Something 4 The Weekend # 150

Jay Reatard: Matador Singles '08: "You Were Sleeping" [mp3]

Memphis Garage Rock wunderkind Jay Reatard (Jimmy Lee Lindsey Jr.) was found dead in his home earlier this week, and while very few details have been released so far, he had been complaining of flu-like symptoms in the days leading up to his death. He was 29.

Jay Reatard was a fantastic songwriter in his chosen genre, squeezing maximum entertainment value out of a very straightforward, economical Rock style. More importantly, he's one of those musicians I like to call a "true believer" because there was absolutely no bullshit in his work and play. He loved and believed in the music, a love you could see, feel and hear. Plus, he played a Flying V. It's been my experience that dudes who play Flying V's are more righteous rockers than most who don't.

Now, the song I chose for this week's S4TW isn't Reatard's typically amped up Garage Rock, but it is my favorite song of his, and a great example of his songwriting chops, revealing a melodicism that can often get a bit lost at higher BPMs and volume.

Rest in peace, Jay. It was way too soon.

Hotcha! Hank