The Enduring Legacy of Elliott Smith: A Conversation with Fleet Foxes’ Robin Pecknold
Elliott Smith’s music continues to captivate listeners decades after his untimely passing. His influence stretches across generations, inspiring artists like Robin Pecknold of Fleet Foxes, who recently paid tribute to Smith with a poignant cover of “Angel in the Snow.” This article delves into Pecknold’s connection to Smith’s work, exploring the singer-songwriter’s lasting impact and why his music still resonates so deeply today.
Early Encounters and a High School Tribute
Pecknold’s initial exposure to Smith wasn’t immediate success.He recounts a failed attempt to perform a Smith song at a high school talent show, where the judges – also teachers – simply didn’t connect with the material. However, he persevered, returning the following year with “After the Gold Rush” and ultimately winning.
This dedication extended beyond performance. In 2004, as Pecknold prepared to graduate from community collage, he created and distributed handouts bearing the simple message “RIP Elliott.” He and his friends even utilized the plastic sleeves in the yearbook to display this small, personal tribute.
The Spark of inspiration: Guitar and Songwriting
Smith’s musical approach profoundly influenced pecknold’s own artistic journey. He credits Smith’s “weird tunings and different chord shapes” with inspiring him to pick up the guitar in the first place. Pecknold explains that while The Beach Boys showcased the possibilities of chamber orchestration, Smith, alongside Joni Mitchell, demonstrated the power of intimate songwriting with just a few guitars.
Initially, Pecknold attempted to emulate Smith’s style, creating what he describes as “Elliott ripoff songs.” However, he soon realized the futility of directly copying such a singular artist. He ultimately found it more respectful to allow Smith’s influence to subtly shape his work, acknowledging that sometimes the greatest tribute is to simply let a master’s work stand alone.
“Angel in the Snow”: A Literal Interpretation
Pecknold’s recent cover of “Angel in the snow” reflects his meticulous approach to interpreting other artists’ work.He describes his covers as “ancient reenactment-coded,” prioritizing faithfulness to the original arrangement over radical reinvention. He enjoys the challenge of accurately reproducing the song’s nuances, viewing it as a rewarding exercise in musical precision.
He also notes the song’s inherent tenderness, contrasting it with the “empty darkness” found in some of Smith’s later material. This sensitivity, he believes, is a hallmark of much of Smith’s music.
Why Elliott Smith Still Matters
Pecknold believes the enduring appeal of sensitive singer-songwriters like smith and Jeff Buckley lies in their unique blend of influences.He points out that both artists drew heavily from earlier eras – smith with beatles-esque chord progressions and Buckley with the delivery of Nina Simone.
He suggests that artists like Phoebe Bridgers are currently reintroducing Smith’s ideas and sensibilities to a new generation. Ultimately, Pecknold reflects on the profound loss of Smith’s potential, wondering what he would have created had he lived longer, while celebrating the unbelievable body of work he did leave behind.
This legacy continues to inspire and move listeners, solidifying Elliott Smith’s place as a true icon of songwriting.
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