Remastered Daniel Johnston 20th Century Works to Be Released

A comprehensive restoration project for the late indie-rock singer-songwriter Daniel Johnston has been unveiled, aiming to remaster his entire discography from the 20th century. The initiative, 'Daniel Johnston In The 20th Century', begins with the reissue of his influential debut cassette 'Songs Of Pain', originally released in 1981. This tape marked the start of Johnston's unique musical journey, capturing his heartfelt compositions and setting the foundation for his legacy.

Early Works in High-Resolution Audio

For the first time ever, fans will have access to high-quality 24-bit lossless audio versions of Johnston's first 14 releases. The remastering process has been handled by Kramer, the founder of Shimmy-Disc and a long-term collaborator with Johnston. This phase includes material spanning from 1980 to 1998, providing a clear and enhanced listening experience of these seminal indie rock recordings.

Supporting Johnston's Legacy

The remastered albums have been made available for download on a pay-what-you-want basis, with all profits going directly to the Daniel Johnston Estate. The estate primarily focuses on preserving and promoting his musical and artistic contributions for future generations to appreciate. This project represents just the beginning, with an intent to eventually compile a complete and accessible archive of Johnston's work.

Future Plans and Archival Discoveries

The second phase, anticipated for 2025, will include alternate takes, previously unreleased recordings, interviews, and live performances. This ambitious effort showcases the breadth of Johnston's creative output, offering fans a deeper dive into his artistry. In addition, the coming year is expected to see further monthly releases under 'Daniel Johnston in the 21st Century', with a subscription service for dedicated enthusiasts.

A Legacy of Honest Expression

Daniel Johnston's emergence in the 80s was marked by his raw and sincere music, which resonated with listeners due to its intimate portrayal of his mental health challenges and yearning for love. His influence extended to many, with figures like Kurt Cobain advocating for his music and other artists covering his songs. His impact continues through various mediums, including a mental health-focused podcast named after his album 'Hi, How Are You?', produced by a non-profit founded in his memory.

discography, remaster, legacy