The Tragic Story of Elliott Smith

[@MarySpender]

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[@LordHar]

Those are some serious prices, wow...

[@RecklessFables]

When you posted your poll about why people watch your channel , I answered that I didn't care about this sort of content. Yet here I am, watching the whole video because of a story so well-told

[@LordHar]

@@aaronaragon7838 When the greats like Steve Vai, Jacob Collier or Nita Strauss, to name a diverse few, charge $5 or less a month to learn from and suppot them, then these prices seem a bit steep to me. But it all comes down to personal preference I guess, apples and oranges .

[@zigzagwandra]

Me, me, me... Shameless.

[@akeithing1841]

Hello Mary! Elliott is just up there with The Beatles for me as huge in my life. I am now a fan of you and would love to hear you play an Elliott song!?

[@vinesauce]

One of my favorite songwriters ever. People sometimes say his music is depressing, but I can listen in almost any mood and not feel like it's bringing me down in any way. A true loss that he wasn't with us for longer.

[@applebark7764]

So cool to see you here and to learn you're an Elliott Smith fan as well. And I completely agree, his music had so much more emotional nuance and complexity to it beyond sadness and it's unfortunate to see people simplifying it to that. Truly beautiful stuff.

[@fooball4589]

I saw Miss Misery in one of your playlists years ago, which was one of the reasons I started listening to Elliott! Thanks man, love your streams btw

[@RadioPsychicAstrologyByPepper]

@@fooball4589 that’s really awesome

[@deprivalli]

hi! agreed. his work never fails to make me feel so many emotions though, may it be sadness, happiness or anything else.

[@anotherlight8]

wholeheartedly agreed, even his unreleased stuff is so comforting to listen to. he deserved so much more

[@charmicarmicat]

Not only was he an incredible songwriter, but he was a *ridiculously* talented guitar player, and very underrated at that. Once you try to learn some of these songs, it becomes quickly apparent just how skilled he was.

[@iancavalari7286]

I was watching an interview with the engineer that did most of his records and he said said that one thing that stood out to him all the years later was that “Elliot didn’t really make mistakes. He never really had those moments of fumbling at the guitar that most players have where they’re making basic mistakes trying to convey his ideas.” I’m generally paraphrasing here but I think about that every time my fingers slip off a d chord… What an artist.

[@jeremyserwer2586]

@@iancavalari7286 Was the interview with Larry Crane at Jackpoy in Portland?

[@iancavalari7286]

@@jeremyserwer2586 ok I was misremembering but after some digging I found the quote. It’s from JJ Gonson the manager of Heatmiser his band and it was from a Pitchfork piece: “Elliott had a natural aptitude that was unique. He could hear music and make it come out of his fingers in a way that most guitar players can't. He never stumbled. It was like there was a channel that went straight from his brain to his fingers, and that was immediately evident watching him play live. You only see that kind of skill level once in a while, so when you see it, you know.”

[@jeremyserwer2586]

@@iancavalari7286 I don't know that name but I definitely listened to Mic City Sons as my gateway to Elliott back in 95. I remember they came up and played in Everett at a bar I worked the door for(Jimmy Z's) and somehow i missed the show!! I stole a cop and speeder poster though that was still up. Luckily I saw him 3 times--including his last gig in Portland at the Crystal which he sadly did not resemble the quote you posted--he was in rough shape but the crowd loved him anyway. I lived in Portland from 99 to 2008 and met a number of folks he played with--including doing a show with Pete Krebs for a benefit for another musician at the Doug Fir. People really loved him there but he was not accepted as immediately as Mary suggests--he toured and went elsewhere before Portland embraced him. Any way thanks for sharing the quote and sorry for the long response/bragging!

[@iancavalari7286]

@@jeremyserwer2586 no doubt. That’s incredibly dope you had those experiences. I sadly never got the chance to see him so I’m envious for sure!

[@duncanmacphee200]

I was lucky (and old) enough to see Elliott live a number of times. As aspiring musicians, my friend and I gazed in awe at Elliott's ridiculous talent and his ability to play highly complex guitar runs and chords with ease. I still regard him as one of the greatest songwriters of all-time, and it's a crime that he's still not getting the credit he deserves (Phoebe Bridgers for one owes him a beer or two!)

[@huhhuh364]

Elliott smith is widely and aptly held in high regard by this new wave of more melancholic singer song writer artists, it’s just that his influence wasn’t really recognized until now. As you mentioned yes phoebe bridgers owes a lot to him and she recognizes that, at a concert of her I went to they had trivia up about her and a few of them mentioned Elliott smith.

[@christiangasior4244]

Ugh I can’t stand Phoebe. She rips him off so bad but says she is a huge fan and was highly influenced by him so it’s okay. It would be okay if the music was good but it isn’t. Kyoto is okay but she lacks Elliotts knack for melody. All is is a bunch of beeps and bloops, her “nice” dime a dozen vocals, and just blah. Everyone praised her “Punisher” album so much and I just don’t get it. It got better reviews than Elliott got on his best albums. I just don’t get it.

[@shanee2894]

I feel like phoebe bridgers gives him a ton of credit, basically half of punisher is about him. I think Phoebe is to Elliot what Kobe was to MJ

[@jennak.8541]

I agree with you about her music being blah. I listened to a live concert of hers after I read something about her and I'm not exaggerating when I say that ever song sounded exactly the same as the last and there was nothing special about her songs or performance. I turned it off after 5 songs. No thank you.

[@Beetmonster]

I spent 6 dark years in rainy Portland addicted to heroin in the 2000s. Elliott Smith was the soundtrack to my life at the time. He got me through some very tough times. Luckily, my best friend had a record player, so we got to listen to his music at its best. I felt a connection to Elliott's music & lyrics on a soul level, unlike any other musician. Sadly, my best friend opted to end his life, and he passed while listening to Elliott. I eventually escaped Portland and am now 10 years clean. I still love Elliott's music and mourn his passing.

[@JReyes624]

I'm glad you are clean now, and I'm sorry you lost your friend. Thank you for sharing your story here.

[@scottanderson9132]

Thank you for sharing your truth. We need more honesty in this world. Recovery is rare and recidivism is too tragically common. A decade is a century in addiction. Go well, always. SCA, Sunshine Coast ☀️ Australia 🤜🤛

[@newred8924]

Portland misses u. There was so much heroin here in those days

[@djobiwan47]

I was fortunate to see Elliott play in his high school band in 1986. I did not really know him although we had many mutual friends. His guitar skills blew me away and the songs were complex and catchy. I saw his rise through Heatmiser and solo work and was in awe of his songwriting acumen and his ability to make me feel emotion through his music. He will forever be one of my most admired artists and I hope he knew the depth of connection that his fans felt for him and his songs.

[@radercalisthenics]

Thanks for this. I met him a couple of times back in the Heatmiser days. He was just such a nice guy and was genuinely thankful when people came out to the shows.

[@jamesmcclusky3120]

I only first heard him a couple of years ago. But he's become an absoloute hero of mine

[@trianglesfalling]

I really can’t see how one could compare Elliott to Nick Drake - they seem oceans apart to me. I love them both. To me Elliott is operating in a more Beatle inspired vibe and Nick was more influenced by jazz and British folk. They’re both great.

[@coreyaruecker]

Only thing is perhaps some alternate tunings but still

[@marsoblivi0n945]

Elliot was beyond the Beatles. Beatles were pretty simple and overrated. Elliot engineered a whole new way of songwriting and guitar playing.

[@christiangasior4244]

Simplicity isn’t a bad thing. There would be no Elliott without The Beatles. Anyone who doesn’t realize how amazing both The Beatles and Elliott were has undeveloped musical taste. Radiohead too.

[@andycook7220]

It's just a common comparison that people use, for some reason. It's a really bad one though, I'm totally with you there. I saw Elliott Smith live a few times. I've listened to both for thousands of hours and I can only assume this is a comparison someone made one, and everyone just repeats it without thinking it through. Their lives, lyrics, music, and deaths were just totally different. But they both played acoustic guitar and sang...so that must be it?

[@christiangasior4244]

@@andycook7220 the similarity is that they both play a lot of folkish music that is often about depression. And they both ended their lives. I agree though that Elliott has a more angular approach and there’s way more seething anger and such. Nick Drake is just super calm but sad.

[@RhinoRuns]

This is a beautiful tribute. Thank you for bringing this to us.

[@lagerlad]

There was a vinyl record store in Santa Monica called Penny Lane. They were playing Elliott’s “Either/Or” on the speakers and right when it ended Elliott walked in. The manager said “Hey Elliott, we were just playing Either/Or.” Elliott replied “It’s okay. I’ve heard it enough.” This was during the lead up to the Oscars.

[@frafrafrafrafra]

Thank you for sharing this anecdote

[@user-et2fj8xm5l]

Grew up in Orange County in the 80s and 90s and had forgotten about that place. Thank you

[@CrashExhibition]

I saw a film back in 02 with one of his songs in it. The Royal Tenenbaums. I was 15 and it changed everything for me. Then in 03 I remember looking up on the internet “Elliott smith tour” or something like that, and I just saw “memorial service for Elliott smith”. I don’t know if I’ll ever get over it.

[@andrewnicon]

When people talk about Elliott Smith, it always has a level of admiration and reverence than nearly any artist. People who like him always absolutely love him, there really isn't anybody comparable in style or substance. He encourages a certain level of passion from people that you hold quietly instead of scream from the rooftop.

[@rockstarjazzcat]

Dear Mary, my friend now passed, beloved trumpeter Ron Miles, introduced me to Smith’s records. I was lucky to be near the stage for a Smith concert at the Ogden in Denver. Now both are passed, and my heart aches with the losses. Smith and I are roughly the same age and Day In The Life was an early obsession for me as well. I can’t believe we’re twenty years down the line. Fwiw, Amity is my fav. Thank you for this lovely and gentle remembrance of the man. Love and best wishes, Daniel

[@Just_Me_TG]

Hey Mary, just wanted to let you know that you are one of the very few creators which videos I play regardless of the topic they cover. The storytelling is always of the highest quality. I basically enjoy just listening to you and I know you always share something valuable. Keep it up! All the best!

[@johndogwater]

From a Basement on a Hill is heartbreaking, it gives us a little glimpse of where he was going and it's so rich and beautiful.

[@johnelstad]

I was a classmate of Elliott's at Hampshire College back in the late 80s. I only had minimal interactions with him and I didn't think much of his band, Heatmiser, the one time I saw them play on campus. Looking back, I think his music was ahead of the times and I wasn't ready for it, kind of like how people dismissed Van Gogh during his lifetime only for him to be recognized for his genius much later.

[@rightrightrightuhhuhuhhuh6516]

holy shit i didn't know he went to Hampshire!!! Jesus Christ. I'm literally from Boston area and went to Goddard up in Vermont in the 80's and was part of the whole Phish initial ramp up (i was at the Hampshire Halloween show they played and drove them in and long story here). Were you there when David Foster Wallace was teaching? That is mental i knew a ton of folks at Hampshire and it was the last place I took mushrooms (insert longer story) many moons ago.

[@johnelstad]

@@rightrightrightuhhuhuhhuh6516 I was there from '86 to' 90. That must have been before DFW. However, I did catch Phish when they played at Hampshire (maybe '88?}. The only two things I remember from the show was that they played The Lizards and they had speakers with rotating baffles of sorts to market the sounds flutter a bit.

[@rightrightrightuhhuhuhhuh6516]

@@johnelstad Your name seems super familiar to me did you grow up in Easton, MA? I think i was at the first halloween show they performed at but i had a bad mushroom trip and ended up fetal for like 10 hours curled up in one of the awful concrete bunker dorms there. My roomate was dating Trey Anastasio the singer for Phish and he puked in my car on the way down to Amherst from Montpelier lol

[@rightrightrightuhhuhuhhuh6516]

@@johnelstad i was pretty tight with some folks who were at Hampshire, most from the Goddard or Montpelier VT area, Anton Cole and Josh Brower, and Jessamyn West who were there around that time... I wished i had gone to Hampshire rather than Goddard which was basically like about to go under and had 50 students total and no actual campus facilities outside raggedy dorms and a cafeteria but it sure was pretty up there but just very weird lol

[@adhimustewartakamindbender8899]

*jaw drop*

[@patchesdriftwood]

Wonderful video, thank you for taking the time and sharing this.

[@bixumbi]

Miss Misery is a masterpiece. But for me, when the little piano solo chimes in in 'Pitseleh', that's just divine

[@coldsmusicofficial]

Thank you so much for this wonderful tribute to a truly kind soul and unique singer songwriter. I will always be listening to his songs

[@dls3939]

From a Basement on the Hill I think is one of the best albums I've heard recording/mixing wise. Listening to it over headphones especially, doesn't get much better than that. Such a great guitarist and lyricist

[@uhhhclem]

Elliott Smith had as much musical talent as any three Beatles. I'm alive today because a little guitar lick in "Everybody Cares, Everybody Understands" made me so curious that I realized I wasn't ready to give up yet. I think my favorite thing in his entire body of work is the guitar line coming in after the first verse and chorus of "Can't Make A Sound." He sings this beautiful, moody melodic line, ornamented with a little countermelody in the backing vocals, and then plays this gorgeous, swung version of the same line, over an arpeggiated harmony, on the guitar - including the countermelody. And then he ends the line with a flourish of ascending triplets and starts the next verse as though you haven't just heard something staggeringly beautiful. The guitar playing against the vocal in the bridge before song's long coda is also mind-boggling. It's all so graceful and fluid, and full of melancholy and anger while also somehow being uplifting and joyful. I've listened to this over and over again for twenty years and it still hasn't given up its secrets to me. Don't get me started on "Color Bars."

[@iamwhoiam7482]

“You say you mean well you don’t know what you mean, fucking oughta to stay the hell away from things you know nothing about” --- one of my favorite lines ever❤

[@rightrightrightuhhuhuhhuh6516]

Elliot Smith was likely the most underrated singer songwriter of our generation. I saw him live with Heatmiser, and twice live with his own band. Technically as a guitarist alone he was a monster, but his lyrical genius, vocal brilliance and humbleness was perfect for the music he made which was all sincere at all times or else he couldn't play it. I live in Portland now (above a basement on a hill...) and his ghost is everywhere here.

[@derekcampbell4209]

Elliott really is brilliant. I’m in awe constantly learning his songs, like I don’t see these chord changes and combos together like this in most music. Truly a treasure. RIP Elliott! He’s also the only artist i discovered young but haven’t really grown out of.

[@dougbooth3161]

Discovered Elliott Smith a bit late, when the Figure 8 album came out. I read a glowing review and immediately went to buy the CD. It wasn't long after that, I went to buy his entire back catalog, including the Heatmiser albums. I still remember the morning that I found out he had died. I was making breakfast, and the story came across the bottom of the tv screen, on a cable news channel. What a terribly sad day that was.

[@EamonnJ3]

Elliott is the most underrated artist of his generation- what a talent. Such a challenging guitar player and a phenomenal lyricist - Thanks for this video / yes he eclipses many many artists / sometimes I feel he is like all four Beatles - plus George Martin - in one / Id love if Rick Beato or other music appreciation channels start analyzing his work - - his body of work is encyclopedic- heck his posthumous work eclipses most songwriters ! 😅

[@yomuthabyotch]

thank you for using underrated correctly. elliott was the epitome of underrated.

[@jabosolar]

How is he underrated, he is regarded as a musical genius, a highly talented musician. He was even in the Oscars. He is not underrated at all, maybe not a household name, but not underrated.

[@yomuthabyotch]

@@jabosolar maybe underappreciated is a more accurate word. at least the OC's usage is more correct than how most ppl use it--EX: "kurt cobain is so underrated." but i will die on the hill when i say smith is underrated. he def was underrated while he was alive; one oscar win still didn't generate enough buzz. he is only considered a genius nowadays posthumously.

[@christiangasior4244]

Yeah he is getting far more popular posthumously just like Nick Drake. He is really far more talented than almost anyone besides The Beatles. If you know, you just know.

[@christiangasior4244]

Sparklehorse is amazing too. Also ended his life. I wouldn’t say he is as much a genius as Elliott, but it’s great for depressed people like me who make it worse by listening to depressing music.

[@DennisAlvey]

Thank you so much for discussing Elliott smith. He is one of my favorite artists of all time. What a great chordsmith and songwriter.

[@finctank]

I like to think I’m a rational, pragmatic and generally emotionally detached person, but watching this video brought a lot of emotions back for me about the life and loss of Smith. Thank you

[@AnthonyBowman]

"I'm in love with the world Through the eyes of a girl Who's still around the morning after" To me, the opening lines of "Say Yes" are easily in the top 5 all time best song openings ever.

[@mysticmuffin2198]

love this song so much

[@simongray3966]

Nice piece Mary. Elliott Smith is a true genius, Figure 8 was the first album I heard then I traced my way all the way back to Roman Candle. Incredible song writing. Thanks.

[@akeithing1841]

Likewise! Someone made a mix of California' songs (cuz they wanted me to move there with her) and it had LA, and I was like 'WAIT!' bought figure from there and still shocked how much I love/listen to him still 25 years later!

[@Swimdeep]

Your essay on Elliot Smith encouraged me to listen to his entire catalogue. Well done.

[@mikesearcy9151]

He released XO while I was at West Point, and that album still connects me to the gloomy, grey rainy days while attending a grey, gloomy (at times) school in upstate NY. It sounds dreary, but so many amazing memories to that soundtrack.

[@dleos91745]

I met him at Largo on Fairfax in the late 90's, early 2000s. He was a sweet and gentle man. RIP

[@alexfisherprice]

His songs were just... no words to describe them... Emotionally, for a "heart of stone" person, no words... Greetings from a "Barcelonian" from San Diego.

[@nickbnash]

Loved Elliott’s music. I had the opportunity to see him live several times. He wrote the soundtrack for my early twenties. An amazing artist. Thank you for the video!

[@TheMisterMonkeyman]

Great video about a great artist that deserves and needs to be remembered and appreciated. It makes me happy to see anything done about ES. I was also happy to see that you didn't go down the stereotypical road of "his music was so depressing". It was real...there is a difference. I got to see him play a few times, but it was when he was out here in LA and he wasn't doing so great. I still consider myself lucky to have seen it. Keep up the good work, I subbed to see your progress. Peace.

[@thenightbutterfly1]

my uncle introduced me to elliott smith and we heavily bonded over his music unfortunately he took his own life last year in july aged 55 i still can only listen to elliott in private because how much his music means to me thank you for sharing his story

[@sensationbillion]

I'm so sorry. Suicide sucks. But I'm also glad we have Elliott's music.

[@somethingsunting]

I sometimes feel bad even calling this guy a singer-songwriter, cause there are almost no musicians with that label attached that have his level of musicality. His approach to recording, his impeccable skill on the guitar, his ability to utilize silences like they are another instrument adding weight to the melodies, all that is in a league that sets him apart. He understood music in a way that was special and unique and I'm still sad he didn't get to share more of that gift with the world. It would have been fascinating to watch his evolution.

[@dre6289]

It's honestly incredible Gen z hasn't discovered him yet and he's not all over tik tok

[@dylantaylor603]

​@@dre6289You'd be surprised, as a zoomer, I know tons of other zoomers who also adore Elliott

[@dre6289]

@dylantaylor603 I was born in 96, I'm barely a millennial. When I was in high school no one I knew was listening to him. My older sister is the one who showed him to me. Hope he's getting more attention now

[@hollydaugherty2620]

@@dre6289Let’s keep it that way.

[@patriciabatman]

@@dre6289im gen z and im obsessed with his music

[@agent50813]

I count myself as one of the lucky ones who got to see Elliott play live, probably in 1997, with Sebadoh, and even got to meet him and Lou Barlow outside the club. They were just smoking cigarettes and we struck up a conversation like old friends. What a great guy.

[@ShopFloorMonkey]

Thank you for a wonderful primer on Elliott. The band I'm with has decided we'd like to attempt 'Son of Sam', mostly at the suggestion of our Bostonian keys player, and being an artist I'd never come across your video was really helpful in terms of trying to understand Elliott. You just gained a subscriber! Thank you and keep up the good work Mary!

[@JohnMarshall-NI]

He was a wonderful songwriter. His music is deep, heartfelt, haunting, and even quietly angry at times. Powerful stuff.

[@richardsmusicaljourney]

Thanks for this. As a fellow songwriter, I feel a little of what Elliott experienced. I have loved his music from the first time I listened to it. He spoke from a place where most of us are uncomfortable to go, but he was living the journey and writing about it. Journeys from the edge left me making up for the extra yard I never walked. That did not stop Elliott. I have been a great admirer of his and I am so happy your gaze has fallen on Elliott. I miss him, and many who got to know him through his music must miss him too. His legacy is intact. As long as we are alive and passing it on, Elliott will always be remembered. Thank you again.

[@bunnytarot]

The Basement On The Hill posthumous album is so haunting. The song PRETTY UGLY BEFORE brings me to tears just thinking about it. He was a rare & magical being like Nick Drake.

[@rikkousa]

I love ES and playing his beautiful songs on my guitar and listening to his music. Pitseleh, wow, just wow. RIP Elliott.

[@jjh5374]

Love that you're spotlighting this unique and talented musician who left us too soon. His music is still as beautiful and inspirational now as when it was released.

[@GANGLYMAN117]

‘Twas murdered.

[@shiv2033]

Finally someone is talking about him, he is so underrated. I don't think there is or there ever will be anyone who will be able to write as ingenious and complex chord progressions as Elliott Smith.

[@BadDreamFucker]

Totally agree! He was incredibly original and ingenious with his melody. I wish somebody would analyze the theory behind his songs.

[@kinnklem8534]

while I don't agree to this whole underrated idea anymore, I feel you on the last sentiment... the thought of all the songs he had yet to make is just utterly sad. a sort once in a lifetime kind of sad. almost like grief.

[@BadDreamFucker]

@@kinnklem8534 Underappreciated is more like it. Hardly anybody talks about him on music channels. I leave a comment on every Rick Biatto video, because I think he would love his stuff.

[@kinnklem8534]

@@BadDreamFucker I saw Fantano made an Elliott tier list, and he praised him as his favorite singer-songwriters of all time. Back in the day Pewdiepie had a video where he played Needle in the Hay. Those might have been one-offs, but they exist. Elliott's music speaks to the depressed though, so there will always be a sort of divide between those who get that something extra from it, and not. Biatto might be of the latter. He must surely have heard his stuff.

[@_MrAvocado_]

@@BadDreamFucker you really think Beato hasn't heard of Elliott Smith? lmaoroflol

[@yakopanen6596]

From a basement is some of the greatest songwriting I've ever heard, Coast To Coast, King's Crossing, Distorted Reality, everything else too but he just really had something going on that last album

[@jeremyserwer2586]

Yes A distorted Reality is now a necessity to be free! I agree that record is pretty mammoth and I started listening to Elliott around 96 and was glad to have seen him live 3 times. His last show in Portland at the Crystal was sad but still beautiful--he struggled with songs but the crowd as so there for him! 3 months later he was gone.

[@DopamineOverload]

Missed this video for some reason. Thanks so much for doing this, Mary. Been almost 20 years since we lost him. What a beautiful soul.

[@dudj438]

Elliott is my favourite musician of all time, he is my biggest inspiration for guitar and music in general. Thank you so much for making a video on him, it is clear he has impacted you just as he has impacted myself and many other people. Rip Elliott ❤

[@von_Apa]

Again and again Thank you Mary for another great sharing!

[@captainpic2]

It was only with Elliott that I felt like I had really learned to play the guitar properly, so that it finally sounded like music. That was a long time ago and unfortunately there won't be any new songs from him, so I listen to the existing songs sparingly to rediscover them over and over again. Thank you for this beautiful tribute.

[@alihazeldene48]

A brilliant mini documentary. Mary is so good at this stuff. Long live the music of the quiet master, may his gentle approach tread on forevermore, surprising the hearts of those that will listen

[@scruber64_]

Elliott Smith was unsung rockstar. I love the fine work he left behind, they sound so hollowly cheerful and catchy. RIP

[@stephengill745]

Thank you Mary loved you for bringing this up I like you Mary I found his music after his death the xo album waltz no 2 is my favourite song to . A legend and never gets the recognition he deserves.

[@chuckduzzie8529]

Mary Spender, as always a great video, but this video goes beyond great. Elliott Smith was a very passionate person and you have that same passion for telling this story, and others. Thank you so much for introducing me to him here. 😌🎼

[@gregmonahan8246]

Thank you, thank you, Mary! I found Elliott Smith through Good Will Hunting, and have been listening ever since! What an amazing talent!! It’s so kind of you to honor him this way! He had such a unique quality with his guitar style, lyric and vocals!! Love his music, as it touches the soul! Hope to see you at NAMM this year!

[@silvernode]

I left a comment for Rick Beato to do a video about Elliott a few weeks ago and now Mary makes one. I just want more people to know Elliott Smith exists and for him to get the credit he deserves.

[@stefandrechsel]

Thank you so much for bringing attention to one of the most amazing song writers to me, and he should be remembered more. My favourite is also Either Or, it is more matured song writing without the finishing polish of expensive productions. The songs with their beauty, character and cracks shine through most beautiful. Every year I go back to Elliot Smith

[@kindcreative1]

Elliott will always be on my list of favorite musicians. I hope that any 20 yr olds who love music, songwriting and lyrics will look up his body of work. Thanks Mary

[@RadioPsychicAstrologyByPepper]

Absolutely I am so happy to hear my friend and fellow musician who passed away two years ago has a teenager who is getting into Elliott even though he was gone for a couple years before she was even born. I just have a place in my life when I was listening to just him and I think it kept me from ending up yon the same trajectory as my friend whose girl child is so into the Elliott album XO she is just so talented too

[@lennypane62]

20 year old who loves elliott smith. 😫💜

[@absea7918]

Great video I got into Elliott Smith when I started hearing Miss Misery. I saw him twice (XO and Figure 8 tours). Seeing him sing and play guitar onstage was transfixing. I remember thinking I'd never seen so much talent in one person. As a guitarist, trying to learn his songs is a tall task.

[@SmashedBottleMan]

What a wonderful tribute, Mary. Thank you.

[@TThoMusic]

Either Or is a phenomenal album, but New Moon captured and immortalized a piece of my soul. His work will forever influence my own and songs like Going Nowhere will always take me back to such a heavy, woe-filled dreamstate that is both an escape and an undertaking of the soul. RIP Elliott, if only modern artists could compare…

[@MiguelFerreyraGuitar]

Between the Bars is so beautifully haunting. Terrible that the world lost a great artist.

[@JMTBFLOW]

Really enjoyed this, just wish it was longer. I could have listened to you talk about ES all day :)

[@yuungmung]

Thank you from covering him. He deserves so much more recognition

[@Edge_0202]

Mary, this is Edgar from New Monkey! I absolutely loved this! Such a lovely video about Elliott's life. I hope all is well! ❤

[@MarySpender]

Hello Edgar! Such a pleasure and a privilege spending time in the studio, will definitely have to visit again.

[@wildhorsemusic1111]

Thanks for everything you do Mary! Great channel ✨🎶🔥🐎

[@lopezb]

Mary - thank you very much for making this heartfelt video- I had never listed to Eliot Smith (except via that great movie Good Will Huntingbut I never made the connection). Just started listening to Either Or and I immediately love it. Will have to hear all his stuff now. I also got to love Nick Drake very late, also Bert Jansch and Davy Graham...

[@DarmokAtTanagra]

My ex-gf lived in his old house in LA and there were constantly wreaths and memorials being left out in front of her house and in the street. It was pretty creepy

[@KrzysztofGniewek]

Unlikely. Fake story.

[@CaseyChisholmOfficial]

fell in love with his music while he was still alive still a huge fan

[@jlionz]

Mary, thank you for this very thoughtful remembrance. I don't know Elliot Smith's music but at your recommendation, I will check it out. Thanks also for not only bringing this artist to our attention but not shying away or papering over the dark and sad realities of mental illness.

[@ddude1212]

Keep us updated!!

[@grantwallace1882]

I saw him play at Glastonbury in 2000. I learnt of him through his work on the Good Will Hunting soundtrack. Your fantastic tribute video made me cry. Miss Misery is just brilliant.

[@Biggsey1979]

Mr Smith's music was the soundtrack to my college years! I saw him at Tramps in NYC with Quasi in '98 and a few more times after that, but THAT was one of the best shows I've ever seen. He'll always be one of my favorites.

[@JoseRamirez-id9ne]

Lovely tribute. He was an outstanding musician and compositor. “Say Yes” is my favorite song.

[@anguish68]

I was lucky enough to photograph him for an NME feature in Minneapolis at Prince’s 7th Street Entry. Quiet, humble, incredibly talented. Must pull the negatives up and scan them.😢

[@kingfield99]

Yes you should! I photographed him too for Dazed&Confused in '98 and although I only shot 4 rolls ( I was too poor to afford more ) there are so many great images.

[@frafrafrafrafra]

If you ever manage to scan those pics please tell me where I can search for them

[@renaeshelle8835]

Same!!! Would so LOVE to see them, glad you both got to have that experience 💕

[@adhimustewartakamindbender8899]

you photographers are FORTUNATE!!!!!! to have met Elliott even once and taken his picture... WOWWW 🥲🤩😵‍💫😲😱

[@elliottorion4235]

If either of you guys happen to scan those photos and upload them lmk !

[@diegooliveirabenjamin]

Thank you for this video. Just beautiful

[@alanclayton9277]

A special tribute by you to a special artist and it came across as deeply felt. The underlining of the vulnerability in his music is pertinent. He was also a fine tunesmith (no pun...) and his singing has great individuality. Eclipses Nick Drake? Dunno. Can we have an appraisal of the creator of Five Leaves Left too?♥️

[@claudefradette368]

Mary, I love your channel. I knew nothing about Elliot Smith. What a great composer and also a great loss. I now listen his music daily. To me he is like a Beatle’s cousin.

[@PinkDevilFish]

He also had 6 albums worth of material he recorded before Heatmiser which have been circulating through the Elliott fanbase. Pitchork just released a article a week or two ago with his highschool band who some went on to play in Heatmiser with him later. ES is my favorite. Next month my first child will get Elliott as a middle name. Edit: Solutions Audio is no longer around. It is now a bar and the other mural you found is now a white wall on a spray tan store.

[@rahstara]

I found Elliot Smith's work through watching Good Will Hunting tonight. I shamzamed Between The Bars and Miss Misery then I came across this recommended video of his documentary. Watched it, and I have to say great job Mary! Learning he died the day before my birthday gave me a shock. I don't think I will forget this piece of information. What a legend.

[@meagannem]

He did not take his own life. He certainly played a part, but Chiba stabbed him. You don't stab yourself twice in the heart.

[@xijinpingsfavoritehemorrho1328]

THANK YOU. the conscious ignorance around his death drives me crazy. Theres a question with kurt, but its pretty black and white here. 2 stab wounds with no sign of a break in is pretty cut and dry. She stabbed him. Idk what kind of friends that woman has, but she clearly has some shady, powerful allies.

[@aaronssweetstuff6666]

Who's chiba

[@limbolobotomy]

@@aaronssweetstuff6666 his girlfriend who may or may not have threatened him with a knife

[@aaronssweetstuff6666]

@limbolobotomy oh wow holy shit

[@Danathema]

He didn't stab himself twice in the heart. Only one stab wound entered his heart, the second. Although suicide by knife is rare compared to other forms of suicide, self-inflicted multiple knife wounds are not uncommon in knife suicides. The entry wounds were slightly vertical which is a very strong indicator of suicide. In fact, the autopsy stated a lot of evidence was consistent with suicide but some elements were unusual. Some elements of the suicide being unusual do not show evidence of murder. This is putting two and two together and making five. It is highly likely to be a suicide.

[@sturdychinfilms]

@maryspender thank you for this. Can you please talk to your friend Rick Beato about doing a piece on Elliott? His music deserves as much attention as possible. Thanks again.

[@brysimm404]

My all time favorite songwriter [Nick Drake not far behind]. Elliott was a prodigy and musical genius. His music saved my life more than once. Fun Fact... one of Mary Lou Lord's best songs "I Figured You Out" was a song Elliott wrote, but was disappointed with and threw away [he supposedly said he thought it sounded like "a fucking Eagles song"]. But she knew better and asked to have it. Also, "Miss Misery" exists in an early version with different lyrics called "Some Enchanted Night". There's no way to pick one favorite Elliott song - numerous ones are considered his "best". The more you listen, the more you find. Who else has written so many exceptional songs? Thanks for sharing Elliott's story and music, Mary.

[@christiangasior4244]

You should check out Sparklehorse if you haven’t yet.

[@GANGLYMAN117]

He was murdered. Music wouldn’t have done anything other than play background for a real life Psycho scene.

[@Couch_user]

This was amazing! Thank you for this ❤ I hope all is well 🙏🏻

[@AndrewAlarcon17]

Omg Mary this is amazing!! I haven't even seen the video yet I'm so excited to watch. Elliott is such a hero of mine Edit: Awesome vid. Heaven Adores You is such a great film.

[@ChristChickAutistic]

I saw you on a Rick Beato video and was impressed with your talent and knowledge of music. I loved Elliott Smith, like you I didn't discover him until he went Home. Wonderful, translucent songs, I wish he didn't leave so soon. Subscribed!!!!

[@easypuppy4341]

Thank you for making a video about Elliott! My favorite musician of all time.

[@Lorin_renee]

Named my son after this talented guy. My boy has loved The Beatles since he was a toddler. I guess they have more than the name in common! 😊

[@ttrascal]

Thank You so much for bringing much needed attention to the genius of Elliott, I've been a professional musician for a number of years, and Elliott is one of my hero's 🙏🏻

[@nickkoutsoukis]

Great presentation about Elliott Smith. I learned about him from my daughter. When she was a teenager she would play music in her room and sometimes a song would really jump out at me and I'd ask, "Who is that?" The answer would always be, "Elliott Smith." I'm partial to the album, "XO," but in the past when I've tried to make playlists for friends who haven't heard of him I start with XO, then most of the songs from "Either/Or," and then it becomes a ridiculously long list that ends up including most all of his songs! I think "Either / Or" or "XO" are good entry points for those wanting to learn about him. Thanks again for the presentation.

[@HarryCollins99]

I did not know about Elliott Smith, but I am going to spend some time listening to his work now. Honestly, a couple of difficult things are happening in my life right now, and it made this video even more poignant, but I always love what you produce, Mary. Thank you so much.

[@akeithing1841]

He's been therapeutic for me for decades now. All his albums are masterful. I'd recommend starting with xo or his self titled but they are all truly great! I hope he helps with your difficulties

[@dudj438]

You are in for an amazing ride

[@gonufc]

I'm so glad Elliott seems to be getting a massive resurgence in interest and acclaim. In around 2008/9 I heard one song of his and pretty much obsessively got hold of everything I could find he'd ever done. It's absolutely phenomenal and I adore it almost beyond anything else. I rarely meet anyone here (England) who know him that well if at all so this was a refreshing video to see pop up! I've done a few covers of him but I always feel worried that I might taint it or something. I've always stayed away from that documentary not knowing if I'd enjoy it or not but if you recommend it maybe I'll check it out. For those who know a bit of his stuff there are also amazing songs which never appeared on an album like _Come to Me_ or the unfinished _See You in Heaven_ .

[@ericmills9839]

I was crushed by his loss...can't believe it's been almost 20 years.

[@jwc1977]

Perhaps don't stab yourself with a sword.

[@Rgdonaire_07]

Huge fan here. A gifted one of a kind genius and incredible songwriter. RIP legend.

[@MrPotatoMind]

I've gotta say, his death was recorded as an open verdict by the coroner. It's very possible he was murdered.

[@MichaelRose-gp9pj]

Lived in PDX from 1997 to 2004 ... I can't remember when I discovered this music but it was obvious he was a standout songwriter and great acoustic guitar player. I was excited to see him eventually, but didn't know he had already moved to LA by the time I found out about him. I took girlfriend at the time to a Dec. 2001 show at the Crystal Ballroom, after telling her repeatedly how special he was and that we were lucky to catch him in town. That show was painfully sad, just heartbreaking (have seen substance abuse w/several extended family members) and we left early. Even now I can only listen to Elliott in small doses, but glad his music is still around.

[@seanhopkins3758]

I'm a big Elliott Smith fan. I play Between the Bars every now and then in my set. Glad to see some attention placed on one of the best singer songwriters to come out of the last three decades.

[@formerself4372]

Either/Or is also my favorite album, though I agree they are all outstanding. Incredible music, I've listened to his music for years and years and never got tired of it. Such beauty is hard to find.

[@reverb.deluxe]

Independence Day is my favorite ES song. No idea what it's about, but the melody really grabs me. I'm guessing LA was not the best place for a sensitive soul.

[@TheLeon1032]

im so so thankful, as a elliot smith fan for many years and recent a fan of yours thanks so much for sharing Elliots work, in 2005 living in london his tune coast to coast helped me out of the gutter, the geezers work is really close to my heart, i have a studio now in cornwall n often reference his work to younger artists, massive respect Mary

[@herecomesaregular8418]

I really don't see the comparison between Buckley and Elliott. Two very different personalities and approaches. Both great, but in two separate lanes. I think Elliott's stuff has held up better over time, though. Jeff's stuff can sometimes sound a little too dated to the 90's (at least his grungier stuff can). Elliott hit that magic folk niche that never seems to age.