“Alex Chilton”, The Replacements

This way: Alex Chilton

This song is a tribute to former Box Tops/Big Star member Alex Chilton, credited by many as being the founder of Power Pop. He has produced several songs for The Replacements. The song is not only a tribute, but a reminder of Alex’s relative obscurity, as emphasized in the ironically hyperbolic chorus: “And children by the million sing for Alex Chilton/When he comes ‘round/They sing, “ I’m in love/What’s that song?/Yeah, I'm in love, with that”

The Replacements were an American rock band formed in Minneapolis, Minnesota in 1979. Initially a punk rock band, they are considered one of the pioneers of alternative rock. The band was composed of the guitarist and vocalist Paul Westerberg, guitarist Bob Stinson, bass guitarist Tommy Stinson and drummer Chris Mars for most of its career. The group disbanded in 1991, with the members eventually pursuing various projects. The band is referred to by their nickname “ he ’Mats” by fans, which originated as a truncation of “The Placemats,” a mispronunciation of their name. Tommy was 14 when the band started. 

[Spotify] Alex Chilton