Daniel Johnston

American singer-songwriter and visual artist known for lo-fi homemade recordings, childlike drawings and direct, emotionally candid songs. Regarded as an influential outsider/lo-fi figure whose work inspired many indie artists and tribute projects.

Daniel Johnston (1961–2019) was an American musician and artist associated with the Austin scene and known for the album/illustration Hi, How Are You. His lo-fi tapes and candid songwriting influenced numerous artists; tributes and covers by others helped broaden his audience. He struggled with mental illness throughout his life.

Reviews emphasize Daniel Johnston's raw, lo-fi songwriting, naive/angelic vocal delivery and heartfelt melodies. His work is celebrated for its fragile directness and emotional immediacy. Tribute projects and covers by well-known artists underline his influence.

For:Fans of lo-fi, outsider music, intimate singer-songwriters and listeners who prefer unvarnished, emotional recordings.