Album Information:
Album ID: 10370
About Todd Rundgren:
Todd Rundgren is a highly accomplished American musician, songwriter, multi-instrumentalist, and producer. He was born on June 22, 1948, in Upper Darby, Pennsylvania, and grew up with a passion for music at an early age. His father was a trumpeter, and his mother was a singer in a folk group.
Rundgren began his musical career as a teenager, playing in local bands in Philadelphia. He moved to New York to pursue his music career and soon found success as a producer and songwriter. Rundgren's first band, Nazz, released their self-titled debut album in 1968, which included the hit single 'Open My Eyes.' However, after three albums, Rundgren left Nazz to pursue a solo career.
In 1970, Rundgren released his first solo album, 'Runt.' The album was a critical success and featured the hit single 'We Gotta Get You a Woman.' Over the years, Rundgren experimented with different musical styles, incorporating elements of rock, pop, R&B, and electronica into his music. He is particularly known for his innovative use of studio experimentation and his pioneering work in the use of synthesizers and digital recording technologies.
Throughout his career, Rundgren has released over 25 studio albums, as well as numerous live albums and collaborations. Some of his most successful albums include 'A Wizard, A True Star' (1973), 'Something/Anything?' (1972), and 'Todd' (1974). His hit singles include 'Hello, It's Me,' 'Can We Still Be Friends,' and 'Bang the Drum All Day.'
In addition to his successful solo career, Rundgren has also produced albums for numerous other artists, including the New York Dolls, Meat Loaf, Patti Smith, and Cheap Trick. He has also collaborated with numerous legendary musicians, including Ringo Starr, Steely Dan, Hall & Oates, and the Cars.
Rundgren has received critical acclaim for his contributions to the music industry, including being inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2021. He remains an active musician and continues to tour and release new music to this day.
About the album A Wizard, A True Star:
A Wizard, A True Star is a musical masterpiece by Todd Rundgren, released in 1973. This album is considered one of the most ambitious and experimental works of the 70s.
The album is a kaleidoscope of musical styles, ranging from pop to rock, soul to funk, and even classical and avant-garde elements. This diversity is evident in the opening track, 'International Feel,' which starts with a spaced-out electronic sound before transitioning into a powerful rock anthem.
The album incorporates a lot of electronic and synthesized sounds, which makes it sound like it was ahead of its time. This is apparent in songs like 'Zen Archer,' 'Flamingo,' and 'Just Another Onionhead/Dada Dali,' where Rundgren uses prominent keyboard and synthesizer sounds to create a psychedelic atmosphere.
The album is also known for its innovative use of studio effects and editing techniques. This can be seen in songs like 'You Need Your Head' and 'Never Never Land,' where Rundgren cuts between different musical passages to create a disjointed, dreamlike effect.
One of the standout tracks on the album is 'When the Shit Hits the Fan/Sunset Boulevard,' which incorporates a variety of musical styles, including hard rock, funk, and even spoken word poetry. This song showcases Rundgren's versatility as a songwriter and his willingness to experiment with different musical genres.
Overall, A Wizard, A True Star is an album that pushes the boundaries of what was possible in the realm of popular music in the 70s. It's a bold and innovative work that stands the test of time and continues to inspire new generations of musicians.
Members:
As an AI language model, I can provide you information about Todd Rundgren, but biographies of his key members are not available. Todd Rundgren is an American artist, multi-instrumentalist, and record producer who has been active in the music industry since the late 1960s. He has worked with a variety of musicians and bands over the years, including The Nazz, Utopia, and Meat Loaf. Some key members who have collaborated with him include:
1. John Siegler - a multi-instrumentalist who played bass guitar, cello, and guitar in Todd Rundgren's Utopia from 1976 to 1985.
2. Kasim Sulton - a bassist and vocalist who has played with Todd Rundgren on and off since the early 1970s. He was also a member of Utopia, and has worked with Meat Loaf and Joan Jett.
3. Roger Powell - a keyboardist and synthesizer player who was a member of Utopia from 1976 to 1986. He also played on Todd Rundgren's solo albums and other projects.
4. Willie Wilcox - a drummer who was a member of Utopia from 1974 to 1986. He has also worked with artists such as David Bowie and Mick Jagger.
These are just a few of the many talented musicians who have collaborated with Todd Rundgren over the years. Each member has made significant contributions to his music and career.
Track List for A Wizard, A True Star:
Sure, here are all the tracks in the album 'A Wizard, A True Star' by Todd Rundgren in order along with the playtime and a brief description of each track:
1. International Feel (2:50) - This track sets the tone for the album with its layered vocals, catchy melodies, and eclectic sound.
2. Never Never Land (1:34) - A short instrumental track with dreamy soundscapes and electronic effects.
3. Tic Tic Tic It Wears Off (1:15) - Another short instrumental track featuring electronic beats and sounds.
4. You Need Your Head (1:01) - A brief yet funky track with a groovy bassline and playful lyrics.
5. Rock and Roll Pussy (1:08) - This track builds on the funky groove of the previous track with guitar riffs and lively vocals.
6. Dogfight Giggle (1:06) - An instrumental interlude featuring playful electronic sounds.
7. You Don't Have to Camp Around (1:03) - A brief yet catchy track with hummable melodies and quirky lyrics.
8. Flamingo (2:33) - This track has a softer, more contemplative sound with acoustic guitars, gentle vocals, and ethereal effects.
9. Zen Archer (5:38) - A longer and more complex track with spirited guitar solos, soaring vocals, and varied rhythms.
10. Just Another Onionhead/Dada Dali (2:27) - A medley of two tracks featuring a combination of electronic and acoustic sounds, experimental vocal effects, and playful lyrics.
11. When the Shit Hits the Fan/Sunset Blvd. (4:03) - Another medley of two tracks with a more rock-oriented sound, driving rhythms, and poetic lyrics.
12. Le Feel Internacionale (3:24) - A lively instrumental track with a wide range of electronic sounds and dynamic rhythms.
13. Sometimes I Don't Know What to Feel (4:18) - A reflective track with piano and synth melodies, introspective lyrics, and emotional vocals.
14. Does Anybody Love You? (1:37) - A short yet sweet ballad with tender vocals and intimate lyrics.
15. Medley: I'm So Proud/Ooh Baby Baby/La La Means I Love You/Cool Jerk (10:57) - A long medley of cover songs featuring rich vocal harmonies, energetic instrumentals, and classic soul and R&B tunes.
16. Hungry for Love (2:18) - The final track on the album is a short yet upbeat track with lively brass and playful lyrics.
Overall, 'A Wizard, A True Star' is a highly experimental and eclectic album with a wide range of musical styles and influences. Each track showcases Rundgren's skill as a songwriter and producer, as well as his unique vision for blending and pushing musical boundaries.
Discography for Todd Rundgren:
Sure! Here's a complete discography for Todd Rundgren including albums, singles, and other releases in chronological order:
Albums:
1. Runt (1970)
2. Runt. The Ballad of Todd Rundgren (1971)
3. Something/Anything? (1972)
4. A Wizard, A True Star (1973)
5. Todd (1974)
6. Initiation (1975)
7. Faithful (1976)
8. Hermit of Mink Hollow (1978)
9. Back to the Bars (1978 - live album)
10. Healing (1981)
11. The Ever Popular Tortured Artist Effect (1982)
12. A Cappella (1985)
13. Nearly Human (1989)
14. 2nd Wind (1991)
15. No World Order (1993)
16. With a Twist (1997)
17. One Long Year (2000)
18. Liars (2004)
19. Arena (2008)
20. Johnson (2010)
21. Todd Rundgren's Johnson Live (2011)
22. State (2013)
23. Global (2015)
24. White Knight (2017)
25. Individualist (2018)
26. Space Force (2020)
Singles:
1. 'We Gotta Get You a Woman' (1970)
2. 'Be Nice to Me' (1971)
3. 'I Saw the Light' (1972)
4. 'Hello It’s Me' (1973)
5. 'A Dream Goes On Forever' (1974)
6. 'Real Man' (1975)
7. 'Love in Action' (1976)
8. 'Can We Still Be Friends' (1978)
9. 'All the Children Sing' (1980)
10. 'Time Heals' (1981)
11. 'Bang the Drum All Day' (1982)
12. 'Drive' (1984)
13. 'Something to Fall Back On' (1985)
14. 'Change Myself' (1991)
15. 'The Individualist' (1993)
16. 'Yer Fast (And I Like It)' (1994)
17. 'Parallel Lines' (1997)
18. 'Tin Foil Hat' (2017)
Other releases:
1. Runt. Radio (1972)
2. Faithful (1993 - re-recorded version of his 1976 album)
3. Todd Rundgren's Johnson: Live from Daryl's House (2011 - live recording of Rundgren's Johnson album)