Understanding Elliott Smith

[@LieLikesMusic]

What band/artist should be next? 🤘🎧

[@Robin_Str-1997]

Linkin Park

[@bacht4799]

Tom Waits ..! 😎✌️🎶

[@r.m.2598]

PJ Harvey, thank you.

[@frankstoeknife2224]

I like Lie. Morrissey or The Smiths would be a great.

[@mattgushie18]

robert johnson

[@robbiepeterh]

The amazing thing about Elliott Smith is that his entire career was his peak. He didn’t make any bad music; it’s all gold.

[@Skipidy720]

except for New Moon...maybe

[@elliottsmithlover199]

@@Skipidy720 no i like new moon

[@seattleite6631]

@@Skipidy720 That's not a studio album. After he died.

[@braedonsdayoff9409]

@@Skipidy720 that’s his b sides and it’s got really good songs like angel in the snow

[@angel_inthesnow]

@@Skipidy720 new moon has some of my favourite songs by him like "angel in the snow", "talking to mary", "pretty mary k (other version)", "miss misery (early version)", "see you later", "going nowhere", etc. and its also not a studio album.

[@elmorevandodewaard544]

I do not quickly call musicians genius, but Elliott Smith was something else. This guy had the heart and soul.

[@alectitus4859]

Yes dude

[@george53691]

master songwriter

[@JRaymisfitartisticmystic]

He wrote and sang about what he knew... Thats what makes the greats great... Same reason Billie Holiday was so good at the blues.. she lived it... How fitting is it then that the best Emo music you've ever heard was written by a junkie who killed himself by stabbing himself in the heart.... RIP Elliot... Thank you

[@brendantatem1448]

Well said!!

[@Judahgoldman]

YB better

[@tonybates7870]

Elliott Smith. Once you hear one of his songs you don't forget it. What a talent, and one of the rock artists no longer with us that almost certainly had more great material in him.

[@LieLikesMusic]

That's true! He has a signature to his sound that's hard to forget. It would be interesting to hear what he could do with noise music as he experimented with in his last days.

[@tonybates7870]

Lie Likes Music I knew nothing about Elliott Smith (except a vague memory of his name being mentioned in the NME in the 90s) until about 2014 when I stumbled across some of his stuff on KZbin. I listened to the first few tracks of Either/Or and liked them. I went back and played them again a few days later and remembered every tune, it was incredible. I sat there through the whole album and was knocked out. You know when you find something new to you that's just head and shoulders above the average - you know you're gonna be listening to it avidly for weeks. All other music is going to have to take a back seat for a while. That's how he affected me. That does not happen often. Why is he not more famous? I don't get it. :-)

[@jarrodbair2319]

@@tonybates7870 I think he's not more popular because of 2 critical things. 1) he wasn't on the radio(mainstream). it sounds stupid but that's how most people hear new music. 2) the music is intellectual in lyric and complex in song and chord structure and generally slower tempos or softer refrains. This makes it great to listen to a million times by yourself but really hard to get a group of people into as its not "party" music. The intro happens, then when the lyrics start somebody starts talking and then they've ruined the moment and you have to pull out your inner Cartman and "screw you guys, I'm goin' home" I think a lot of people are also afraid of allowing themselves to become truly vulnerable through music, which his certainly does since he can condemn and appeal to the listener concurrently. If you have no inner doubt, no understanding of the contradictions between who you are and who you could be, or no quest for inward reflection on a path of growth the music is gonna go right over your head. These people are obvious because the first thing they always say is "this is sad". It's like someone standing at the Grand Canyon and saying "its a hole". Its such an inadequate statement that it actually becomes wrong. What I've ended up doing with a lot of my fellow musical friends is tell them that there is at least 1 Elliott Smith song for them. In some cases I've been able to point them right to it, but I've also had people come up to me like a year after I've said that and they get all excited and they'll say "I found it" and then we smile and I'm reassured that they do have a soul. Without Elliott I would not be the guitarist or the songwriter that I am today. Much love

[@fitdeluxe1]

@@jarrodbair2319 I love that response. I might try that tactic - there's an Elliott song for you - you just have to find it. Mine is Everything Reminds Me Of Her, though I love many others.

[@yesmamnosir7997]

@@jarrodbair2319 I also learned to play from covering Elliott Smith songs and it’s definitely a fantastic way to learn to find melody within chord progressions. It’s been a good while since I’ve last heard one of his songs since a few day ago and I already going down that rabbit hole of his discography. Easily my favorite musician and won’t ever be surpassed but John Moreland is a rlly good one if you’ve never heard. Dude leaves lays his soul out in every song.

[@bink6778]

I’ve struggled with addiction, severe depression, suicidal ideation, and suffered from abuse during my childhood. Nothing captures that human experience like Elliott Smith’s music and even though my life is much better today, I still find his music incredibly cathartic. It breaks my heart that he wasn’t able to overcome his demons.

[@davidgreen3719]

I don’t know that I do much better today, but I listen to and think of him often.

[@belloutdoors5217]

I'm glad that you ate here friend.

[@alycamus]

We don’t know what happened, the authorities never concluded he committed suicide. The investigation is still open

[@notaperson9831]

Same, blink. Same.

[@correoelectronicomusic3973]

Beautifully put, and I am also happy to hear that you are still walking forward. Life is hard, thank god for music and folks like Elliot Smith, but also thank you for being around for people who's lives you enhance everyday

[@vb2388]

The scene in Royal Tennanbaums where Luke Wilson shaves his facial hair and ultimately cutting himself whilst ‘Neddle in the Hay’ by Elliott Smith plays in the background is one of the most melancholy scenes I have ever watched in a film..

[@LieLikesMusic]

Haven't watched that one. But i really started daydreaming once you mentioned this for some reason.

[@alensavic8357]

This scene felt so real.

[@creatorbeats5441]

Well, Smith didn't like it

[@theHumanBryno]

I was just talking about RT last nite, might have to watch it this weekend.

[@alensavic8357]

bryan macneil it's an awesome film

[@AntonioKowatsch]

Elliott Smith is one of the greatest songwriters in recent history. HIs music always had a special place in my heart. It's raw and powerful.

[@LieLikesMusic]

He sure is. He was a very talented guitarist too. What he plays might seem simple, but there really is more to it from what i've heard from people covering his music. Thanks for appreciating him.

[@curly_wyn]

No, it isn’t. There are and we’re tons of artists like him. He’s not special.

[@Glocc-kf6ci]

@@curly_wyn name them lol

[@seanking1433]

@lmw blue Good for you, we disagree. But please share those artists.

[@nicholaslindenmeyer6472]

He was so good at chord transitions. He was the master of them. Always surprising you with a chord change that really caught you off guard with its haunting dissonance and it always seemed like a wrong note that still managed to work if that makes sense. Very romantic style of writing.

[@goomaboi]

that was the best part of being introduced to elliott. i was quite young and it was very unorthodox - left me confused because it should have sounded 'bad' but wasn't.

[@JackAttackCat]

yes he makes catchy yet beautiful and dissonant songs. fucking genius.

[@nicholaslindenmeyer6472]

Yeah the first song of his I was introduced to was waltz #1 and I immediately was hooked at how he was able to merge beauty and despair so eloquently.

[@goomaboi]

@@nicholaslindenmeyer6472 a hauntingly beautiful song

[@whocares8735]

Its called modal interchange

[@LilikakiTsikris]

“I’m never gonna know you now, but I’m gonna love you anyhow.” Elliott's work always touches my heart

[@LieLikesMusic]

I get that. Thanks for taking the time to watch and share :)

[@RottingaAAAA]

I'm just a 15 year old boy 20 years after Elliott died, I love Alex G a ton, and i found a recommendation for Elliott Smith, and heard he inspired some of Alex G's music. So i played Needle In The Hay one night on a long car ride, then Waltz #3, then i listened to every single on of his songs within the span of 5 days after that. I played it for my family, my dad ended up knowing about his music a long time ago back in the 2000s and liked it too. I was obsessed, and I felt that I needed to know every thing about him. Learned everything I could, and when I found out he was dead and why, i sobbed for the first time in a while. His music is the only music I relate to every single word of and it fucking changed me. I'm not even being dramatic. Last year I began writing songs, this year I started learning the guitar and started singing because of Elliott He breaks my heart really, that the man who made the most beautiful music could leave the world behind too soon. the way that he was getting better after all of that. I just feel so bad, that he just seemed so happy, and everything was going right. I just wished those horrible things never happened to him. He was such a gem and a lyrical and musical genius. We love you Elliott, thank you for being you.

[@mugiwaralee9592]

Great job, I know Elliott Smith isn't the easiest artist to write about and I think you did a great job. He's more influential than people realize and had a real subtle genius to his work. I discovered him at a really dark time in my life, and hearing his own troubles through his music kind of gave me someone I could relate to. I owe him a lot.

[@LieLikesMusic]

That sounds awesome. I can relate to him too. Although i don't listen that much to his lyrics, i think he's outstanding when it comes to perpetuating feelings through his music. Definitely an artist that i'll listen to and keep exploring for many years into the future :) Thanks for resonating!

[@thomasoluic1832]

I agree and share having discovered him during a very dark time. It saved me on many levels.

[@josephham5216]

@@thomasoluic1832 I also did. Which I have not had many in my life. That particular time it was inescapable also, which was nice to be able to turn to either/or over and over and over during that period.

[@kitpalmer1583]

think it's misleading to call the self-titled album simplistic. it's stripped down/minimal in terms of layering and instrumentation, but the actual music is pretty complex harmonically

[@LieLikesMusic]

Thanks for adding that. I think that might be an even better explanation.

[@thomasoluic1832]

I'm glad someone else is aware of his genius in in song structure, chord progressions and harmonics. Regardless of it being recorded on a 4 track, tape deck. I mean, I guess you have to be familiar with something.

[@goomaboi]

@@thomasoluic1832 i think that is the driving point for a lot of fans. he was one of a kind and everyone knew it. not a secret rly

[@alexkesteris3425]

This man stopped me from committing suicide honestly his music is so powerful it's even more heartbreaking that he's gone 😭

[@elijah5516]

Stay strong my brother.

[@andrewrutherford9255]

Elliott has been my favorite musician for well over 10 years now. No one comes close to capturing the feelings he does.

[@atticusfinch6038]

I love how much people love elliott. myself included. I wish we could have materialized that love and wrapped him in it like a warm blanket. But thats the saddest thing about depression even if the the whole world loves you. it consumes one on the inside creeping in anywhere it can

[@noneofyourbusiness2446]

I first listened to his song “Between the bars” and fell in love with it, I played it every night before I went to sleep for a week straight, I had no idea he died, much less have I listened to his other songs, he is an incredible artist and I learned that simply from a song that shook me, I couldn’t say I relate to it because I don’t have a drinking addiction and in general dont drink because I’m a minor, but even then the song felt so comforting, and made me want to drink away my problems, a feeling I’ve never felt before

[@alexz4752]

Replace alcohol with anything else you use to ignore your unconscious mind, even if it's the very device you used to type, and there you go. That's my personal favorite as well. It seems to be the most popular, but I didn't know that going into Either/Or. I just have had bad sleep issues caused by my fear of being left alone with my thoughts, and Elliott is sitting beside me with a hand on my shoulder saying "me too, man" on many of these nights.

[@hvmu6500]

I’m so glad he’s getting this recognition

[@LieLikesMusic]

Me too! Couldn't give it to anyone else

[@brickfootsteve]

I saw him play live twice in 2003 in Philly and NYC. Talked to him in New York at the Bowery. He was the real deal. There is something so special about him music that will never be seen again. He knew it enough to compose, perform and create it but I’m not sure he really knew how important he was.

[@ansoniamuse401]

Same

[@rhiannon3452]

So much damage to the mind when a trusted adult burns away your childhood. Elliot had such a super sweet and calming voice. I remember watching him at the 1998 awards. He looked a bit uncomfortable but his performance was lovely. It was the thing I remember of that show.

[@CariMachet]

As a person who had a fake trusted adult all I can say is that there are wounds but taking other peoples wounds on for them and making them about you or about your identity is self harm and we can choose to put those people away and just be … all I am saying is that it’s possible

[@danielblack5196]

The eulogy you gave Elliot at the end was truly beautiful. I bet it would have meant so much to him. Great content man.

[@LieLikesMusic]

Thanks! I'm glad you thought so. Take care

[@Beatjoy5511]

The thing that gets me with Elliott is his unique voice and the fact that he played all the instruments for all his songs. Also the picking he does is insane.

[@diogomartinho8303]

I am 100% sure that everyone that are here to see this video, have an excellent music taste, thank you all i wish we could do a dinner together some place in the world !

[@LieLikesMusic]

Ouh that would be perfect! Great idea. Where are you from?

[@diogomartinho8303]

I'm from Portugal, but it would be such a great experience!

[@svartsjokolade]

Anyone who loves Elliott Smith is a friend in my book.

[@kurtk3225]

I discovered him in 03’. Still my favorite artist and has been there for me through the best and worst times in my life, and he still speaks to me today

[@LieLikesMusic]

He still speaks to you today? That sounds weird. You mean you still listen to his stuff? Haha. Maybe it's just the language barrier that makes me misunderstand what you're saying here.

[@EVBell-gz8iv]

Elliott is one of my favorite artists of any medium, his music is something I've turned to time and time again - thanks for making this video, i love learning more about who he was as a person.

[@LieLikesMusic]

Well i'm glad you learned something despite of being such a hardcore fan. What other artists do you like?

[@EVBell-gz8iv]

Ratatat, the bird and the bee, Starfucker :) & i think i've read most of what was in the video before, but its been awhile and I've forgotten a lot of details. also i appreciated a reminder that his death is not for certain a suicide and we may never know for sure

[@DSPHistoricalSociety]

You should read the book- it's excellent

[@KevinQualls]

Elliitt's music is never off my playlist!

[@LieLikesMusic]

That's good. What's your fav song by him?

[@KevinQualls]

Wow, there are so many. But, if I had to pick my all time favorite song it would probably be "Everything Reminds Me of Her".

[@allafleche]

Elliott is just something else, there is something in his music that I just can't explain but is it some sort of genius.

[@missmisery8612]

Thank you so so much for mentioning that the cause of his death is still a mystery- so many sources just say it was definitely suicide when there were just as many signs pointing to murder. Hopefully someday they will reopen the case and it will be solved...but I guess it’s more likely that it will always be a mystery.

[@LieLikesMusic]

No worries. I really wanted to read up on that, because it can be a very controversial thing. But what pointed towards a murder? The coroner wasn't able to make out what had happened. Are you thinking of the fact that there were no hesitation wounds?

[@trpackz2848]

Lie Likes Music I've read about it, but it's really vague. A few things just seemed off. Like when his girlfriend found him she pulled the knife out of his chest. But that seems like such a non logical reaction. There are more details like that. Also he was just finishing the album and made a date with (I think it was) his producer. The would finish the album just less than a week after the incident. Also the producer sayed in an interview that the day before Elliott died he seemed normal and positive when he visited him. Just all these things and not being able to confirm if it was suicide or homocide make it a mystery.

[@kitpalmer1583]

TRPackz she just might not have known what to do in that situation. I can't guarantee I'd remember not to pull the knife out if I found a loved one stabbing themselves. And as for it not making sense for Elliott to kill himself before the album was finished: welcome to the concept of suicide, it doesn't make sense. He went from heavy drug use of every kind to cutting out everything, including his psychiatric medication, as this video says. Not understanding the mental state of someone with known emotional/psychological issues isn't really a good enough reason to point a finger at someone who spent months helping him get sober and has had her life ruined both by his death and the accusations of frankly uninformed people.

[@missmisery8612]

Lie Likes Music yeah, I guess I was thinking of the fact that there were no hesitation wounds, and that Jennifer Chiba pulled the knife out, despite her training in emergency medical situations. I think there were defensive wounds found on him as well (on his arm or hands, I think?) but I think the coroner though it was possible that those may have been self inflicted at a previous point in time in an act of self harm, but honestly, I don't have any reputable sources on this because I can't remember where I got any this info or if I'm remembering it correctly 😅 I actually think I even read somewhere that when the paramedics arrived he was found out on the front porch, as if he was trying to run away from his apartment on the second floor, but honestly I have no clue if there's the slightest bit of truth in that...

[@chloem.sanner9349]

Lie Likes Music No hesitation wounds, and despite Chiba being trained in emergency medical care, she pulled the knife out. There was found to be defensive wounds, and I read something that it was quite possible he was dead from the first stab wound. Plus the coroner spelt his name wrong. And it was a good 45 mins (I think) that the cops were called. It’s definitely sketchy. However, suicide isn’t expected and is always a shock. It’s quite possible he just broke enough finally without warning. I just enjoy his music now, and I wish he was still with us.

[@cornlordgaming8920]

All his music is so beautiful, not a single bad song.

[@annab2691]

Understanding Conor Oberst/Bright Eyes ❤️

[@bryceflores864]

Anna B that would be a really cool follow up after the Elliot Smith video. There are many songs where Conor sounds very similar to Smith. Been listening to Conor for years..”That’d be really great “

[@bryceflores864]

Anna B have you seen the video of Conor dressed up as a skeleton singing an Elliot Smith song??

[@atotallyrandomperson3889]

YES!

[@theHumanBryno]

Everything Means Nothing to Me is such a haunting tune. There's a decent documentary about him, the name escapes me at the moment.

[@alejandrosandoval5207]

bryan macneil heaven adores you?

[@LieLikesMusic]

That's a good one. Watched it before i made this.

[@theHumanBryno]

That's the one.

[@AirGuitar]

*Understanding Sufjan Stevens*

[@oliverkalamata2753]

Hell Yes!

[@andrejhatzi6400]

¡YESSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSS!

[@supermentoskid]

PLEASE

[@caketinfairy]

still waiting on this!

[@ishantiwari3772]

yessssss

[@mmanyhandss]

I truly love Elliott more than any other musician, thank you so much for this. The Replacements would be a super cool one for you to do next

[@mrdaniel511]

YES IT FINALLY HAPPENED!!! THE LEGEND!!!

[@ShaneBermingham616]

UnluckyCharm I like your profile pic

[@mrdaniel511]

Same with you

[@LieLikesMusic]

xD love this

[@anthonyrotar]

yassss

[@Deanothefordtech]

He doesn't get as much credit for his guitar skills. He was a great player and wrote difficult pieces

[@StrawberryCosmonaut]

Great video man, I've always had a special place in my heart for his music ever since I was about 14, cliche to say but his stuff really got me through a lot of my teenage years, so it's great seeing this

[@LieLikesMusic]

It's not cliche. Yes it's typical that you get very close to some type of music during that time because we're easily influenced as teens, but it's still something that means a lot to you. Something that you can share with others. And i'm glad you wanted to share it with me. Cheers!

[@cultcomedy.]

'Kings Crossing' is such an amazing song.

[@erosnightleaf6184]

It's the first Elliot Smith song I heard

[@attackofthechimps5432]

One of the best!

[@mickster965]

L.A. off of figure 8 changed my life

[@Toopa88]

my favourite Elliott Smith song chances all the time :)

[@russellpaloor8225]

@Chil Pollins my favorite song by him

[@eugenejefferson1838]

Pls do Nick Drake, it would follow on really well from this video.

[@LieLikesMusic]

Now that i'm doing folk artists i guess it would. I'll do one on him sometime, but i can't promise it will come in the close future.

[@eugenejefferson1838]

Lie Likes Music sounds great

[@lauriecolson]

Lie Likes Music KATE BUSH

[@bradarnold2037]

Nick is so great

[@Zacnary]

Are you working on the Nick Drake video? 6 months later... @@LieLikesMusic

[@svartsjokolade]

I love Elliott Smith. I remember looking up waltz music on guitar to play along and accidentally stumbled upon his Waltz #2. He's the only songwriter I've ever "connected with" for the lack of a better phrase. When I found his music I didn't share it with anyone, it felt like finding a treasure that you don't want anyone to find out about. I think I only listened to his music for 3-4 months straight after I found out about him. Thanks for the video and sorry about the rant, haha

[@LieLikesMusic]

Don't excuse yourself for ranting. I love it when people share their experiences with music. I love Elliott Smith too. Maybe not as much as you, as i haven't really binged his music that often or in longer periods. But there really is something else to the way he's singing and playing that no-one else can re-create. Love how you found him so randomly hehe. Cheers to good music!

[@nicanddan]

I love Elliott Smith so much

[@LieLikesMusic]

Same here :)

[@vinyldiary6664]

Same! So true! So pure!

[@errfunalexander1805]

Same man

[@thomasoluic1832]

Probably the most influential artist I've ever adored. He really broadened my skill range technically speaking.

[@SmellsLikeEMinor]

He's such a fantastic example of someone who deserved so much better. His music is still a big part of my life. Great video, man.

[@illwitness]

This guy was an amazing artist. Sorely missed but not forgotten.

[@caelumd.9694]

the ending has my heart ❤ elliot smith is not an easy person to talk about and i respect you for shedding a positive light on his legacy

[@100theDork]

Anytime I get a chance to introduce someone to his music I get so excited thinking I’m changing a life lol folk did a lot for me and especially Elliott’s version of it when I was younger. I cried the day he died but I don’t think about that when his name comes up I think about his music and how he helped usher in bigger names that wouldn’t have been found without his influence on the genre (in my opinion anyway). I still follow many folk/indie bands and song writers today but none as much as I did with Elliott. Really great to see a new video covering his life and music, he really is worth remembering. Thanks

[@LieLikesMusic]

What bigger names in folk was inspired by Elliott? Just curious. I know Jack Black is a big fan although he's not the best example of a thriving folk artist lol xD And what other artists do you enjoy? Anyone you would recommend for a video? And thanks for supporting me and watching. It means a lot!

[@100theDork]

Lie Likes Music I came to find out Band of Horses has a band member who was a very big Elliott fan although I don’t think any folk artists in that same vein would ever be bigger than he was but Bright Eyes did make music that was so close to Elliott (maybe more ‘emo’ in style tho)I felt it was almost ripped off but I dont know about that now and if I remember correctly Fleet Foxes were on his tribute album. As far as music I listen to now: Radical Face Of Monsters and Men Iron and Wine Bon Ivor Daughter If anyone hasn’t checked it out yet “Not Given Lightly: A tribute to the giant golden book of New Zealand’s alternative music scene” is really a great collection of similar music styles to Elliott Smith, I’ve found artists on those albums that I still follow today and there is literally years worth of music with all the artists represented, I really do suggest it to anyone that likes this style of music. Thanks again.

[@subterraneanhomesickalien1344]

Elliott Smith is an angel! Thank you so much for this video. It’s really great, well done x

[@LieLikesMusic]

Thank you Stargirl. He definitely touched a lot of people's hearts, so this was worthwhile.

[@iawnlad]

Right. You’ve covered two of my favourite artists. (Ween, Elliott Smith) now you MUST do Radiohead!!!

[@theessexgamer8222]

That kid From KZbin you have an unbelievable taste in music

[@iawnlad]

The Essex Gamer why thank you!

[@LieLikesMusic]

I'll do Radiohead for sure. It's just a matter of time. I'm also making some huge changes to the content format so it might take some time.

[@iawnlad]

Lie Likes Music wow! I didn’t expect that :0 thank you! It’s absolutely fine :) a random person on the Internet cant just tell you what to upload lol. But it would ne nice ;)

[@oranginator]

BRO SAME

[@AntonShields]

I am fascinated and amazed that people still remember this amazing and most influential artist to me so these comments will be totally biased. It definitely is a tragedy that Smith is no longer with us but I find A lot of musicians including myself have a hard time expressing their suicidal and depressive thoughts and often speak with their music just like comedians do with their voice and I can’t say I didn’t relate to that. I have studied Mr. Smith’s work to a level that probably unhealthy but it has made me so much a better musician in skill in bands that influenced him that also I am influenced by and pure creativity. I give a shout out to Elliot Smith every time I cover one of his songs and that’s about at least once a month when I play a show he will never be forgotten by me or by any of my friends that listen to my music. I don’t often idolize people but more of their body of work but If I’ve never heard Elliot Smith I don’t know what my music career would be like and that’s the only truth. I also would have to thank the girlfriend that got me into him way early on before he blew up when he was in heatmiser. Sorry for the long comment you obviously know why. Thanks

[@LieLikesMusic]

Haha no worries about writing so long and passionately. He clearly means a great deal to you. Probably even more than he means to me. But i'm glad that he teached you something so profound about music and feelings. I think you're right. A lot of people struggle to talk about their feelings, and end up filling their songs with what they have on their mind. That's why a lot of musicians compare writing music to therapy. I don't think you need to compare it at all. It is therapy. We all need to vent the things that go on inside us. And we all do it differently. Btw, where are you from? And do you play shows often?

[@AntonShields]

Lie Likes Music I live in Athens Georgia and I play usually twice a week as a drummer. I play acoustically about every five months, the other bands keep me busy. I’ll do the Elliott Smith covers with a friends side project. It keeps my acoustic skills fresh.

[@melrose4580]

I'm a long time Elliott fan, and I was really impressed by the research you put into this video. I adore Elliott and never tire of learning new things about him. Great video!

[@LieLikesMusic]

Thanks Mel that's very nice of you. Is there any other artists that you're a fan of that you want me to cover? 🙃

[@rcdowdy]

Excellent article. Elliott was such a gift with so many problems he could not overcome. We are blessed to have his music yet sad because he is gone.

[@rebellious-jukebox-on-film238]

Wow I wasn't aware of the sexual abuse suspicions. While we'll never know for sure, there is a part in Heaven Adores You where an interviewer is asking Elliott about why he left Texas and Elliott struck me as being uncomfortable talking about specific reasons. Elliott is such an underrated artist and his songs were so deceptively well written that the lyrics are often not understood because of his melodic guitar playing alongside them.

[@LieLikesMusic]

Props for the vegan vibes! And yes there seems to have been something deeply disturbing going on in his past. And yes his music is quite deceptive. It´s so beautiful, but you know that there´s a lot more to them. RIP Elliott. Thanks for watching!

[@justayoutubecommentator3059]

I believe it was all true.

[@btrixlestrange]

I remember that part I was really curious. Now it makes sense.

[@josephmarcott7295]

Still haven't found any evidence that Elliott was sexually abused by his stepdad. This video is pretty misleadingly suggestive about that, with no information to support the claim. Wouldn't trust much from this video

[@The-bi5ry]

I have immense respect for his music, hes my favourite. He saved my life so many times since i was 14 yrs old. But, even more, I love him as a person. He was such a raw, authentic person who deserved a peaceful life. RIP

[@vikonja121]

Enjoyed the video, and I have to add, Elliott is an incredible artist who drained all of his emotions into his songs, making some of the most hauntingly beautiful songs ever. You can't really pinpoint what it is (I think it's just his artistic and musical ingenuity), but all of his songs, especially from the first three albums, have such a personal, dark and emotional note to them, that listening to them makes you feel like you're sitting next to him while he's playing them. Very sad life story altogether, but I guess the heavy burden and memories he carried with him all his life are what shaped his music into what it is.

[@LieLikesMusic]

Yes that's the weird truth. If he hadn't gone through all that tough shit, then maybe he wouldn't be able to create such beautiful music. I'm glad tat you enjoyed watching this. Cheers from Norway :)

[@eternity9099]

Elliott Smith is one of my favorite Artists of all time. Him and Jeff Buckley are two that went way too soon. I often think of the incredible music they would have made and would still be making if they were still around. I knew a little bit about his struggles but this video really shed a lot of light on what exactly he was going through. It’s s very sad story.

[@LieLikesMusic]

I'm glad this helped you figure out what happened to him. He's definitely a musician that i would love to listen to more in years to come. Same with Jeff and Tim Buckley btw. They both seem very talented although i haven't listened that much to their discographies.

[@stealingtomorrowband]

I used to hate Elliott and Jeff Buckley... My best friend was always saying open your mind up and give it a chance... 18 years later Elliott and Jeff are 2 of my Favorite artists . Both gone way before they should have .... I've been saved by their music many times, and wish they were here ti see the impact they have made in the music world

[@beast_boy97]

4:25 it's actually important to note that his girlfriend at the time delivered the tapes to the record company. Elliott never intended those songs to be heard, but they liked what he had and he reluctantly allowed them to publish the songs.

[@ImprovEyes-fc9fo]

Elliott seems to connect with me during my bipolar dips and manic discomfort so well it’s amazing. That’s why individuals who think drugs are bad for art don’t seem to understand there are people who have conditions like mine which takes the control of your emotions out of your hands… just like drugs.. so we often medicate and nee to somehow justify our self destruction to people as if it’s anyone else’s damn business. Remember, if you find One Single true friend you should consider yourself lucky. Number III I’m having a manic episode again.. this time I covered some Elliott songs on my Channel.. I’m not great but playing really helps me and I wish I could do for others what music has done for me.

[@sharpskinhead6977]

I first heard Elliott Smith in Wes Anderson's "The Excentrics Tenenbaums" with "Needle in the hay", one of the most dramatic scenes I've ever watched.

[@niraj_was_here]

Elliott is not with us now, but his songs will be always stays in our hearts forever

[@LieLikesMusic]

For sure. RIP Elliott. The most soulful singer ever

[@josephedwards4325]

This is just a biography, containing facts that anyone can find out from Wikipedia. Nothing to do with "understanding him" at all.

[@SheRobot]

Elliott was actually very emphatic that he did not consider himself a folk artist at all, and explained very well why in an interview I saw somewhere else on KZbin (but of course I can't find it now!)

[@SaltChroniclesHearthstoneArena]

Elliott Smith is pure genius. You can also do Blind Melon, Mad Season (and Alice in Chains), Chad Vangaalen, Jeff Buckley :)

[@LieLikesMusic]

He sure is. Thanks for the requests :) I'll most likely do Jeff B 😃

[@SaltChroniclesHearthstoneArena]

Lie Likes Music cool. Good luck with growing your channel, I hope more people will dive into Elliott's world of music.

[@el_Ewok]

Glad to find out you also like Jeff Buckley. Do you think Kripparrian also shares our tastes? :D

[@DarkPriestessJae]

OMG! Mad Season! 💗💗💗💗 But Jeff Buckley is obviously a great choice too!

[@svartsjokolade]

Elliott Smith, Alice in Chains and Jeff Buckley? Can we be best friends?

[@Punkpsychobilly]

I see that Elliott played Yamaha acoustic guitars. Impeccable taste. Normal, everyday people don’t know how hard it is to suffer from depression as a musician. It gets to the point sometimes, where you don’t even want to do the one thing that truly makes you happy. And that is a mind fuck in itself. Elliott Smith was an amazing artist, and it’s sad that the world lost him far too soon.

[@LieLikesMusic]

Don't know much about guitars tbh. But i have suffered from depression myself. And that's a tough rabbit hole to go into. Luckily for me i never got to the point where i needed help.

[@TheRealValus]

I wouldn't't call his early sound simplistic. Minimalistic, maybe?

[@LieLikesMusic]

What difference do you lay between those words?

[@blackspring3207]

+Lie Likes Music simplistic means over-simplifying something that needs nuance or complexity to understand

[@theviciouscircle1541]

@@LieLikesMusic simplistic is strumming 3 chords over and over with predictability

[@Hubzer0]

I think what Valkin is trying to say is that minimalistic can also be complex however simplistic is the opposite of complex.

[@Anderson_CCTV]

Exactly.

[@zhiyarali557]

R.I.P the angel

[@LieLikesMusic]

I'm glad you found it too. I love Elliott Smith so it was a pleasure making this.

[@MrChristoffer46]

Been a huge fan of Elliots music for a while now and this video really was a highlight on my week, thank you so much for posting!

[@LieLikesMusic]

That's very kind of you man. Thanks for taking the time to watch ;)

[@TheMisterMonkeyman]

You did a great job covering all the basics of his life. I think it's great that you did a video on Elliott, I'm happy anytime people talk about and remember him. He was a great artist/human and deserves to be remembered. I also think it's great that you didn't focus, like so many do, on him being an apparent "depressing" person/musician. Sure some of his stuff was pretty dark, but it was also real and beautiful. I don't want to be this guy, but I'm gonna be...Elliott hated being referred to as a "folk" artist. He felt it made people lump him in with artists like Paul Simon, who he liked, but didn't feel they played the same kind of music. Just because he primarily played on acoustic guitar. Peace.

[@col2281]

Someone said something in the documentary "Heaven Adores You" like, "it'd be great if we could focus less on the negative drama surrounding Elliott's life and just listen to his music." This video does talk about the negative a bit but I was happy to learn some things that I didn't know. From a guitar player's point of view his chord progressions and melodies were outstanding.

[@LieLikesMusic]

If i was to introduce someone new to Elliott i think it would be wrong to just exclude all the negative stuff, because that was a part of who he was. I'm glad you learned something new here though :) Many thanks from Norway.

[@eldeluxo]

Thank you for doing this Elliott Smith bio in a very respectful manner.

[@Thepriestessdeath]

He was such an Earth Angel 🥺

[@TellEveryoneRecords]

Understanding Jeff Buckley, ESPECIALLY the amazing work beyond Hallelujah.

[@SLASHERHEATH]

Nick Drake while you're still in a lo-fi, tragic mood!

[@LieLikesMusic]

Hahah xD

[@galacticspacebear9589]

Hey, I just found out about him yesterday! I haven't listened to very much of his stuff, but he sounds really good :)

[@CamSim]

Yes please do this!

[@musicjunkie8771]

SnarftheShmoo My man, get yourself acquainted with Place To Be, 'Cello Song, Black Dog, and Things Behind The Sun. And Three hours. It's just all so good

[@rjx9332]

Im now discovering his music i know im late but waooo just gets to my soul ,i heard "everything means nothing to me " and for the first time in my life tears started just flowing from hearing a song... beatiful music thank u Elliott Smith

[@HighOnTheSound]

Hey man, I just happened to come across this by accident. I was (still very much am) a huge Elliott Smith fan. You did an excellent job on this for the short amount of time it is. You gained a new subscriber just from this video. Keep up the good work!

[@LieLikesMusic]

Ey that's awesome! Thanks for taking the time to watch and subscribe. Are there any other bands or artists that you would like to see in the future?

[@Anomaly24k]

I was introduced to this amazing musician through the "rick and morty" series, I know he's really someone when he makes a person like rick emotional and cry.

[@wellrose17]

I went through a serious Elliott Smith phase. Still hands down the best singer songwriter of recent time. It had a depressing effect on me though. So I have to be careful. That's how perfect his music is

[@TastyTarco]

i remember watching a video recently made by school of life. the video was talking about how if babies and young kids are not allowed to be kids (crying and making a fuss) but instead abused and shouted at then they grow up to have a tendency to rebel to every conventions and societal norms, this is detremental because in order to fit in with others you need to bend your ownself a little bit, but to the abused child they subconciously developed a need to rebel. watching this video really made the whole thing make more sense, Elliot was a hurt soul, its so unfortunate that things ended the way it did

[@bradarnold2037]

Roman Candle was the first song I ever heard from Elliott Smith. I just remember thinking, "wow somebody really hurt this guy", and then later I read about the abuse from his stepfather. That song really exemplifies the emotional release only Elliott could do with his beautiful music. Even the guitar outro makes me cry.

[@LieLikesMusic]

Yes you can really hear that. I think his music is beautiful too, but i'm having a hard time listening to it these days. It's a bit too melancholic. Maybe i'm not sad or depressed enough haha. Anyways, thank you so much for watching and sharing. It means a lot!

[@bradarnold2037]

No problem bro! Great video on the master of sadness, Elliott. Yeah, I go through phases of listening to him. I'm listening to XO right now actually. I think his all-time saddest song is No Name # 5 and I gotta say his sad shit is the best.

[@petracora]

I’m so glad you made this video, because Smith is one of my favorite artists, and I don’t think I really understood him before this.

[@rictualfury965]

Still waiting for that video on the smiths

[@LieLikesMusic]

I'm still working on it

[@bauhausa6933]

Lie Likes Music dude,don't rush it.You have higher quality comtent than many yt channels)

[@gir2005]

rictualfury holy shit that photo of finn 👌🏼👌🏼

[@halcyonrain2209]

Thanks for taking the time to appreciate this video :D

[@dirkardostevergreen4827]

I used to have Roman Candle on cassette in my car. Have no idea how it got there and Elliot wasn't someone I was really aware of but sometimes I'd chuck it on. I never really took much notice as his music is kind of low key until one day - and I remember it really clearly - it just clicked. I was listening to one of his songs and thought to myself, hey this guy is _really_ good! I've been listening to his music consistently ever since. He was a masterful musician. Every one who likes music should give him a go.

[@LoLProdos]

Would love to see a video on The Growlers and surf rock nowadays. Love your videos man, thank you for content.

[@LieLikesMusic]

No problem :) What type of surf rock bands do you like? Wavves? Surfer Blood?

[@LoLProdos]

Lie Likes Music Love em all Wavves, Surfer Blood, La Luz, FIDLAR, chicano batman. I love a lot the influence and stories The Growlers have on their sound and lyrics. Anything with that psychedelic , beach, California sound is great. How they take influence from the 60s with Dick Dale and the beach boys, etc. Thanks

[@LoLProdos]

Lie Likes Music another surf rock band I recommend is Mystic Braves.

[@desperateidiot]

oh elliott, we miss you...

[@mrticitoucou]

Understanding The Pixies

[@ilbianco88]

Elliott Smith's sense of harmony really brings Beatles to my mind

[@Knobsmacker]

Elliott Smith was murdered, nobody stabs themselves TWICE in the heart and he had clear defensive wounds. The story and investigation are as suspicious as it gets. Cheers for the video mate. God bless his soul, his music means a lot to me...

[@LieLikesMusic]

Where do you read about these things? Thanks for providing a different view although i can't trust what you're saying. Thanks for watching nonetheless.

[@Knobsmacker]

Lie Likes Music I looked into it a lot a couple years ago, there are some good reddit posts giving good summaries and laying out the facts but the best source is this website. After finding it I'm pretty convinced though I always found it suspicious. www.justiceforelliottsmithcom.wordpress.com

[@nicholaslindenmeyer6472]

Yeah I agree.

[@Thepriestessdeath]

💯 it’s sad how often this has happened with celebrities…just because a person has a history of self harm or suicidal tendencies doesn’t mean their death didn’t deserve a proper investigation. If Elliott wasn’t even his real name why would he sign the suicide note with that name? Let alone misspell it! He was a beautiful soul and it’s tragic…

[@nedz.4379]

@@LieLikesMusic you can find the autopsy photos and documents stating he had an argument with his significant other she then said he took a kitchen knife and locked himself into the bathroom. Then she heard screaming and he had three stab wounds apparently self inflicted when medics arrived on scene

[@baddestjoanna-michellesmit5578]

Thanks for this .... I got into Elliot by the time he died and I was sad to hear can't hear him live. In high school about 20 years ago I was introduced, I'll never forget .

[@decalice4272]

Understanding Big Star, one of Smith's biggest influences.

[@LieLikesMusic]

Hmm interesting

[@towervu1]

I only recently discovered this artist and Imexcited to learn more about him and listen to his music. My name is also Steven Paul Smith and I was also born in the 60s and was a basement musician recording on a 4-track but I didn't produce anything remarkable. I've struggled with quite severe depression most of my life and one of my main hobbies is collecting high-end knives. But I'm not suicidal and perhaps fortunate I don't have a girlfriend. I hope I like his music since I have a few things in common.

[@violentbadger6401]

Or Iron & Wine would be amazing, he's soooo good

[@bauhausa6933]

You know what I love about this channel.You have a growing following but community is still relatively small.It just feels so humble)

[@LieLikesMusic]

Hmm interesting! But what specifically do you refer when you say community? Like the comment section? Thanks for sharing.

[@bauhausa6933]

Lie Likes Music the comment section,the people who tune into your videos whenever you upload,simply put the people who love your content like me)

[@robbanks8514]

The Lizard King please

[@clementrohitgomes6966]

Please do velvet underground.

[@LieLikesMusic]

Here it is kzbin.info/www/bejne/p6icg3uMn5eFfbc

[@CakeRocketProduction]

Thank you for making this video. I've been a fan of Elliott for years now, and there are too few videos about him on the web.

[@LieLikesMusic]

That's what i thought too. And now there's one more. Thank you so much for watching

[@ipsurvivor]

Vsauce 7 - there’s a lot of bad information and this has some inaccuracies and basically reflects the retched Spin article about him. Fails to mention what a horrible investigation the LAPD did... which colors everything now...

[@MB-xh4gf]

Underated genius

[@musicisbrilliant]

I LOVE LOVE LOVE Elliott!!!! Great choice!!! As always, dearly love these. Please never stop!!!

[@sidmicheals9739]

the ending was beautiful im glad you didn't just focus on the drug addiction

[@LieLikesMusic]

Nah there's a lot more to the man than that. Thanks for watching and commenting

[@denisemiller5654]

Everything about his music evoked an eerie sort of vibe...calm water rushing quickly over the falls. Have a memory here to share. I was living in Seattle in early 2000's, when around early 2002, every time I would run into a friend of ours, this friend would say "did you hear, Elliott Smith is missing"?. He must have said this for like half a year in early 2003, and then come to learn he dies in the fall of 2003. Eerie.

[@lunaderacine]

Do Jeff Buckley next!! ❤

[@jacksonpriest2033]

I'm so happy some still remember him. We miss you elliott.

[@MrMediafy]

MODEST MOUSE?

[@samkaufman5232]

I dated his ex girlfriend Blake back in Portland back around 97-98. Met the man a few times. Never has a clue he played such amazing music until many years later. In my memory, he was a very humble, down to earth dude. It was Portland in the late 90's. Vespa scooter gangs romes the streets(Rip Mike W). The best of times for some, the worst of times for others.

[@aye6019]

Understanding The Cure