The powerful, mysterious, delicate music of English songwriter Nick Drake was underappreciated during his brief lifetime. But since Drake's death at age 26 in 1974, his recordings have gradually reached more and more listeners. Drake is now a strong influence on contemporary songwriters, revered as much for his distinctive vocal and guitar style as for his beautiful, melancholy songs.
It's not hard to hear that Drake's timeless songs were somewhat influenced by the British folk scene of his day, but it hasn't been clear just from where he evolved his distinctive musical style. Now a brand new album gives host/producer David Garland the opportunity to show that the songwriter who had the greatest influence on Nick Drake was his mother, Molly Drake.
While Molly Drake raised her two kids Nick and actress Gabrielle Drake during the 1950s, this sociable, beautiful, happily married woman wrote introspective poetry and delicate, melancholy songs, which she sang, accompanying herself on piano. Though she apparently had no ambition to publish or promote her songs, her husband recorded them on a home tape recorder for the family's enjoyment. Sensitive and articulate, Molly Drake's songs are, as Nick Drake's original producer Joe Boyd recently observed, the "missing link" in understanding Nick's music.
David Garland presents selections from "Molly Drake," the new limited edition album of those old home recordings, alongside songs from Nick Drake's three albums, giving listeners the chance to hear the many connections between mother and son. Both were sensitive, talented, insightful people who wrote subtly devastating songs.
Comments [12]
I was wondering the same thing R Littrell from Boise, I recall loving the original broadcast, wanted to hear it again...
Is there any way to access the audio for this broadcast? There doesn't seem to be a link to the audio.
It was delightful to hear more about the enchantig musical world of Nick and Molly Drake! Thank you for this mesmerizing hour!
heartbreak never sounded so lovely.
thanks for the illumination of this rich tradition.
Long time fan of Nick Drake, and I've heard a lofi recording of him with his sister, but I never knew about his mother. Simply amazing. I was personally blown away by "I remember." You just don't hear such deep, tight, and artfully written lyrics anymore. A true poet. Thank you so much for this insight into one of my favorite artists.
David, this is the most illuminating program you've done in months or maybe even a year or more (since the Van Dyke Parks).
I remember reading a thing or two about Nick Drake in Rolling Stone in the 70's but I paid no attention other than to think he had the perfect English pop star name. My mistake.
Your presentation tonight was a revelation! I've tonight ordered his discography via Amazon.
"Spinning On Air" is on a roll. Thanks!
what a revelation! thank you for this show--it was great
This was a delightful hour - thank you, Mr. Garland, for the introduction. I also liked the way you brought in a song by Noel Coward - somehow there was a synergy.
Mr. Garland, thank you for introducing us to Molly and Nick Drake. I especially appreciated the haunting nature of Nick,s music and thread you drew between Noel C. , Molly and Nick.
I never write in, but this was astonishingly good radio! Opened my ears.
Thanks.
Tonight's show was a pleasant surprise on a cool, windy, rainy, certainly Nick Drake kind of evening. Thank you so much for shedding on light Nick's influences and introducing me to the beautiful, soulful music of his mother.
I have this album. It's spectacular. I can't describe why I like Molly's words and music so much, so I will not try. I recommend this album for people interested in the 'entire' Nick Drake musical trail.
Leave a Comment
Register for your own account so you can vote on comments, save your favorites, and more. Learn more.
Please stay on topic, be civil, and be brief.
Email addresses are never displayed, but they are required to confirm your comments. Names are displayed with all comments. We reserve the right to edit any comments posted on this site. Please read the Comment Guidelines before posting. By leaving a comment, you agree to New York Public Radio's Privacy Policy and Terms Of Use.