The Big Lebowski’s Iconic Song: The Story Behind ‘Dead Flowers’

An exploration of the iconic song “Dead Flowers” in the film “The Big Lebowski” reveals interesting facts about its origins, licensing, and significance in the movie. Originally written and recorded by The Rolling Stones, the version used in the film is a cover by Townes Van Zandt. This article delves into the history of the song, the licensing process, and the role of T Bone Burnett as the musical archivist and producer for the film’s soundtrack.

1. The Rolling Stones: “Dead Flowers” and “Sticky Fingers”

• The origins of “Dead Flowers” as a song written and recorded by The Rolling Stones.
• Its inclusion in their 1971 album “Sticky Fingers” and its reception.

2. Townes Van Zandt’s Cover in “The Big Lebowski”

• The use of Townes Van Zandt’s cover of “Dead Flowers” in the film.
• The impact of this version on the movie’s atmosphere and storytelling.

3. Licensing Challenges and Allen Klein

• The Coen brothers’ need for licensing the song for the movie.
• Approaching Allen Klein, the former manager of The Rolling Stones, for permission.
• The initial licensing fee requested by Klein and its significance.

4. The Waived Licensing Fee

• Klein’s change of heart regarding the licensing fee.
• The influence of the line, “I hate the fuckin’ Eagles, man!” in Klein’s decision.
• The story behind Klein’s decision to waive the entire fee.

5. T Bone Burnett: The Musical Archivist

• T Bone Burnett’s role as the musical archivist and producer for “The Big Lebowski.”
• Securing the rights to various songs, including “Dead Flowers.”
• Burnett’s contribution to the film’s soundtrack and overall musical atmosphere.

Conclusion

“Dead Flowers” holds a significant place in the film “The Big Lebowski,” both in terms of its original Rolling Stones version and Townes Van Zandt’s cover. The licensing challenges and Allen Klein’s decision to waive the fee add an intriguing layer to the song’s presence in the movie. T Bone Burnett’s role as the musical archivist further highlights the importance of “Dead Flowers” and the soundtrack in creating the film’s unique atmosphere.

Sources:

1. Inside the Dude’s Stoner Soundtrack. Rolling Stone. Retrieved from https://www.rollingstone.com/music/music-news/inside-the-dudes-stoner-soundtrack-187983/
2. The hilarious connection between The Rolling Stones and ‘The Big Lebowski’. Far Out Magazine. Retrieved from https://faroutmagazine.co.uk/the-hilarious-connection-between-the-rolling-stones-and-the-big-lebowski/
3. Re: Dead flowers…big lebowski. iorr.org. Retrieved from https://iorr.org/talk/read.php?1,2500535,2500535

FAQs

Who sings “Dead Flowers” in The Big Lebowski?

In the film “The Big Lebowski,” the version of “Dead Flowers” is performed by Townes Van Zandt. It is a cover of the original song by The Rolling Stones.

Is “Dead Flowers” originally by The Rolling Stones?

Yes, “Dead Flowers” was originally written and recorded by The Rolling Stones. It was included in their 1971 album “Sticky Fingers.”

Why was Townes Van Zandt’s cover chosen for the film?

Townes Van Zandt’s cover of “Dead Flowers” was chosen for its unique interpretation and fit with the atmosphere and storytelling of “The Big Lebowski.” The filmmakers felt that Van Zandt’s version captured the essence of the character ‘The Dude’ and added depth to the movie.

How did the licensing process for “Dead Flowers” work?

The Coen brothers, the directors of “The Big Lebowski,” needed to obtain the licensing rights for “Dead Flowers” to use it in the film. They approached Allen Klein, the former manager of The Rolling Stones, for permission to use the song.

What was the initial licensing fee requested by Allen Klein?

The initial licensing fee requested by Allen Klein for the use of “Dead Flowers” in the movie was significant. However, the specific details of the fee are not mentioned in the available sources.

Why did Allen Klein waive the licensing fee?

Allen Klein,the former manager of The Rolling Stones, ultimately decided to waive the entire licensing fee for “Dead Flowers” in “The Big Lebowski.” It is believed that Klein’s decision was influenced by the line in the movie, “I hate the fuckin’ Eagles, man!” which resonated with his own sentiments towards the Eagles, a band he had a contentious relationship with.

Who is T Bone Burnett and what was his role in the film’s soundtrack?

T Bone Burnett is a renowned musician, songwriter, and producer. In the film “The Big Lebowski,” Burnett served as the musical archivist and producer for the soundtrack. His role involved securing the rights to various songs, including “Dead Flowers,” and curating the overall musical atmosphere of the film.

How did “Dead Flowers” contribute to the atmosphere of “The Big Lebowski”?

“Dead Flowers,” both in its original Rolling Stones version and Townes Van Zandt’s cover, played a significant role in establishing the atmosphere of “The Big Lebowski.” The song’s lyrics and sound added a layer of melancholy and reflection to the movie, enhancing the character development and overall narrative.