220. The 13th Floor Elevators

Often the word “Psychedelic” is used when describing influences and styles in Rock and Roll music. One of the bands who helped to popularize the Psychedelic style of the music, the 13th Floor Elevators is usually forgotten in the conversation; though not by the bands that they influenced.

Originally a Garage band, the 13th Floor Elevators began experimenting (in more ways than just music) with Psychedelic music in their home state of Texas showing that the sound was not confined to San Francisco and London. Merging this new style with a Tex Mex flavor, the Elevators influenced other Garage Bands, Psychedelic Bands and blistering Blues Bands that followed. Their run was brief, and though they never really reached national prominence their legacy as the first real Acid based band made them far more influential than a brief glance would show.

www.13thfloorelevators.com

Should The 13th Floor Elevators be in the Hall of Fame?

Definitely put them in! - 73.3%

Maybe, but others deserve it first. - 22.2%

Probably not, but it wouldn't be the end of the world. - 2.2%

No opinion. - 0%

No way! - 2.2%

The Bullet Points

Eligible Since: Tuesday, 01 January 1991
Country of Origin: U.S.A. (Austin, TX)
Why they will get in: They have a legacy that continues to grow and even current bands have cited them as an influence.
Why they won't get in: They have no major hits and they have a perceived negative influence in some circles.
Essential Albums: The Psychedelic Sounds of the 13th Floor Elevators (1966)
Easter Everywhere (1967)
Our Five Favorite Songs as Chosen by Each Member of the NIHOF Committee: You’re Gonna Miss Me (From The Psychedelic Sounds of the 13th Floor Elevators, 1966)
Roller Coaster (From The Psychedelic Sounds of the 13th Floor Elevators, 1966)
Reverbation (From The Psychedelic Sounds of the 13th Floor Elevators, 1966)
Levitation (From Easter Everywhere, 1967)
Slip Inside This House (From Easter Everywhere, 1967)