Jonathan Richman: Concert Preview

71-year old Jonathan Richman, former frontman and founder of The Modern Lovers, has had an immense effect on modern-day punk and indie rock music throughout his 50-year career. Largely inspired by the Velvet Underground, proto-punk band The Modern Lovers ( featuring drummer David Robinson of The Cars, keyboardist Jerry Harrison of Talking Heads and bassist Ernie Brooks) is known for songs like “Roadrunner” and “Pablo Picasso.”

Since the band’s split in 1974, Richman has released 17 solo studio albums. While The Modern Lovers were known for their punk rock/indie/new wave sound, Richman’s solo work is much more toned down. Performing acoustic to protect his hearing, his solo work combines traditional folk music with rock and styles from all around the world and his lyrics have a quirky, childlike charm.

Want to Visit My Inner House? is Richman’s most recent full-length album, and is classic Richman. Released in 2021, the record features both Jerry Harrison and longtime collaborator Tommy Larkin. Songs like the title track possess a sense of spirituality; Richman sings, “Want to visit my inner house?/You might not recognize me there because of the different clothes I’ll wear.” Others like “This Kind of Weather is For Me” are full of Richman’s trademark humor. Want to Visit My Inner House? is available to stream with the purchase of the physical album on Bandcamp.

While Jonathan Richman has accumulated a significant cult following, especially since the start of his solo career, there’s something in his work for fans and non-listeners alike. Full of lightheartedness and childlike wonder, Richman’s music reminds us to not take ourselves too seriously.

Richman and Larkin will be playing DC’s Lincoln Theatre this upcoming Friday, October 14th. Doors open at 6:30 and tickets can be purchased for $35 here. The Lincoln Theatre has no specific COVID regulations or protocols in place, but if the individual artists have their own requests pertaining to vaccination status/masks you’ll be notified after purchasing your ticket. The Lincoln Theatre is also a cashless venue–make sure to bring a credit or debit card if planning on purchasing any food, drinks, or merchandise on site.