Remembering Elliot Smith: Download a solo show recorded at the Pontiac Grille in April, 1998

Elliott Smith would have been 44 years old today, had he not passed away October 21, 2003. Born in Omaha, Nebraska, the singer-songwriter spent a significant portion of his life in Portand, Oregon. After performing in the rock band Heatmiser, Smith pursued a solo career and left behind a gorgeous collection of works on various labels including Cavity Search, Kill Rock Stars and Dreamworks Records. In August 1998, Smith released XO, his major label debut. Five months prior to that he did a solo tour with a stop at the Pontiac Grille (now the Legendary Dobbs) on April 18.

An excellent sound quality copy of the show is available to download at ElliottSmithBootlegs.com. During the quiet and intimate performance he covered “Thirteen” by Big Star and “Jealous Guy” by John Lennon, as well as material from Either/Or and his self-titled 1995 release. On Wednesday, August 21, World Cafe Live and Tri-State Indie are joining together for a Tribute To Elliott Smith with proceeds going benefiting Horizon House in West Philadelphia.

Download Elliott Smith’s April, 1998 Pontiac Grille concert here, and watch a video of him performing “Cupid’s Trick” at The Trocadero in 2000 below.