Jonathan Richman
From Natick’s Streets to Indie Beats
From Natick’s heart, Richman’s tunes take flight,
Making music day and night,
With his charm and moving sound,
He turns Natick’s streets into a playground.
(K. Artemiev)
Jonathan Richman
Jonathan Richman was born on May 16, 1951, in Boston. He grew up on Wethersfield Road, attended Natick public schools, and graduated from Natick High in 1969. Influenced by The Velvet Underground, Jonathan began writing his songs. In the early 1970s, Jonathan formed The Modern Lovers with his next-door neighbor, John Felice. After the Modern Lovers disbanded, Jonathan became a solo artist. He continues to make music today. Many of Jonathan’s songs reflect his love of Massachusetts, such as ‘Maybe a Walk Home from Natick High School’ and ‘Roadrunner,’ in which he sings about driving past the Stop & Shop on Route 9.
Maybe A Walk Home From Natick High School
The song captures a reflective and evocative moment of walking home from Natick High School! Richman’s gentle, contemplative delivery conveys a sense of nostalgia and longing. He describes the experience of strolling while looking at trees and stars, intertwined with thoughts about future encounters and the feeling of missing someone. The lyrics create a poignant atmosphere, blending personal reflection with a simple yet profound narrative. This video is the instrumental version of the song. To hear the music with lyrics, visit our Spotify playlist.
Listen Up: Jonathan Richman’s Classics and Natick’s Roadrunner Legacy!
Welcome to our playlist featuring Jonathan Richman’s most iconic songs, including his sentimental hit “Roadrunner”. This song holds a special place in Natick's history, as it was inspired by the town’s local culture and atmosphere. “Roadrunner” captures the spirit of Richman’s unique style and serves as a musical tribute to Natick, reflecting its vibrant energy and charm. This playlist celebrates Richman’s influential work and Natick's cultural significance in his music.