INDIE legend and musical ringmaster Jerry Fish has released his latest single ‘Don’t Let The Sun Go Down On Your Grievances’, a joyous cover of a Daniel Johnston song in collaboration with singer MayKay (Fight Like Apes).
The track is from an album of Johnston covers, Dreaming of Daniel, just released
For years, Fish has been performing Johnston’s poignant track ‘The Story of an Artist.’
When Johnston passed in 2019, Fish released his version of “True Love Will Find You In The End,” catching the attention of Johnston’s manager, Tom Gimbel.
This led to Fish being invited to launch the Dublin chapter of “Hi, How Are You Day” on January 22, 2020—Johnston’s birthday, celebrated globally as a day for open conversations around mental health and well-being. Since then, Fish has co-hosted the event annually in Dublin with musician MayKay and pianist Cian Boylan.
Fish describes Dreaming of Daniel as “a labour of love, five years in the making,” and his first vinyl release in thirty-four years. “I am very proud of it,” he says. “It’s a record full of amazingly talented musicians—a fourteen-piece orchestra, a three-piece brass section, and some of the best vocal talent in Ireland.
“Not only is Daniel’s lyrical wit and honesty an inspiration to me and artists worldwide, but performing his songs live is incredibly fun. Dreaming of Daniel captures that joy.”
One track, “Don’t Let the Sun Go Down on Your Grievances,” encapsulates Johnston’s message of self-compassion with lyrics urging listeners to “do yourself a favour, become your own saviour.”
Featuring vocals from Fish and MayKay alongside vibrant brass and a full band, the song is a tribute to Johnston’s spirit.
Originally part of Johnston’s 1983 cassette album, the song now receives a fresh rendition through Fish’s heartfelt performance.
Fans of Fish and Johnston alike can look forward to “Hi, How Are You Day” at The Grand Social, where the event will offer a musical reprieve from January’s chill and celebrate Johnston’s enduring influence.on January 26.
See Jerry Fish live at Dolans on Friday January 31.
