released in 1966, became a cult classic, featuring the ethereal and eerie track "I Walked with a Zombie."
Mental Health Struggles
Roky's genius was often intertwined with personal demons. In 1968, he was arrested for possession of marijuana and sentenced to Rusk State Hospital for Mental Health, where he was subjected to electroshock therapy and other controversial treatments.
Solo Career
Following his release in 1975, Roky embarked on a solo career that spanned decades. He released a series of critically acclaimed albums, including "Roky Erickson" (1975), "Don't Slander Me" (1985), and "All That May Do My Rhyme" (1995).
Musical Legacy
Roky's music continued to captivate and inspire generations of musicians, including Billy Gibbons of ZZ Top, The Black Lips, and The Flaming Lips. His unique style and evocative lyrics ensured his status as a cult icon.
Controversies and Challenges
Throughout his career, Roky faced various challenges, including legal troubles, substance abuse, and mental health issues. His struggles often fueled his music, providing a raw and authentic expression of his experiences.
Discography
* With The 13th Floor Elevators:
* The Psychedelic Sounds of the 13th Floor Elevators (1966)
* Easter Everywhere (1967)
* Solo:
* Roky Erickson (1975)
* Don't Slander Me (1985)
* All That May Do My Rhyme (1995)
* The Evil One (2001)
* True Love Cast Out All Evil (2010)
Members
* Roky Erickson - vocals, guitar
* Tommy Hall - guitar
* Stacy Sutherland - bass
* John Ike Walton - drums
In the realm of psychedelic rock and beyond, Roky Erickson emerged as an enigmatic and influential figure. His haunting vocals and twisted lyrics, often exploring themes of madness, alienation, and the supernatural, left an indelible mark on music history.
Early Life and Influences
Born Roger Kynard Erickson Jr. in Austin, Texas, in 1947, Roky's musical journey began at a young age. Inspired by the likes of Howlin' Wolf and Link Wray, he formed his first band, The Spades, while still in high school.
The 13th Floor Elevators
In 1965, Roky co-founded The 13th Floor Elevators, a seminal psychedelic rock band known for their experimental and mind-bending sounds. Their debut album, "The Psychedelic Sounds of the 13th Floor Elevators," released in 1966, became a cult classic, featuring the ethereal and eerie track "I Walked with a Zombie."
Mental Health Struggles
Roky's genius was often intertwined with personal demons. In 1968, he was arrested for possession of marijuana and sentenced to Rusk State Hospital for Mental Health, where he was subjected to electroshock therapy and other controversial treatments.
Solo Career
Following his release in 1975, Roky embarked on a solo career that spanned decades. He released a series of critically acclaimed albums, including "Roky Erickson" (1975), "Don't Slander Me" (1985), and "All That May Do My Rhyme" (1995).
Musical Legacy
Roky's music continued to captivate and inspire generations of musicians, including Billy Gibbons of ZZ Top, The Black Lips, and The Flaming Lips. His unique style and evocative lyrics ensured his status as a cult icon.
Controversies and Challenges
Throughout his career, Roky faced various challenges, including legal troubles, substance abuse, and mental health issues. His struggles often fueled his music, providing a raw and authentic expression of his experiences.
Discography
* With The 13th Floor Elevators:
* The Psychedelic Sounds of the 13th Floor Elevators (1966)
* Easter Everywhere (1967)
* Solo:
* Roky Erickson (1975)
* Don't Slander Me (1985)
* All That May Do My Rhyme (1995)
* The Evil One (2001)
* True Love Cast Out All Evil (2010)
Members
* Roky Erickson - vocals, guitar
* Tommy Hall - guitar
* Stacy Sutherland - bass
* John Ike Walton - drums