Missed Masterpieces: Janis Joplin

by Lane Heaps

Posted // 2011-07-12 - Look, I’m about to make a confession I never thought I would, publicly, in my life. But I’ve always believed writing ain’t worth a pinch of shit if it’s not honest. Just ask my parents, who have been horrified since this blog started, because they’ve been learning I wasn’t the good little boy they thought I was. I got away with so much, which tickles the hell outta me to this day!

But for some odd reason, my heart aches when I get in the presence of a certain type of woman. Allow me to describe her: She’s homely, maybe even ugly, and maybe overweight and not a genius, and things aren’t working out, but she never gives up and always gives it her all.

To me, Janis Joplin was this kind of woman, so anytime I play her music I almost get weepy. It also creeps me out a little bit that she, Jimi Hendrix, and Jim Morrison all died when they were 27 years old. Janis was a sad, tortured, but extremely talented woman who died way before her time.

Her Masterpiece is Pearl (her nickname), of course. And she could sing anything: country like Kris Kristofferson’s “Me and Bobby McGee,” yuk songs like “Mercedes Benz,” and, of course, THE BLUES better than any woman except Billie Holiday.

Currently 3.5/5 Stars.
1
2
3
4
5

REPLY TO THIS COMMENT

Terri O

Posted // July 13,2011 at 15:48 Wow, interesting to hear your perception of individuals. I thought Janis was an amazing talent and never thought of her appearance as a weakness, although her drug use was. I saw a performance by Ellis Hall this past weekend, an incredibly talented musician. He may be a bit overweight and blind, but he moves people with his music and personality. He certainly doesn't stir pity from anyone. I guess it depends on how you value a persons talent, beauty, contribution to society, and personality.

Related content

Missed Masterpieces: Janis Joplin