Who is Marvin Gardens?
Unraveling the Enigma of Marvin Gardens: A Tale of Music, Myth, and Mystery
#marvingardensmonday
The enigmatic figure of Marvin Gardens has long intrigued music aficionados and the casual fan yet his existence remains shrouded in ambiguity. Emerging into public consciousness on the album cover of Steve Goodman's "Somebody Else's Troubles," alongside John Prine, Marvin Gardens is a name that sparks curiosity and debate. Some argue that his sole evidence of existence lies in the liner notes of Goodman's album, where only Marvin Gardens is listed.
The Birth of Marvin Gardens
In 1973, Marvin Gardens made his musical debut with the release of "Why Don't We Get Drunk and Screw," under the pseudonym Marvin Gardens. The song, a parody of standard country music love songs, was initially conceived as a satire by Jimmy Buffett. Buffett, reminiscing on the inspiration behind the song, recalled a late-night encounter in an Atlanta diner, where he observed a blurry businessman attempting to pick up a prostitute. This encounter served as the impetus for the tongue-in-cheek lyrics of "Why Don't We Get Drunk and Screw," a song that unexpectedly stirred controversy and garnered significant attention.
Marvin Gardens continued to make sporadic appearances in Buffett's musical journey. He was listed on the credits of the 1973 album "A White Sport Coat and a Pink Crustacean," playing beer cans and maracas. Throughout the mid-1970s, Marvin's presence loomed large, with references to his perspective on religion and life experiences cropping up in various contexts, adding layers to his mystique.
The Legend Grows
As Marvin Gardens' legend grew, so did the anecdotes surrounding his escapades. From allegedly gifting a casino win to fund a rendezvous with a lady of the night to his purported farewell in Buffett's "Havana Daydreamin'" album, the tales of Marvin's exploits became intertwined with the fabric of musical folklore.
However, perhaps the most intriguing aspect of Marvin Gardens' saga is the persistent ambiguity surrounding his existence. Despite occasional mentions in bootleg shows and rumors of legal disputes over song credits, concrete evidence of Marvin Gardens' tangible presence remains elusive.
In Search of Marvin Gardens
The quest to unravel the mystery of Marvin Gardens led one individual on a journey through the annals of musical history, culminating in unexpected revelations. While searching for Marvin Gardens, this intrepid explorer stumbled upon the tale of Eddie Balchowsky, an unsung hero of the Chicago folk scene. Eddie's story, intertwined with that of Marvin Gardens, offered a glimpse into the hidden corners of musical history, where the lives of ordinary individuals intersected with the realm of legends.
The End of an Era
As the years passed, Marvin Gardens slipped into obscurity, his legacy preserved in the annals of musical lore. The news of his passing in 1989 marked the end of an era, leaving behind a legacy of irreverence and intrigue. Yet, even in death, Marvin Gardens remained an enigmatic figure, his true essence obscured by layers of myth and speculation.
Obituary (some excepts taken from Church of Buffet Orthodox - thank you)
From the Sarasota Herald-Tribune on 1 April, 1989
Legendary Entertainer Marvin Gardens Dead at 42
Marvin Gardens, the wry and witty singer/songwriter noted for his risqué lyrics and life on "the edge" died of a massive coronary infarction today at the Sarasota Rock 'n' Roll Rest Home, according to a statement released by the Sarasota County Coroner's Office and officials at the home. He was 42.
Mr. Gardens, best known for the song "Why Don't We Get Drunk," which was popularized by singer Jimmy Buffett in the early '70s, was an early influence in the "gonzo" style of music that included Jerry Jeff Walker, the late Steve Goodman and Mr. Buffett. "Gonzo," a term borrowed from author Hunter S. Thompson, describes the crazy, almost insane, lyrics and tunes of some late '60s and early '70s post-folk melodies. Mr. Gardens had been in the home permanently since a 1981 stroke - which ironically occurred on the same day that his old musical partner, Buffett, recorded his 'Somewhere Over China' LP. Reports indicated that Mr. Gardens was listening to a promotional copy of Mr. Buffett's 'Off to See the Lizard' release when he declared, "Oh no - this can't be happening!" He collapsed and was pronounced dead by the resident physician at the home. Mr. Gardens, the scion of a prominent Atlantic City, N.J. family, had not performed in public in some time. He is credited on several of Mr. Buffett's albums as well as pictured on the cover of Mr. Goodman's 'Someone Else's Troubles" LP. His early collaborations with Mr. Buffett were in New Orleans in the 1960s. While the two had a falling out over Buffett's decision to drop a controversial song Garden's had reportedly written for his 'Havana Daydreamin' LP, the two had partially reconciled although there were no plans to reinstate Gardens in the Coral Reefers for the upcoming tour or any other.
Reached for comment in Los Angeles, Mr. Buffett stated that, "Some people don't even know how close Marvin and I used to be. I'll miss him. We were so very close." He added, "It sort of became an on-running joke. 'Fingers' [Taylor - Buffett's harmonica man] used to call him my alter-ego. It got so bad that some people even wondered if there was actually two people or just one of us. Kind of like Batman and Bruce Wayne. That sort of thing." Recalling their early adventures, Buffett recounts, "I'd often sign in to hotels under Marv's name. Marvin never could figure out why Holiday Inn's lawyers kept sending him all those certified letters." Mr. Gardens' remains will be cremated and spread over The Chart Room Bar where his closest friends will do lines of his remains. This is invitation only. He has no known survivors. Some believe this is just a cover up and Marvin is in a retirement home down South with an IV of Gatorade in his arm and mixing Purple Passions.
— Written by: The Songwriters Joint —