I was very saddened to read that rock music cult icon Alex Chilton passed away suddenly on March 17th. Chilton was the lead man behind Big Star, an early 70's band that was extremely influential despite poor record sales. Big Star is often referred to as the pioneers of Power Pop, a genre that includes such bands as Cheap Trick, REM, The Replacements and The Posies. After years away from the music scene, Big Star reformed with members of The Posies rounding out the band. They had been active until his death and I am seriously bummed that I never got a chance to see them live.As mentioned, Big Star never sold a lot of records. They put out 3 albums in the early 70's and each one was highly acclaimed and they are now all considered classics. When Rolling Stone magazine released their list of the 500 greatest rock albums of all time, all 3 original Big Star records made the list. In 1987 The Replacements released their excellent Pleased To Meet Me album. The 2nd track on the album? A rocker entitled "Alex Chilton."
Chilton's biggest hit was as a 16 year old singer in the band The Box Tops. The band hit #1 with their classic The Letter. It was after his success with The Box Tops that Chilton formed Big Star in Memphis. Chilton's solo work away from Big Star has divided many critics, some who love it and others who think it is a far cry from his best work. But that seems to matter little at this time. The man's music and legacy will live on mostly through his work with Big Star. If you have not heard Big Star, I recommend checking out all 3 of the early albums: #1 Record, Radio City and Sister Lover/Third. It definitely has that 70's vibe but to this day it still sounds fresh and exciting.
There have been recent rumors about a Big Star movie in the works, though whether it would be a documentary or a drama I am not sure. Another early member, Chris Bell, died in an automobile accident after he had left the band. Bell was extremely talented in his own right and was a tragic figure with some inner demons that he may never have conquered. Now Alex Chilton is gone too. Rest in peace, fellas. The music world is a much better place for having had you.
