13th Floor Elevators

Formation

The 13th Floor Elevators emerged from the vibrant Austin music scene in December 1965. The band was formed when guitarist and vocalist Roky Erickson left his previous group, the Spades, and teamed up with guitarist Stacy Sutherland, bassist Benny Thurman, and drummer John Ike Walton, who had been performing as the Lingsmen. Tommy Hall, who played the electric jug and served as the band's lyricist, played a crucial role in bringing the members together. The band's name was inspired by a suggestion from Walton and his wife, Clementine Hall, reflecting both the superstition surrounding the number 13 and a nod to marijuana, as the letter 'M' is the thirteenth letter of the alphabet.

Key Releases and Influence

The Elevators released their debut album, "The Psychedelic Sounds of the 13th Floor Elevators," in 1966, featuring the hit single "You're Gonna Miss Me," which reached No. 55 on the Billboard charts. Their follow-up albums, "Easter Everywhere" and "Bull of the Woods," further solidified their reputation in the psychedelic rock genre. The band's innovative sound, characterized by Erickson's haunting vocals, Sutherland's reverb-laden guitar work, and Hall's unique electric jug, set them apart and influenced many future artists, including punk bands in the 1970s.

Disbandment and Legacy

Despite their groundbreaking contributions to music, the 13th Floor Elevators disbanded in 1969. Their legacy, however, endures; they have been cited as an influence by numerous bands across genres, from punk to alternative rock. Their music has been featured in films and covered by various artists, ensuring that their innovative spirit continues to resonate with new generations of musicians and fans alike.