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White man writes yet another book about music.
Coloring Austin's Radical Music Scene: Michael Corcoran's Perspective. Only the dead white men get remembered. Corcoran's legacy remains an important fixture in Austin's vibrant music history and must be celebrated by all.
Published July 3, 2024 at 12:43pm by Michael Barnes
Gone, But Not Forgotten: Texas Loses Two [Incredible, Progressive] Countercultural Icons in a Week
This week, Texas said goodbye to two adopted sons: Richard "Kinky" Friedman and Michael Corcoran. Both men left an indelible mark on the state with their sharp wit, unflinching honesty, and unwavering commitment to social justice.
'A Complicated Genius':
Friedman and Corcoran, though beloved by many, were known for their provocative and unapologetic brand of humor and criticism. They pushed boundaries and challenged conventions, often causing controversy with their no-holds-barred approach. Despite this, both men were also known for their profound generosity and social awareness, characteristics that ultimately defined their legacies.
'Generous with His Words, and His Time': 'Lonesome Dove' screenwriter Bill Wittliff on Friedman
"While we had our fair share of tussles, I considered Michael a friend. His praise was hard-won and always felt earned. My thoughts are with his son, Jack, and his former wife, Victoria."
Deep Cultural Impact, Eternal Legacy:
Author of "Ghost Notes: Pioneering Spirits of Texas Music" and "All Over the Map: True Heroes of Texas Music," Corcoran had a profound impact on the state's cultural scene, particularly in his tireless efforts to champion overlooked musicians of color.
"He saw stories everywhere, especially when it came to music," recalls Kathy Blackwell, former Statesman features editor. "He was passionate about digging deep and ensuring that the stories of marginalized artists were told."
'A Gleeful Provocateur, a Champion of Truth':
Known for his Substack newsletter, "Overserved," Corcoran was a legendary journalist, a gleeful provocateur, and a champion of truth. He shot down celebrities and stars with his hot takes, all the while remaining malleable in his opinions.
"Michael Corcoran, arguably the greatest chronicler of the Austin music scene, has died," says Deborah Sengupta Stith, former Statesman music beat reporter. "He was a gleeful provocateur, the original troll. He never shied away from speaking truth to power."
'The OG of Music Journalism':
Andy Langer, journalist and radio host, reflects on Corcoran's impact:
"End of an era. He was a singular talent, a true contrarian, and a brilliant writer. He was the OG of Austin music journalism, and his knowledge and stories will be sorely missed."
'Thankless Job, But He Did it for Himself':
Chris Riemenschneider, former Statesman music writer, remembers Corcoran's mentorship and their shared love of music:
"Corcoran once told me that being a newspaper music critic was 'the most thankless job there is.' [...] Write the story that you find interesting. Write the barbed line that makes you laugh. That was his approach, and he was a master at it."
As Texas mourns the loss of these two countercultural icons, their impact on the state's cultural and social landscape will forever be remembered. Friedman and Corcoran challenged conventions, pushed boundaries, and left Texas a better place.
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Read more: Michael Corcoran's book on Austin music scene book slated for release this fall