Written by Samantha Lozano

The Los Angeles native Bek David Campbell, a.k.a Beck, found his place in the music industry as an alternative singer with skateboard hip-hop and Latin influence. His 1994 song “Loser” on his “Mellow Gold” album caused his career to skyrocket, and he continued to put out iconic albums such as “Odelay,” “Midnight Vultures,” and “Guero.” Beck, who was raised by music conductor David Campbell and artist Bibbe Hanson, who worked alongside Andy Warhol, took inspiration for his album covers from his parents. Hanson, who worked at Andy Warhol's factory in uptown Manhattan, spoke about the Zen and Buddhist influence behind the factory, “You can’t really understand Andy Warhol or any of these people—John Cage or any of them—without understanding Zen,” said Bibbe Hansen. This art style was said to have inspired Beck’s albums, especially Midnight Vultures. 

Although Beck lived in Los Angeles in a predominantly Hispanic neighborhood, he spent some years in New York embracing the anti-folk and alternative rock scene. Unlike his mother, he didn’t break into the scene in New York and returned to Los Angeles to pursue music and immerse himself in the power-pop culture. During this time, he continued to play clubs and was discovered by an independent label, Geffen, allowing him to produce the album “Mellow Gold.” 

My appreciation towards Beck stems from the duality of his music and the success of finding a new sound within each album. “Midnight Vultures,” which was released in 1999, mixes electronic, rock, pop, and funk, resulting in such a unique sound. One of my favorite songs from the album continues to be “Debra.” The quirky lyrics make me laugh every time. 

“I met you at JC Penney’s/ I think your name tag said Jenny!/ I cold-step to you with a fresh pack of gum/ Somehow I knew you were looking for some… oh no! / Like a fruit that's ripe for the picking/ I wouldn’t do you like that Zankou Chicken.” For Los Angeles natives, shouting out to the popular food chain is an ode to the culture and pays tribute to their roots.

Beck continued to produce multiple albums, one of which is called “Hyperspace,” which was produced with Pharell Williams. He later collaborated with Jenny Lewis and Cage the Elephant on songs such as “Night Running.” Later, he worked on “ Valley of the Pigeons” with one of my favorite bands, The Gorillaz. I also recommend listening to his rendition of the Bob Dylan song “ Old Man,” which was one of his current releases. Although Beck may be an overall “cool guy,” he is an artist who deserves the recognition he gets.