Ivan Julian facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Ivan Julian
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Julian (second from left) as part of Richard Hell and the Voidoids in 1977
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| Born | June 26, 1955 Washington, D.C. [1] |
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| Associated acts | The Voidoids, Lovelies |
Ivan Julian (born June 26, 1955) is a talented guitarist, singer, and songwriter. He was a founding member of two important bands: Richard Hell and the Voidoids and Lovelies. Ivan has also played music with many other famous artists and groups. These include The Isley Brothers, The Clash, Matthew Sweet, and Shriekback.
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Ivan Julian's Musical Journey
Early Life and Music
Ivan Julian was born in Washington, D.C., in 1955. His father was in the Navy, so Ivan moved around a lot. He lived in places like Haiti and Cuba before his family settled down.
When he was young, Ivan loved to read and write. He was inspired by seeing the famous guitarist Jimi Hendrix play. This made him want to express himself through music.
Ivan started singing in a Led Zeppelin cover band at age 13. He picked up the guitar at 14. Before that, he also learned to play the bassoon and saxophone. He even studied music theory in a college program while still in high school.
At 17, Ivan toured internationally with the band The Foundations. They were known for hit songs like "Build Me Up Buttercup."
Joining The Voidoids
In 1976, Ivan Julian moved to New York City. There, he helped start the influential punk and new wave band Richard Hell and the Voidoids.
The band quickly recorded an EP (a short album) that was highly praised. Soon after, they signed with Sire/Warner Brothers records. They then released their album, Blank Generation.
This album became very important for many guitar players. Ivan co-wrote two songs on the album, "Liars Beware" and "Betrayal Takes Two." Critics loved the album, especially the guitar playing. Today, Blank Generation is still seen as a classic album from that time.
Forming The Outsets
After The Voidoids broke up in 1980, Ivan Julian formed his own band called The Outsets. He found talented musicians to join him. They included Bob Albertson on bass and Simon Chardiet on guitar.
The Outsets began playing live shows at famous New York clubs. These included CBGB's and Max's Kansas City. They also played at newer venues like the Mudd Club.
The band signed with Contender Records and released their first single. It featured the songs "I'm Searchin' For You" and "Fever." Some copies of the single have a rare misprint, making them collector's items.
The Outsets also recorded songs for The Punk/Funk Voodoo Collection. These recordings were made in the studio of Giorgio Gomelsky. He was a producer for bands like the Yardbirds and the Rolling Stones. He encouraged Ivan to explore new sounds, including music inspired by Fela Kuti.
Later, Garland Jeffreys produced The Outsets' EP called "The Ice Man." Ivan also recorded with other musicians during this time.
Lovelies and Other Projects
In 1988, Ivan Julian started a group called Lovelies. His wife at the time, Cynthia Sley, was the vocalist. They released one album called Mad Orphan. This album had a unique post-punk sound.
Ivan also worked with many other well-known bands. When The Clash were recording their album Sandinista!, Ivan joined them in the studio. He helped them create their song "The Call Up".
He also toured North America and Europe with the English band Shriekback. Ivan's guitar style is unique, influenced by jazz legends like Charlie Parker. He once said, "There is a piece of their soul in every note they play."
During the 1990s, Ivan Julian toured and recorded with Matthew Sweet. He earned three Gold Record Awards for his work.
Today, Ivan continues to write and produce music. He works at his own recording studio, NY HED. He has produced albums for bands like The Fleshtones.
Health and Recovery
In 2015, Ivan Julian was diagnosed with cancer. Many musicians came together to help him. They held a benefit concert in New York City. Famous artists like Debbie Harry and Matthew Sweet performed.
Ivan was declared cancer-free in 2016. He celebrated by playing a comeback show in Brooklyn. Unfortunately, in March 2020, it was announced that his cancer had returned. His friends and fans started a fundraiser to help with his medical bills.
