Justin it's Tim Pierce ...love your channel... Keep going.... I have a monetized subscription for guitar players... But there are lots of other ways to monetize... You are a natural at this... Happy to talk on Skype sometime down the road just let me know
Dude!! Thank you for this!! I’ve been a “Todd Head” since 1974 when I got a free ticket to see him one night in Philly, expecting to see a night of Hello It’s Me. It was actually Todd Rundgren’s Utopia. It was life changing and a spiritual musical awakening. I was shocked, mesmerized and never the same again. I’ve semi-recently found you and subsequently The Darkness, loving your channel and more, your music. Todd “folk” are universally kindred spirits and I suppose sharing similar musical loves unites us sonically somehow. It thrills me that you are a Toddie. I should have known. Again, many thanks!
Todd is my favorite living musician; a musical genius of the highest caliber, with an ear and sense of harmony/chord voicings like no other. As a working musician/teacher and songwriter myself, Todd has had a constant and welcome influence on my own writing, harmonic vocabulary, and general sensibilities. Thank you so much for this video, Justin!
Thank you for such an informative channel Justin, really. Second to actual writing I love to understand how and why things are written and sound. It's great to hear... May I suggest Chandelier by Sia, anything by Extreme. Hope to see you on patron one day. Much respect and best wishes. Leyton
Discovering Todd's Prog Band (and the New Wave band it turned into) UTOPIA got me through 2020. A Wizard/A True Star is still a major work. It's like indie pop Dark Side Of The Moon. Discovered anew by each generation.
I was so happy to see that you dig Todd Rundgen! He IS a wizard, a true star! Sweeter Memories, Black Maria, Love of the Common Man....so many great songs. Thanks for devoting a whole video to TR's wonderfulness🤠👍💛
My best friend, who is always right, says you are eloquent and engaging. I can add that you are very witty and have excellent musical taste. Anyway, thanks for doing this on Todd. I think I've expended more time and energy on his career than I have my own.
Yes!! Justin, you are the man. Thank-you for doing this. Todd Rundgren is a genius and an incredibly soulful singer too. He also produced one of my favourite albums ever: 'Skylarking' by XTC.
Yeah love XTC - play the video God to make my son feel everything's ok Didn't know about the Rundgren connection Met a Nigel today during flood clean up he's an oil r'shole Those bloody generals and majors getting up to mischief in Ukraine Peace
I agree, although apparently it was a bloody battle between Rundgren and the band, and that always made me feel a bit bad for Partridge and Moulding. The result was certainly sublime, though.
I remember my Dad playing Can We Still Be Friends when my parents divorced. It's a beautiful sentiment and piece of music that holds a sad place in my heart.
Todd Rundgren's music is truth. Been a huge fan my entire life. Became a bigger fan after seeing him live in 1991 in San Francisco. He should be in those same conversations along with the aforementioned greats.
I met 97 Todd Fans from all over the world at Toddscot2018 at at Kelburn Castle, Largs, Scotland in 2018. Before then, I thought I was the only Todd fan as since 1977, I never actually met another fan in 41 years !!! I also got to hang out with Todd, Kasim, Prairie (The Tubes) Greg Hawkes (The Cars) Jesse Gress, and Mary Lou Arnold. I enjoyed myself so much that I did it all again that same year at ToddstockWest2018 in Northern California. Another 130 fans I got to know. Now I feel very much a part of the TRibe.
Todd is really amazing. His two favorite songs of mine are “Hello, It’s Me”, and “Can We Still Be Friends?”, which are about the beginning and end of the same relationship.
I saw you sing the praises of Todd Rundgren during your time with Hot Leg and always wanted to hear more of your thoughts on him. He's brilliant and far too few recognize him and his contribution to the medium. Thanks for this.
And I thought you were cool before… I love Todd ! Too many great songs and then there’s Utopia ( what a band). I need to hear your feelings on XTC, thanks again.
"Can We Still Be Friends" is almost entirely built out of compound ("slash") chords. Just a masterpiece harmonically. Thank you, Justin, for this and everything else!
I first heard Something/Anything in 1974, I was 14. His music has been on high rotate ever since and yes you are sooo right, highly underrated. Todd/Todd is a goodin.
His performance of Hello, It's Me on The Midnight Special always comes to mind, a song that was definitely part of the soundtrack of my 70s childhood. Thanks for highlighting his musical genius, as a multi-instrumentalist, vocalist and music producer. I write this as I listen to him dueting with Daryl Hall on I Saw the Light. It sounds fabulous by the way.
He’s a production/engineering genius, way ahead of the curve in many respects. His faithful reproductions of recordings of Strawberry Fields Forever and Good Vibrations on his album Faithfully are amazing.
Todd IS God! So lovely to hear your appreciation of his talents, Justin. I discovered him years ago and have seen him live here in the UK many times (and yes, he did stand at the top of a pyramid). May I suggest that you try his album 'Healing', in particular the track 'Compassion '? I'd love to hear your thoughts.
Great to see you giving Todd a spotlight. Always loved his work & A Wizard, A True Star is a trippy masterpiece! Sure I remember you playing Dust In The Wind when I saw you play as Hot Leg years ago!
Todd engineered Stage Fright by The Band with Glyn Johns! Zappa used variable speed to change the pitch of his voice on some of his earlier albums too! Good shout to Todd! He’s definitely a Hall of Famer!
Hi Justin. The song Goodnight Girl by Wet Wet Wet was on the High on The Happy Side album. This came out as a limited edition double album with Cloak & Dagger, a covers album released under the pseudonym Maggie Pie & The Impostors. Track 2 on this album is them singing "Wouldn't Have Made Any Difference" by Todd Rundgren - en.wikipedia.org/wiki/High_on_the_Happy_Side . I have listened to this album so many times but never looked at the track listing. Didn't realise this was a Todd Rundgren song until I just heard you sing it on this video. I already knew you are a fan of his but I've not listened to any of his music. I love this song though, so beautiful. Thank you for enlightening me!
Who doesn’t not love a bit of Todd? There’s probably another twenty songs you could add to the Spotify list and still be missing a truckload of epic tunes.
Todd did some awesome stuff but he also did a lot of very noodly and indulgent music that tested the patience of even his most loyal fans. His production work, whilst fast, efficient and liked by the execs at Bearsville for its cost-effectiveness, often sounded sonically blurry (Hall & Oates War Babies for example). I got into him when I was about 19 at university which made me about as fashionable as false-teeth!! His most consistently good album I think is Hermit of Mink Hollow from 1978; right around the time of Bat Out of Hell. The material is fresh, contemporary for the time and played with real enthusiasm. It's mostly him playing everything, but it's probably his most 'listenable' record for the non-hardcore fan. If you prefer something more psychedelic or progressive, the Todd Rundgren's Utopia record from 1974 is really far out, or even the Runt record which I can see Darkness fans loving! Interestingly Justin, you didn't mention his guitar playing, which for the most part is 'great'! I've had the pleasure of seeing him twice - he did the whole of A Wizard.. .at Hammersmith in 2011...with at least a dozen costume changes - unforgettable! The man is a true gift to music and our lives.
Remember seeing him on Utopia tour at Glasgow Apollo 1975. Have never forgotten it. Brought back great memories of those days living in Glasgow. Top bands at the Greens Playhouse ( renamed the Apollo ) with its bouncing balcony and the ceiling falling in during gigs. Those were the days.
I got into Todd Rundgren in early 2000’s when I was in my twenties. I bought his hits cd at a truck stop while driving on a cross country road trip. I think I wore that cd out from Minnesota to Michigan and became a big fan. I later sough him in detroit at the Fox theater.
My husband went to Knebworth to see Led Zeppelin Lin 1979 and saw Todd Rundgren and Utopia there. He has loved them ever since. I discovered him here in the US when I heard “Hello it’s Me” on the radio. Very talented man who truly deserves more accolades. Thanks for covering him on your show 💕
Thanks for giving credit to "Runt." I think "Wailing Wall" is not only one of his best compositions but one of the best ballads I've heard. That whole album is full of gems; the kind of pop variety you would find on a Beatles album.
I love Todd, all the songs we all know, but I like all the other stuff even more. He has written music in soooo many styles, there is hardly anybody who his range.
You are right, Mr. Hawkins, about Mr. Rundgren. He was prescient about our chosen field, and it's eventual outcome. A once-dear friend introduced me to his efforts, when I was a lad, in 1979-80. Mr. Rundgren was a pioneer in the field, as an artist and performer. Thank you, for this introduction for those not acquainted, for them. My personal favorites would be A Wizard a True Star, and the Utopia album Ra.
Thank you for introducing me to Todd - I'd never heard of him, and speaking of someone who deserves a wider audience, please, please Mr Justin Hawkins! Please make the world aware of the late great Jeff Healey. Jeff Healey was a blind rock/blues guitarist from Toronto Canada, who played his guitar on his lap. He passed away in 2008, and it would be wonderful to keep his memory alive buy introducing people to his guitar wizardry. He and the band did at least 5 studio albums, but my stand out album is 'Feel This' from 1992. He worked with other guitar legends such as Mark Knopfler, and George Harrison throughout his career too. Thank you.
loving this .....after seeing the Darkness in Hull and wondering how the great man thinks , these give a great insight into the musical world of Mr Hawkins :)
Genuinely surprised and delighted at the number of artists you choose which I love (and which ones). TR is one nobody talks about really, not enough anyway, so talented & creative. The New Cars were great too.
Freddie Mercury also recorded his voice slowed down to make it sound younger and higher for his Larry Lurex single "I Can Hear Music/Goin' Back." It might have also been to disguise his voice so it wouldn't be recognized as him (much like Stephen King using Richard Bachman as a pseudonym).
Justin YAY!! Thank you for choosing Todd Rundgren for today! 👏 I felt so blessed when I got to attend a concert ‘Ringo And His All Star Band” which included Todd Rundgren (This was maybe ‘98 Boise ID)! My musician boyfriend and myself were well and truly fully gooning out through the entire concert and beyond. We still talk about that concert. One of the highlights of our lives. Maybe that is another ‘good’ musicians still provide along with ‘service’.
Great great observation Justin I've been preaching Todd forever he's a freaking genius beautiful Melodies great strong structure unbelievable producer what else can you say he could do it all love you man. His songs got me through quite a few breakups great love songs
Just discovered your channel a day or so ago. Can't stop watching. Your take on things just strikes a chord with me. Just watched the episode on Todd Rundgren. So glad you enjoy one of my all time heros.
Thank you for this kind review of his talents. I’ve been listening since 1970 and still do. I’ve grown up through the Early years, then the Early and later Utopia. I still venture out and see his live shows. I respect your appreciation of his talents, for years I never thought anyone else did.
So glad the first song you picked was Range War! I really love that second Runt album too, I had it on 8-track and would let it repeat over and over. Lots of great Todd records, one of those Renaissance/multi faceted rockers like Frank Zappa, Prince, Elvis Costello…and a perfect person to do the Kevin Bacon 7 degrees of Separation game with because nearly all roads lead to Todd. XTC? Meat Loaf? New York Dolls? Patti Smith? The Tubes? Sparks? Liv Tyler? Ringo? The Cars? It’s kinda crazy for that guy who seeks out tiki bars after shows on tour to mimic his stoner Hawaiian vibe.
Superb work again Mr H. I saw Todd live in 1993 I think doing his one-man 'TR-i' (Todd Rundgren Interactive) tour. He had a small round stage you could see up close from all sides and in the second half of the show he invited audience members to come up and play their own versions of the guitar solo of a song instead of him over an extended backing track. Properly interactive! My fave Todd LP is the double vinyl just called 'Todd'. If I could keep only one Todd LP, desert island discs style,, it would be that one. Cheers Justin!
Thank you for acknowledging this man. I came across his song 'Can We Still Be Friends' on Dumb and Dumber and listened to his stuff, absolutely unreal, I cant even describe this guy, just a genius.
I love the Utopia album Deface The Music where he writes his own compositions in the style of the Beatles as a hat tip to them and The Hermit Of Mink Hollow. Justin I think you are at your best when you highlight artists like this that some of your audience don't know. I had never heard of Cardiacs until you mentioned them.
Yes!! I LOVE Todd Rundgren. I covered a show of his and he played a long set with no set list at all. He didn't give his band any idea what he was playing either so they had to catch up and figure it out as they went. They were brilliant musicians like Prairie Prince from The Tubes and the bass player for The Cars so they did really well. He was playing obscure things like the theme from the tv show Bonanza along with his hits. It was absolutely brilliant! In a small club too so I really enjoyed it. He was thoroughly enjoying messing with his band.
Hi Jill, I'm just curious being a Rundgren/The Tubes/The Cars fan. When was this? It wasn't The Cars keyboardist Greg Hawkes? The Cars' bass player Benjamin Orr died in 2000 so if it was him it has to have before that (As you may know Todd, Kasim Sulton and Prairie Prince was in The New Cars with Greg Hawkes and The Cars lead guitarist Elliot Easton 2005-2007).
Todd produced one of fav songs of all time, Patti Smith's 'Because The Night.' Really reminds me a bit of your good self, especially the yellow jumpsuit supporting Zep at Knebworth. He stood out on stage even a few hundred yards back where I was sitting.
Todd is a musical maverick who can do it all and has never rested on his laurels, always pushing forward but never at a loss for a great hook when it counts. Definitely a genius.
Nice selection of Todd’s work Justin. Been a fan of the Wizard since the 60’s and Nazz, but the man is still prolific with influential recent work as well. Check out recent collaborations with Sparks, Trent Reznor and eventually releasing one with Neil Finn.
My intro-to Todd songs would be: 1. How About a Little Fanfare/I Think You Know 2. A Treatise on Cosmic Fire 3. Dada Dali 4. The Verb To Love 5. International Feel 6. Initiation 7. Love of the Common Man 8. Freedom Fighters 9. Compassion 10. Zen Archer
My favorite musician introduces another my favorite one. But judging on my experience the best way to get addiction is to start with "International Feel". I heard it in Daft Punk's movie Electroma and was astonished. The whole "A Wizard, A True Star" is mind blowing. Out of time.
My current TR fave is "Chain Letter". Maybe a bonus track from a "Runt" re-issue. Not super surprised Justin H. would be a Todd fan. Loving the series.
"Seeing you or seeing anything as much I do you I take for granted that you're always there I take for granted that you just don't care Sometimes I can't help seeing all the way through"
Recent subscriber, loving your content. As a child of 60's rock, then a rock musician in the 70's, Rundgren was definitely a Rock God to myself and fellow players. So cool to see you giving him well deserved props.
Just found your channel. Thanks for the suggestion for Todd Rundgren. I've known the name over the years but never heard anything by him. Just listened to 'I saw the light'......great sounding Mowtown feel.....listening on headphones the toms are mixed super loud...weird, but what a feel. I read somewhere you went to Hudds Tech...I was there 1980-82. The best music education I ever received....
even though i've played music since the 90s, i never heard of him til i saw "the new cars" playing an original song, "not tonight" on a late show, immediately looked him up. Thanks for making a playlist for us!
I never realized how similar your melodies are to Todd's before this. Right off the top 'o me mug I would say songs like "Get Your hands off of my woman...", comes to mind. Very cool to see this video, Justin!
Nice video you've put together showcasing Todd Rundgren! One of our favorite sayings regarding him is "There's always more!" Always relevant and inspiring!!! Best to ya Justin!
I love hearing you talk about why you love the things you do. I had no idea he'd produced all those records. Look forward to diving a little deeper into Rundgren, I only have Hermit of Mink Hollow.
Man, just hearing the name brings me back to riding home from high school, a bunch of us in the car, listening to my friends 8-Track mix and "Hello It's Me" started playing. I can feel it even now. Just found your channel. Great insights. Like to hear what you think of japan metal type bands like Nemophila. Looking forward to more!
Todd's LIARS tour was amazing. Circa 2008. He gets better with age like a fine wine. Truly a Wizard....a TRUE STAR. 🎸
Justin it's Tim Pierce ...love your channel... Keep going.... I have a monetized subscription for guitar players... But there are lots of other ways to monetize... You are a natural at this... Happy to talk on Skype sometime down the road just let me know
Nice one Tim. You are class. 👏
Amazing to hear from you Tim! How can we get in touch?
Love your channel, Tim. Thank you.
What is this, a crossover episode?
@@JustinHawkinsRidesAgain Skype, he said.
Dude!! Thank you for this!! I’ve been a “Todd Head” since 1974 when I got a free ticket to see him one night in Philly, expecting to see a night of Hello It’s Me. It was actually Todd Rundgren’s Utopia. It was life changing and a spiritual musical awakening. I was shocked, mesmerized and never the same again.
I’ve semi-recently found you and subsequently The Darkness, loving your channel and more, your music.
Todd “folk” are universally kindred spirits and I suppose sharing similar musical loves unites us sonically somehow. It thrills me that you are a Toddie. I should have known.
Again, many thanks!
Todd is my favorite living musician; a musical genius of the highest caliber, with an ear and sense of harmony/chord voicings like no other.
As a working musician/teacher and songwriter myself, Todd has had a constant and welcome influence on my own writing, harmonic vocabulary, and general sensibilities.
Thank you so much for this video, Justin!
Ditto. Well said.
I would have thrown in "Couldn't I Just Tell You?"
Beautiful power pop song
That song made me love power pop. That and a Dream Goes On Forever are 2 of my favorites
Hello! I do lot of stuff on my Patreon that you don't see here on RUclips - you can check it out here if you want to: www.patreon.com/jushawk
I concur. Highly recommended!
Thank you for such an informative channel Justin, really. Second to actual writing I love to understand how and why things are written and sound. It's great to hear... May I suggest Chandelier by Sia, anything by Extreme. Hope to see you on patron one day.
Much respect and best wishes.
Leyton
Discovering Todd's Prog Band (and the New Wave band it turned into) UTOPIA got me through 2020.
A Wizard/A True Star is still a major work. It's like indie pop Dark Side Of The Moon. Discovered anew by each generation.
I was so happy to see that you dig Todd Rundgen! He IS a wizard, a true star! Sweeter Memories, Black Maria, Love of the Common Man....so many great songs. Thanks for devoting a whole video to TR's wonderfulness🤠👍💛
My best friend, who is always right, says you are eloquent and engaging. I can add that you are very witty and have excellent musical taste.
Anyway, thanks for doing this on Todd. I think I've expended more time and energy on his career than I have my own.
A Wizard a True Star, the whole album blows me away still.
I saw him multiple times,the last time a month ago in Boston and he was as good or better than ever.
My two favorite concerts ever were both in Paradiso, Amsterdam. First was The Darkness in 2012, second Todd Rundgren in 2019.
I love that place!
I was there 2019, bloody amazing
Yes!! Justin, you are the man. Thank-you for doing this. Todd Rundgren is a genius and an incredibly soulful singer too. He also produced one of my favourite albums ever: 'Skylarking' by XTC.
One of my favourites too
Yeah love XTC - play the video God to make my son feel everything's ok
Didn't know about the Rundgren connection
Met a Nigel today during flood clean up he's an oil r'shole
Those bloody generals and majors getting up to mischief in Ukraine
Peace
I agree, although apparently it was a bloody battle between Rundgren and the band, and that always made me feel a bit bad for Partridge and Moulding. The result was certainly sublime, though.
Thanks Justin for reviewing one of my go-to absolute favourite artists. Such a clever and gifted producer too.♥️😍❤️
Todd could be in the RRHOF as a producer alone.His production credits are staggering.
I remember my Dad playing Can We Still Be Friends when my parents divorced. It's a beautiful sentiment and piece of music that holds a sad place in my heart.
Can We Still Be Friends has brought tears to my eyes many times too....just like a sweet sad old song😥
Todd Rundgren's music is truth.
Been a huge fan my entire life. Became a bigger fan after seeing him live in 1991 in San Francisco.
He should be in those same conversations along with the aforementioned greats.
I met 97 Todd Fans from all over the world at Toddscot2018 at at Kelburn Castle, Largs, Scotland in 2018. Before then, I thought I was the only Todd fan as since 1977, I never actually met another fan in 41 years !!! I also got to hang out with Todd, Kasim, Prairie (The Tubes) Greg Hawkes (The Cars) Jesse Gress, and Mary Lou Arnold. I enjoyed myself so much that I did it all again that same year at ToddstockWest2018 in Northern California. Another 130 fans I got to know. Now I feel very much a part of the TRibe.
Todd is really amazing. His two favorite songs of mine are “Hello, It’s Me”, and “Can We Still Be Friends?”, which are about the beginning and end of the same relationship.
One of my favorite songs of his is “Sometimes I don’t know what to feel”.
That was my first favorite Todd song. I was 10, and that song and album set a high bar for my musical taste.
Bought that TODD album back in the 80s...still LOVE it...whacky, arty and joyous
My family is from Philly and Todd was a big deal to us growing up. Thanks for the great video, Justin!
I saw you sing the praises of Todd Rundgren during your time with Hot Leg and always wanted to hear more of your thoughts on him. He's brilliant and far too few recognize him and his contribution to the medium. Thanks for this.
Also give XTC's Skylarking a listen to, Todd Rundgren's production on that is outstanding.
Plays keys and a little guitar too
YES!!! XTC!!!
@@GordonPavilion Yes, it will make your senses work over time!
And I thought you were cool before… I love Todd ! Too many great songs and then there’s Utopia ( what a band). I need to hear your feelings on XTC, thanks again.
XTC was fantastic. Dear God was brilliant song
Ahead of his time, Rundgren's "International Feel" (1973) was Radiohead's "Planet Telex" 20 years ahead of schedule.
I love uncle Todd. There are sooooo many songs I want to introduce people to, somehow, without seeming like a maniac 😬
"Can We Still Be Friends" is almost entirely built out of compound ("slash") chords. Just a masterpiece harmonically.
Thank you, Justin, for this and everything else!
I first heard Something/Anything in 1974, I was 14. His music has been on high rotate ever since and yes you are sooo right, highly underrated. Todd/Todd is a goodin.
His performance of Hello, It's Me on The Midnight Special always comes to mind, a song that was definitely part of the soundtrack of my 70s childhood. Thanks for highlighting his musical genius, as a multi-instrumentalist, vocalist and music producer. I write this as I listen to him dueting with Daryl Hall on I Saw the Light. It sounds fabulous by the way.
He’s a production/engineering genius, way ahead of the curve in many respects. His faithful reproductions of recordings of Strawberry Fields Forever and Good Vibrations on his album Faithfully are amazing.
My favorite is the album, Todd … ‘Don’t You Ever Learn’, what a brilliant work of music!
Todd IS God! So lovely to hear your appreciation of his talents, Justin. I discovered him years ago and have seen him live here in the UK many times (and yes, he did stand at the top of a pyramid). May I suggest that you try his album 'Healing', in particular the track 'Compassion '? I'd love to hear your thoughts.
Great to see you giving Todd a spotlight. Always loved his work & A Wizard, A True Star is a trippy masterpiece! Sure I remember you playing Dust In The Wind when I saw you play as Hot Leg years ago!
Todd engineered Stage Fright by The Band with Glyn Johns! Zappa used variable speed to change the pitch of his voice on some of his earlier albums too! Good shout to Todd! He’s definitely a Hall of Famer!
People also tend to forget that Rundgren was an amazing parent and step-parent while being a Rock and Roll genius...
He's amazing. I've had the pleasure of seeing him play numerous times and count myself fortunate.
Todd Rundgren - A genius, a true star! So underrated! Thanks for doing this video!
Hi Justin. The song Goodnight Girl by Wet Wet Wet was on the High on The Happy Side album. This came out as a limited edition double album with Cloak & Dagger, a covers album released under the pseudonym Maggie Pie & The Impostors. Track 2 on this album is them singing "Wouldn't Have Made Any Difference" by Todd Rundgren - en.wikipedia.org/wiki/High_on_the_Happy_Side . I have listened to this album so many times but never looked at the track listing. Didn't realise this was a Todd Rundgren song until I just heard you sing it on this video. I already knew you are a fan of his but I've not listened to any of his music. I love this song though, so beautiful. Thank you for enlightening me!
Who doesn’t not love a bit of Todd? There’s probably another twenty songs you could add to the Spotify list and still be missing a truckload of epic tunes.
Todd did some awesome stuff but he also did a lot of very noodly and indulgent music that tested the patience of even his most loyal fans. His production work, whilst fast, efficient and liked by the execs at Bearsville for its cost-effectiveness, often sounded sonically blurry (Hall & Oates War Babies for example). I got into him when I was about 19 at university which made me about as fashionable as false-teeth!! His most consistently good album I think is Hermit of Mink Hollow from 1978; right around the time of Bat Out of Hell. The material is fresh, contemporary for the time and played with real enthusiasm. It's mostly him playing everything, but it's probably his most 'listenable' record for the non-hardcore fan. If you prefer something more psychedelic or progressive, the Todd Rundgren's Utopia record from 1974 is really far out, or even the Runt record which I can see Darkness fans loving! Interestingly Justin, you didn't mention his guitar playing, which for the most part is 'great'! I've had the pleasure of seeing him twice - he did the whole of A Wizard.. .at Hammersmith in 2011...with at least a dozen costume changes - unforgettable! The man is a true gift to music and our lives.
Was at the Hammersmith too. Btw, Justin did mention briefly TR's guitar playing, "underrated", he said if I remember well.
@@h.m.7218 underrated is one word for it! Lots of costume changes that night - plus Todd Rundgren's Johnson as support was cool!
Remember seeing him on Utopia tour at Glasgow Apollo 1975. Have never forgotten it. Brought back great memories of those days living in Glasgow. Top bands at the Greens Playhouse ( renamed the Apollo ) with its bouncing balcony and the ceiling falling in during gigs. Those were the days.
I've been listening to Todd for about 45-years through his many incarnations.
I got into Todd Rundgren in early 2000’s when I was in my twenties. I bought his hits cd at a truck stop while driving on a cross country road trip. I think I wore that cd out from Minnesota to Michigan and became a big fan. I later sough him in detroit at the Fox theater.
My husband went to Knebworth to see Led Zeppelin Lin 1979 and saw Todd Rundgren and Utopia there. He has loved them ever since. I discovered him here in the US when I heard “Hello it’s Me” on the radio. Very talented man who truly deserves more accolades. Thanks for covering him on your show 💕
Thanks for giving credit to "Runt." I think "Wailing Wall" is not only one of his best compositions but one of the best ballads I've heard. That whole album is full of gems; the kind of pop variety you would find on a Beatles album.
I love Todd, all the songs we all know, but I like all the other stuff even more. He has written music in soooo many styles, there is hardly anybody who his range.
You are right, Mr. Hawkins, about Mr. Rundgren. He was prescient about our chosen field, and it's eventual outcome. A once-dear friend introduced me to his efforts, when I was a lad, in 1979-80. Mr. Rundgren was a pioneer in the field, as an artist and performer. Thank you, for this introduction for those not acquainted, for them. My personal favorites would be A Wizard a True Star, and the Utopia album Ra.
Thank you for introducing me to Todd - I'd never heard of him, and speaking of someone who deserves a wider audience, please, please Mr Justin Hawkins! Please make the world aware of the late great Jeff Healey. Jeff Healey was a blind rock/blues guitarist from Toronto Canada, who played his guitar on his lap. He passed away in 2008, and it would be wonderful to keep his memory alive buy introducing people to his guitar wizardry. He and the band did at least 5 studio albums, but my stand out album is 'Feel This' from 1992. He worked with other guitar legends such as Mark Knopfler, and George Harrison throughout his career too. Thank you.
Jeff Healey’s cover of While My Guitar Gently Weeps was terrific; he was a great singer, too…
Great to hear Justin give recognition and praise to one of the seminal artists of the 1970s. I always love listening to his music.
loving this .....after seeing the Darkness in Hull and wondering how the great man thinks , these give a great insight into the musical world of Mr Hawkins :)
Couldn't agree more- Todd is a genius!
Interesting nugget about the Def Leppard album and Steinman.
Thanks JHawk
Genuinely surprised and delighted at the number of artists you choose which I love (and which ones).
TR is one nobody talks about really, not enough anyway, so talented & creative.
The New Cars were great too.
'Couldn't I just tell you' is my #1 Todd pick - good stuff!
Freddie Mercury also recorded his voice slowed down to make it sound younger and higher for his Larry Lurex single "I Can Hear Music/Goin' Back." It might have also been to disguise his voice so it wouldn't be recognized as him (much like Stephen King using Richard Bachman as a pseudonym).
Justin YAY!! Thank you for choosing Todd Rundgren for today! 👏 I felt so blessed when I got to attend a concert ‘Ringo And His All Star Band” which included Todd Rundgren (This was maybe ‘98 Boise ID)! My musician boyfriend and myself were well and truly fully gooning out through the entire concert and beyond. We still talk about that concert. One of the highlights of our lives. Maybe that is another ‘good’ musicians still provide along with ‘service’.
Great great observation Justin I've been preaching Todd forever he's a freaking genius beautiful Melodies great strong structure unbelievable producer what else can you say he could do it all love you man. His songs got me through quite a few breakups great love songs
Just discovered your channel a day or so ago. Can't stop watching. Your take on things just strikes a chord with me. Just watched the episode on Todd Rundgren. So glad you enjoy one of my all time heros.
I got into his Utopia stuff a few years back--from the prog to the pop material. Just love it!
Yes! Absolute genius
Proper public service broadcasting. Well done, Chief. Todd rules.
PAT!!!
Thank you for giving Todd some love.
So happy to watch this ! Todd is brilliant and thanks for posting this. Nearly Human is a great album...
Some other Todd songs to check out:
Bread, Fade Away, Time Heals, Tiny Demons, Emperor Of The Highway, Pretending to Care, Honest Work etc.
Justin your content is absolutely class thoroughly enjoying it! All the best mate.
Thank you for this kind review of his talents. I’ve been listening since 1970 and still do. I’ve grown up through the Early years, then the Early and later Utopia. I still venture out and see his live shows. I respect your appreciation of his talents, for years I never thought anyone else did.
So glad the first song you picked was Range War! I really love that second Runt album too, I had it on 8-track and would let it repeat over and over. Lots of great Todd records, one of those Renaissance/multi faceted rockers like Frank Zappa, Prince, Elvis Costello…and a perfect person to do the Kevin Bacon 7 degrees of Separation game with because nearly all roads lead to Todd. XTC? Meat Loaf? New York Dolls? Patti Smith? The Tubes? Sparks? Liv Tyler? Ringo? The Cars? It’s kinda crazy for that guy who seeks out tiki bars after shows on tour to mimic his stoner Hawaiian vibe.
Superb work again Mr H. I saw Todd live in 1993 I think doing his one-man 'TR-i' (Todd Rundgren Interactive) tour. He had a small round stage you could see up close from all sides and in the second half of the show he invited audience members to come up and play their own versions of the guitar solo of a song instead of him over an extended backing track. Properly interactive! My fave Todd LP is the double vinyl just called 'Todd'. If I could keep only one Todd LP, desert island discs style,, it would be that one. Cheers Justin!
This channel is becoming such a nice late night moment, with such interesting content
Ive just discovered the channel today and I'm loving it!
Todd is a real genius and plays all the instruments on majoring of his songs. Such a great musician. 👍
Thank you for acknowledging this man. I came across his song 'Can We Still Be Friends' on Dumb and Dumber and listened to his stuff, absolutely unreal, I cant even describe this guy, just a genius.
Love your show - Thanks for recognizing The “Todd” ! PS. Dancing in a Friday night is one of the best pieces of ear candy ever created … thank you 😎
I love the Utopia album Deface The Music where he writes his own compositions in the style of the Beatles as a hat tip to them and The Hermit Of Mink Hollow.
Justin I think you are at your best when you highlight artists like this that some of your audience don't know. I had never heard of Cardiacs until you mentioned them.
Yes!! I LOVE Todd Rundgren. I covered a show of his and he played a long set with no set list at all. He didn't give his band any idea what he was playing either so they had to catch up and figure it out as they went. They were brilliant musicians like Prairie Prince from The Tubes and the bass player for The Cars so they did really well. He was playing obscure things like the theme from the tv show Bonanza along with his hits. It was absolutely brilliant! In a small club too so I really enjoyed it. He was thoroughly enjoying messing with his band.
Hi Jill, I'm just curious being a Rundgren/The Tubes/The Cars fan. When was this? It wasn't The Cars keyboardist Greg Hawkes? The Cars' bass player Benjamin Orr died in 2000 so if it was him it has to have before that (As you may know Todd, Kasim Sulton and Prairie Prince was in The New Cars with Greg Hawkes and The Cars lead guitarist Elliot Easton 2005-2007).
Todd produced one of fav songs of all time, Patti Smith's 'Because The Night.' Really reminds me a bit of your good self, especially the yellow jumpsuit supporting Zep at Knebworth. He stood out on stage even a few hundred yards back where I was sitting.
Todd didn’t produce that song; he DID produce her final LP with the original Patti Smith Group, however. And, they were old flames, of course…
@@vampyros1 Thanks, I stand corrected. Frederick and Dancing Barefoot are also fav songs of mine, esp the latter
@@JasonUmbrellabird Agree... Dancing Barefoot was a killer track!
I listen to Todd every time the Packers score a touchdown.
Didn't realize you had done a Todd episode! Thank you, Justin!! I am a fan of yours & of Todd's!
Todd is a musical maverick who can do it all and has never rested on his laurels, always pushing forward but never at a loss for a great hook when it counts. Definitely a genius.
Nice selection of Todd’s work Justin. Been a fan of the Wizard since the 60’s and Nazz, but the man is still prolific with influential recent work as well. Check out recent collaborations with Sparks, Trent Reznor and eventually releasing one with Neil Finn.
What a unique voice Todd has. Just wonderful.
My intro-to Todd songs would be:
1. How About a Little Fanfare/I Think You Know
2. A Treatise on Cosmic Fire
3. Dada Dali
4. The Verb To Love
5. International Feel
6. Initiation
7. Love of the Common Man
8. Freedom Fighters
9. Compassion
10. Zen Archer
My favorite musician introduces another my favorite one. But judging on my experience the best way to get addiction is to start with "International Feel". I heard it in Daft Punk's movie Electroma and was astonished. The whole "A Wizard, A True Star" is mind blowing. Out of time.
My current TR fave is "Chain Letter". Maybe a bonus track from a "Runt" re-issue. Not super surprised Justin H. would be a Todd fan. Loving the series.
"Seeing you or seeing anything as much I do you
I take for granted that you're always there
I take for granted that you just don't care
Sometimes I can't help seeing all the way through"
You are right Justin, Todd is the man.
Rundgren fan of 40 years or so - great list. For me Hermit Of Mink Hollow is the starter kit.
A Dream Goes On Forever is my favorite Todd Rungren song!
Great song of course. But there are too many of them in TR's discography to make any definitive choice...
Recent subscriber, loving your content. As a child of 60's rock, then a rock musician in the 70's, Rundgren was definitely a Rock God to myself and fellow players.
So cool to see you giving him well deserved props.
I recall Todd talking about the death of record shops and downloading back in the late eighties.
Just found your channel. Thanks for the suggestion for Todd Rundgren. I've known the name over the years but never heard anything by him. Just listened to 'I saw the light'......great sounding Mowtown feel.....listening on headphones the toms are mixed super loud...weird, but what a feel. I read somewhere you went to Hudds Tech...I was there 1980-82. The best music education I ever received....
Justin Hawkins riiideeeessss aaaaaaaaahhhhhhhh-GAAAAAAAIIIIIINNNNN!!!!
I just learned recently that Axl Rose performs Dust in the Wind in concert - it's really good. I would've been blown away to hear that in concert.
even though i've played music since the 90s, i never heard of him til i saw "the new cars" playing an original song, "not tonight" on a late show, immediately looked him up. Thanks for making a playlist for us!
Some excellent recordings by XTC and The Psychedelic Furs were produced by T.R.
Thanks dude, you just made my day with this.
Yes! You started with Range War. I first heard that live, on the Back To The Bars album. A pretty raw recording, but what an exuberant show!
I never realized how similar your melodies are to Todd's before this. Right off the top 'o me mug I would say songs like "Get Your hands off of my woman...", comes to mind. Very cool to see this video, Justin!
Love your channel Justin. Thanks for giving Todd some well deserved props!
Nice video you've put together showcasing Todd Rundgren! One of our favorite sayings regarding him is "There's always more!" Always relevant and inspiring!!! Best to ya Justin!
I love hearing you talk about why you love the things you do. I had no idea he'd produced all those records. Look forward to diving a little deeper into Rundgren, I only have Hermit of Mink Hollow.
I haven't actually listened to much of Todd's own music, but I obviously know of him because I'm a Sparks fan.
Man, just hearing the name brings me back to riding home from high school, a bunch of us in the car, listening to my friends 8-Track mix and "Hello It's Me" started playing. I can feel it even now. Just found your channel. Great insights. Like to hear what you think of japan metal type bands like Nemophila. Looking forward to more!
Todd had so many great tongue-in-cheek lyrics...just like The Darkness. No wonder I love both artists! Keep on rockin' Justin!