When I started researching Jonathan Richman, one of the first things that popped up was the question: “Whatever happened to Jonathan Richman?” It was followed by the answer: “Jonathan Richman is still alive, writing music and actively touring at 75 years old.” That he’s still writing music and actively touring at 75 would have gotten the point across, but the kicker is “he’s still alive."

I don’t know Jonathan Richman personally, but I know a lot of his songs, and I’ve seen him perform quite a bit, and I suspect he might think that statement is hilarious. He doesn’t own a computer or use email, so the chances of him reading anything about himself are pretty slim.

I also discovered that this wonderful, odd man who influenced the Sex Pistols, Bowie, Iggy Pop, and a bunch of other bands now lives in Chico, California, making bread ovens.

Bread ovens.

This is the same Jonathan Richman who sings about being in love with the modern world. It makes sense because he also sings about keeping his place in the old world. And that’s the beauty of Jonathan.

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