Folk artist Daniel Johnston is turning 50-years-old on Saturday, January 22, and his closest friends have set up a hotline for fans to leave messages for Daniel in the days surrounding his special day. Owning half a century is a big deal, and sending a message displaying your admiration for a prolific musician would be a much better gift than the cliche black roses and gag Coke-bottle glasses. Callers are suggested to "tell a story, sing Daniel a song, cover one of his songs, or anything else that lets Daniel, and his fans, know how much he means to you and to the world of music. Throw on a party hat if you got one, and leave any message you want. Any length you want. Anything goes." Dial (936) 463-4688 to hear a message from Daniel, then leave your own.
So yes, fans will hear your messages too, because on Saturday, 8 p.m. CT, Daniel's radio show will play selected messages along with music and stories told by Daniel himself.
Chances are he will also tell you about his latest venture: "Daniel Johnston's Infinite Comic Book of Musical Greatness." It will be funded by donations on kickstarter.com for a limited pressing, then will be hosted online with interactive elements and song accompaniments. No concrete news on when the donation page will go up, but it's bound to be soon.
Daniel had a birthday party in Houston on January 14 where some footage was captured of his performances and the crowd singing "Happy Birthday" to the old man. Check out some of the videos below:
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