The death of Alex Chilton on March 17th was a terrible shock to the music world. It happened on the eve of Big Star’s triumphant return to SXSW where a panel was scheduled to discuss the band’s legacy and a performance by the band was one of the most anticipated showcases of the festival. The panel and performance went on as planned, although each turned into a sort of wake for Chilton, one celebrating the man, the other celebrating the music.
With the release of the Big Star Box Set ‘Keep an Eye on the Sky’ and Chris Bell’s ‘I am the Cosmos’ 2CD Deluxe Edition from Rhino Handmade, Big Star was back on the musical map big time.
Just days before Chilton’s death, Rachelandthecity sat down with drummer Jody Stephens to discuss the legacy of the band. In the same studio that Big Star recorded #1 Record, Radio City, Third/Sister Lovers. Jody discusses how the band began, what their influences were, the impact of the death of Chris Bell, the very first rock writer’s convention, and what the future plans were for Big Star. Plus, you’ll get to preview tracks from both ‘Keep an Eye to the Sky’ and ‘I am the Cosmos.’
On the Record with Jody Stephens | The TVD Podcast [131Mg] (Mp3)
SETLIST: 00:00 Intro | 00:57 Thirteen (Alt Version) | 03:33 In the Streets (Alt Version) | 06:31 September Gurls | 09:16 Interview with Jody Stephens of Big Star | 31:27 Ballad of El Goodo | 35:43 O My Soul | 41:17 Stroke It Noel | 43:20 Thank You Friends | 46:24 Interview with Jody Stephens of Big Star | 57:34 Make A Scene | 60:00 You and Your Sister | 63:21 Get Away (Alt Version)
