Author Archives: Aaron Brophy

Jason Molina

Two years ago Jason Molina, the leader of Magnolia Electric Co./Songs: Ohia and titular inspiration for this site, disappeared.

Considering Molina’s prolific recording history and road warrior touring ethic, the totality of his vanishing act had a profoundly disturbing effect on his fans. In the Magnolia Electric Co bulletin board there were vague allusions to some serious health issues, but mostly there was uncomfortable silence punctuated by the occasional “Where’s Jason?”

Now we know why. Molina has surfaced. Sort of. And the reason for his time away has become clear, according to a statement from the Molina family:

Many of you have inquired as to Jason’s whereabouts and well-being since he canceled his tours with Will Johnson in 2009.  Over the last two years Jason has been in and out of rehab facilities and hospitals in England, Chicago, Indianapolis, and New Orleans.  It has been a very trying time for Jason, his friends, and his family.  Although no one can be sure what the future holds, we feel very encouraged by the recent steps Jason has taken on the road towards becoming healthy and productive once again.  Unfortunately, because he has no medical insurance, he has accrued substantial medical bills.  We are asking all friends of Jason’s music to come together with a showing of financial support for him.  Please consider a contribution to his medical fund.  Feel free to forward this to any and all appropriate parties.  We are hoping to raise whatever funds we possibly can for Jason.  He is currently working on a farm in West Virginia raising goats and chickens for the next year or so, and is looking forward to making great music again.  Please also show your support and well wishes by sending letters and postcards to:

Jason Molina
P.O. Box 423
Beaver, WV 25813

If you do not wish to use paypal, please make donations out to Ashley Lawson at the same address.

With our sincere thanks, The Molina Family

It’s not like Molina fans couldn’t see the cry for help barely sublimated in his music — “The Dark Don’t Hide It” from What Comes After The Blues, the line “while you’ve been busy cryin’ about my past mistakes, I’ve been busy trying to make a change…” from the song “I’ve Been Riding With The Ghost,” the confessional descent into depression that is the whole Didn’t It Rain album.

Now, I may be destitute and marginally employed myself, but I think it’s only fair that I help how I can considering how much Molina’s music has given me over the years. If you’re a Molina fan, consider doing so, too.