Calvin Johnson Superstar. - Oh My Rockness

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Calvin Johnson Superstar.

January 25, 2009
Calvin Johnson has done it all. In 1982, he worked for a fanzine called Sub Pop, which became, well, Sub Pop. In 1983, he joined the seminal band, Beat Happening. Shortly thereafter, he founded K Records to keep young bands from getting screwed by the majors. It became, in essence, the first indie label as we know them today.

In 1991, he started the International Pop Underground Festival with over 50 bands. That set the model for all future indie rock festivals. Also in the early 90's, Johnson started Dub Narcotic Sound System. The band is frequently cited as pioneers of the current dance-punk craze.

In 1994, he started Halo Benders, yet another critically acclaimed band, with Built to Spill front man Doug Martsch. And of course, in 2002, he released a solo album. Who would have thought that ultra-low, booming voice would go so far? Yes, the man has done it all. And I now feel extremely inadequate.

Calvin Johnson plays The Smell, on Sunday, February 1st.

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