RIP Mojo Nixon Aug 2, 1957 – Feb 7, 2024
Mojo Nixon was a renowned underground American musician who left an indelible mark on the fringes of the underbelly of American music. Known for his unique blend of rockabilly and punk rock, he was a true pioneer of psychobilly music.
Nixon’s most iconic song, “Elvis Is Everywhere,” catapulted him to fame and became a cultural phenomenon in the 1980s. The song’s infectious energy and satirical lyrics made it a favorite among music lovers and a staple for the MTV generation.
Tragically, Mojo Nixon passed away on February 7, 2024, at the age of 66. He suffered a cardiac event while aboard the Outlaw Country Cruise, which was docked in San Juan, Puerto Rico at the time. Nixon was not only attending the cruise as a performer and host but also sharing his immense talent with fans.
Oddly enough, just three days later, James Van Eaton, whom Nixon portrayed in the Jerry Lee Lewis biopic Great Balls Of Fire!, also passed away.
Nixon’s many notable achievements include his rather unconventional take on Christmas music with his 1992 album Horny Holidays as well as his many collaborations with Skid Roper, most notably their “Root Hog Or Die” record from 1989.
The album showcased the duo’s exceptional talent and was enthusiastically received by many journalists at the time. Inspired by Davy Crockett’s autobiography, Mojo Nixon and Skid Roper adopted the phrase “root hog or die” as a testament to their unwavering dedication to the craft.
“Root Hog or Die” was supported by an extensive North American tour, where Nixon and Roper captivated audiences with their electrifying performances. The album’s success was evident, as it sold over 50,000 copies within the first six months of its release, helping break Mojo Nixon into the mainstream culture.
One of the standout tracks from the album, “Debbie Gibson Is Pregnant With My Two-Headed Love Child,” showcased Nixon’s irreverent and humorous songwriting style. However, MTV controversially refused to air the accompanying video, which starred the talented Winona Ryder as Gibson. Despite this setback, the song remains a fan favorite and a testament to Nixon’s ability to push boundaries and challenge societal norms.
Mojo Nixon’s legacy will forever be remembered in the annals of music history. His contributions to the psychobilly genre and his unapologetic approach to music continue to inspire artists and fans around the world. Although his physical presence may be gone, his music and spirit will live on, reminding us that true legends never truly die. Rest in peace Mojo.