Jonathan Richman says his song not ‘good enough’ to be official state rock song
Jonathan Richman back in the day. (Handout)
So what does the author of the Modern Lovers classic “Roadrunner” think of the legislative effort to make it the official rock song of Massachusetts? Globe music critic James Reed tried to reach Jonathan Richman for his story about Dorchester Representative Marty Walsh ’s bill, but Richman didn’t respond before the story, which is running in Sunday’s Arts section, went to press. Friday, though, Reed received an e-mail from Richman’s assistant, Les Gripkey. “I spoke with Jonathan about your request and this was his comment,” wrote Gripkey. ‘“Thank you so much, it’s very flattering . . . but I don’t think the song is good enough to be a Massachusetts song of any kind.’” Gripkey goes on to say that Richman, who’s nothing if not quirky, might be willing to write something more on the subject, which he could send to Reed “via the (US Postal Service) or fax.”
About this blog
Mark Shanahan joined The Boston Globe in
2003, having worked previously at the Portland Press Herald, where he
covered City Hall, and the Lewiston Sun-Journal, where he was the
education reporter. A Northampton native and graduate of Bates College,
Shanahan enjoys the usual - books, music, movies, etc. - as well as the
unusual. shanahan@globe.com
Follow on Twitter: @GlobeNames, @MarkAShanahan
Meredith Goldstein has worked for the Globe since 2003, covering
everything from nightlife to New Kids. She keeps her eyes peeled for
celebrity juice, and also writes Love Letters, a Boston.com blog for
hopeful (and hopeless) romantics. Meredith chats about love problems
every Wednesday at 1 p.m. If you see Justin Timberlake or someone like
him at a local eatery, please e-mail her immediately. mgoldstein@globe.com
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