Todd Rundgren’s musical odyssey is a tapestry woven with eclecticism and an insatiable creative spirit. As a solo artist, he has graced the world with 27 albums, including his recent offering, “Space Force.” Not content with solo endeavors, Rundgren has also lent his talents to The Nazz, Utopia, and the New Cars.
His production prowess has left an equally indelible mark on the industry, with seminal albums for artists such as Badfinger, the New York Dolls, Meat Loaf, Grand Funk Railroad, XTC, and the Psychedelic Furs bearing his signature touch. However, live performances hold an equally special place in Rundgren’s artistic heart, and his current Me/We Tour is no exception.
This tour is designed to appease the most ardent fans, delving into the depths of his catalog with rarely heard treasures. Rundgren promises a musical journey that will both delight and surprise, even for those intimately familiar with his work. Songs like “Hello It’s Me,” “I Saw the Light,” and “Can We Still Be Friends” will share the stage with obscure nuggets like “Afterlife,” resurrected from the depths of his “Liars” album.
Rundgren’s artistic DNA can be traced back to his childhood in Upper Darby Township, where he immersed himself in his parents’ record collection. The vibrant colors of vinyl spun on a little RCA 45 player sparked his imagination, laying the foundation for his future multi-media explorations.
The allure of the guitar gripped Rundgren after hearing “Walk, Don’t Run” by The Ventures, and soon he was strumming away on his own instrument. His musical journey took him from Money to Woody’s Truck Stop to The Nazz, where he found his voice as a songwriter and producer.
A self-taught engineer, Rundgren’s first production experience with The Nazz’s debut album marked the beginning of a storied career behind the console. However, it was his work with XTC that truly tested his interpersonal skills, as he realized the delicate balance between technical proficiency and understanding the artist’s vision.
Despite his vast accomplishments, Rundgren remains grounded and driven by his own artistic muse. He believes that true success lies not in external validation but in staying true to one’s path, regardless of the current trends. With no signs of slowing down at 75, Rundgren’s unwavering commitment to his art ensures that his musical legacy will continue to inspire and captivate generations to come.
